During a period when women were already prohibited from attending educational institutions, Radio Femme was instrumental in offering alternative educational opportunities. It provided a unique platform for women and girls to pursue their studies, featuring eight teachers covering subjects like math and science. However, on September 30, the Taliban authorities abruptly cut off internet and phone networks across Afghanistan, silencing Radio Femme without prior notice.
A UN Women team is evaluating earthquake damage in Nurgal, one of the hardest-hit areas in Kunar province, northeastern Afghanistan.
The temporary shutdown of the radio station highlights the broader impact of the nationwide internet blackout on women. This blackout, coupled with the aftermath of an eastern earthquake, a persistent drought in the north, and the return of numerous refugees from neighboring countries, has intensified hardships for women and girls in Afghanistan.
“It is another crisis on top of the existing crisis. It is utterly unnecessary for this kind of interruption to take place, and the impact is going to be on the lives of Afghan people,” stated Arafat Jamal, country representative for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).
Why the Internet is Essential for Women
In a conversation with UN Women, individuals like Sama discussed how the internet offers a vital space for work, entrepreneurship, and commerce. “Through my online shop, I became well known,” she said. “I’m earning money, solving my financial problems, and becoming self-sufficient.”
However, the blackout eradicated Sama’s sole income source overnight, impacting many women similarly. According to UN Women, women and girls in Afghanistan bear the brunt of these internet and phone blackouts.
“It eliminates what is, for many, a final means of learning, earning, and connecting.”
Although internet access has largely been restored in Afghanistan, the incident underscored a troubling reality: this crucial gateway for women and girls can be closed at any moment, highlighting that the digital space is not impartial, said UN Women.
According to the agency, women’s education, mental health, and livelihoods are at significant risk.
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