My name is Vanshika, and I am starting this petition to raise awareness about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan. Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, women and girls have faced severe restrictions on their education, employment, freedom of movement, and participation in public life.

For millions of Afghan girls, education has been taken away from them. Girls are currently prevented from continuing formal education beyond Grade 6, while women are also excluded from universities. According to UNICEF, more than 2.6 million girls have been denied secondary education since 2021. Behind these numbers are real girls who are being denied the opportunity to learn, build careers, follow their dreams, and shape their own futures.

Women also face restrictions on employment and participation in public life. These restrictions affect not only women themselves, but also their families and communities. Women work as teachers, healthcare workers, and professionals, and limiting their ability to work can also affect essential services that many people depend on.

I believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to receive an education, dream about her future, and decide what she wants to achieve in life. Every woman deserves to live with dignity, have opportunities to work, and be able to contribute to her family and society.

Through this petition, I want to bring greater attention to the restrictions faced by Afghan women and girls and encourage meaningful action to protect their fundamental rights. I am calling for greater access to education, employment, healthcare, and participation in public life.

If you believe that women and girls deserve the freedom to learn, work, and build their futures, please sign this petition and help me raise awareness about their situation. Every signature can help bring greater attention to their voices and the importance of protecting their rights.