HOVIAT – Women’s Identity, an independent, people-centered, non-profit, and volunteer-based organization dedicated to the protection of human rights, advocacy, and the empowerment of Afghan women, is following with profound concern the reports regarding internet shutdowns and restrictions in various provinces of Afghanistan.

For the women and girls of Afghanistan, the internet is not merely a communication tool; it is the last remaining gateway to education, empowerment, social participation, and advocacy. Any restriction on access to the internet constitutes a clear violation of their fundamental rights, particularly at a time when women have already been deprived of access to in-person education. Internet shutdowns not only undermine freedom of expression and the right to access information, but also weaken equal opportunities and contribute to the gradual erasure and marginalization of Afghan women.

This measure comes as part of a prolonged pattern of violations of women’s fundamental rights and represents yet another clear manifestation of gender apartheid targeting millions of Afghan women.

The consequences of this crisis are far-reaching: social isolation, deepening illiteracy, expanding deprivation, threats to the mental well-being of millions of women, the severing of their connection with the world, and the further darkening of Afghanistan’s future. Undoubtedly, these developments will also have direct and indirect implications for neighboring countries and the broader international community.

According to internationally recognized human rights principles and obligations, the rights to education, freedom of expression, and access to information are among the cornerstones of fundamental human rights. At a time when Afghan women face extensive restrictions on in-person education, imposing internet limitations effectively blocks the remaining avenues for learning and empowerment. Such actions will inevitably lead to greater isolation, increased illiteracy, wider deprivation, and the erosion of equal opportunities.

HOVIAT emphasizes the urgent need for safe, free, and reliable access to the internet and calls upon all relevant international institutions, human rights organizations, and civil society networks to:

• Support the legitimate voices of the people and women of Afghanistan through diplomatic pressure and the use of legal and media mechanisms;
• Defend the right to education in accordance with international principles and standards;
• Advocate for internet access and use as a fundamental human right;
• Take immediate action to prevent the psychological and social crisis resulting from the isolation and disconnection of millions of Afghan women.

HOVIAT remains committed to advancing the empowerment, education, and awareness of Afghan women through its humanitarian, social, and academic values. Relying on volunteer efforts and digital capacities, the organization will continue its mission despite the many challenges that exist.

Respectfully,

Leadership Board
HOVIAT – Women’s Identity