In solidarity with the people of the neighboring country, Afghanistan, especially women, whom we have a mutual history, language, and culture

We, women of Iran who have been engaged in the continued battle against the Islamic regime that has ruled our country for over 4 decades are well aware of the consequences of the Islamic fundamentalists’ rule in Afghanistan.

During the past two decades since the Taliban were ousted from power in Afghanistan, women under the relative security and the support of the western governments had the opportunity to gain access to education, work, and participate and have a presence in the political, cultural, and social arenas. Women found a voice in the media and were seen in international gatherings. The neighboring countries, especially us Iranians followed these developments with admiration and hoped that Afghan women could join hands with other women in the region towards further progress and prosperity.

Sadly, with the withdrawal of the foreign forces and rapid collapse of the government, and the Taliban take over for the second time, it seems that it was “much ado about nothing”. The state apparatus collapsed without much effort, leaving the people, especially women to fend for themselves. No one knows what the future holds for Afghan women. It is unbelievably painful to witness these dark days.

The Campaign to Stop Honor Killings in Iran, knowing very well what the future might hold for women and girls in Afghanistan is declaring its unconditional support to our Afghan sisters. Our surveys on the root causes of honor killings show that the deep-rooted religious, tribal, and ethnic beliefs play a major role in subjugating women and in many instances murdering them with impunity.

We are in solidarity with our Afghan sisters and will cooperate in any way and use our gained knowledge to uproot the Islamic fundamentalism as well as ethnic and tribal beliefs of subjugating women.

Sisters in Afghanistan; we are concerned for your safety and your future. We are with you in every step and will not leave you alone in these dark days of your history.

Campaign to Stop Honor Killings in Iran