Kabul, Afghanistan – November 13, 2025 – Afghan women forcibly deported from European nations are facing heightened fear and anxiety upon their return too Afghanistan under Taliban rule, according to a report published today by Inter Press Service via Global Issues. The deportations, occurring despite documented risks of persecution, leave returnees vulnerable to violence, restricted freedoms, and limited access to essential services.
Since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, Afghanistan has seen a dramatic rollback of women’s rights, including bans on education beyond sixth grade, employment in most sectors, and restrictions on movement. International human rights organizations have repeatedly warned against the deportation of Afghan women to the country, citing credible fears of persecution based on gender.
The report details accounts from deported women who describe a climate of pervasive fear and uncertainty. Many report losing their jobs, facing social stigma, and fearing for their safety and the safety of their families. Access to healthcare, legal recourse, and even basic necessities are severely limited.
“We are witnessing a collective punishment of Afghan women by countries that claim to uphold human rights,” said a representative from a women’s rights association working in Afghanistan, whose name was withheld for security reasons. “these deportations are not just a violation of international law, they are a betrayal of the promises made to these women.”
The situation is further compounded by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan,with millions facing food insecurity and limited access to essential services. The international community continues to grapple with how to engage with the Taliban regime while upholding its commitments to human rights and protecting vulnerable populations. The forced return of Afghan women underscores the urgent need for a reassessment of deportation policies and increased support for women and girls in Afghanistan.
