Ban On Women's Education In Medical Institutes Horrific Violation Of Human Rights, Says EU

The European Union called the Taliban's decision to ban the education of women and girls in medical institutions a "horrific violation" of basic human rights and an unjustifiable attack on the education of Afghan women.

The EU called on the Taliban to abandon this "discriminatory policy" and adhere to its commitments.

In a statement on Wednesday, the European Union expressed grave concern over the Taliban's decision and its far-reaching consequences, including the deepening of the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and the exacerbation of the suffering of the people.

The statement said in part that the Taliban had ordered all private and public educational institutions in Afghanistan to suspend medical education for women and girls.

"We call on the Taliban to reverse this discriminatory policy and abide by their obligations under international law, including ensuring equal access to education and basic health care for all Afghans," the EU said.

The EU has stressed that it is committed to supporting women and girls and all those whose rights are constantly violated in Afghanistan.

Women's participation in education and the workforce is not just an issue of equality, but essential for the self-sufficiency, development and prosperity of any nation, the union statement said.

The Taliban's ban on the education of women and girls in medical institutions has sparked widespread reactions.

Human rights organisations and human rights defenders have condemned the Taliban's move and called on the group to provide education for women and girls.

The Taliban has not yet officially commented on the reason for the ban.

The Taliban has imposed severe restrictions on women over the past three years. The Taliban has closed girls' schools above the sixth grade and banned girls from going to university. The group also prohibits women from going to parks and restaurants, traveling, exercising, as well as working in non-governmental organisations.

International human rights organisations say that the Taliban has established "gender apartheid" by excluding women from society.