THE IMPACT OF THE TALIBAN’S POLICIES ON AFGHAN WOMEN’S MORTALITY

• FAIZA SAEEDI, Women and Gender Studies, University of Delaware

• Patricia Sloane-White, Woman and gender Studies, University of Delaware

Abstract

The return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan has raised concerns regarding the impact of Taliban policies on women’s health and mortality. The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of the Taliban’s policies on Afghan women’s health and mortality by examining data from the previous Taliban regime and assessing the current health situation under Taliban governance. Using a mixed-method approach, this study will collect comprehensive insights through existing data analysis and interviews. The study focuses on three key policies that impact women’s mortality in Afghanistan: restrictions on education, healthcare policies, and lack of legal protection. These policies will be analyzed for their impacts, supported by examples and data. The expected results will provide a detailed understanding of the current situation, offering valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers to mitigate negative outcomes. As an Afghan girl, the current situation in Afghanistan and my majors in public policy and women and gender studies motivated me to undertake this research with my mentor, Patricia Sloane-White, at the University of Delaware. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect and improve the health and well-being of Afghan women in the face of restrictive Taliban policies.