Afghan women artists empower resistance against Taliban restrictions

Afghan women artists are playing a crucial role in the resistance movement against Taliban abuses, using their art to challenge the ruling regime.

Human Rights Watch highlighted their contributions in a new feature, emphasizing how these artists voice their beliefs with creativity, passion, and resilience.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, Afghan women have faced severe restrictions on education, employment, freedom of movement, and expression. Despite these challenges, women artists continue to create work that highlights the struggles and resilience of Afghan women and girls.

The featured artists, now in exile, use their art to amplify the voices of those still under Taliban rule. Their work provides solidarity and hope to Afghan women, many of whom no longer have access to art and creative expression due to the regime’s bans.