The underreporting of sexual violence remains a concern in Afghanistan, stemming from an overall situation of gender-based inequality, discriminatory social norms and stigmatization, which prevent women and girls from accessing information or services. This is exacerbated by a climate of impunity, widespread violence and limited access to areas under the control of armed groups. In , the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan UNAMA documented cases of sexual violence, 27 of which were able to be verified as conflict-related, affecting 7 women, 7 girls and 13 boys. Those incidents were attributed to members of the Taliban.
The sex scandal at the heart of the Afghan government - BBC News
All rights reserved. Fourteen-year-old Ali was raised as a boy in a practice known in Afghanistan as bacha posh. Ali's sisters stand behind her in the room they share. Throughout history, women have disguised themselves as men to navigate entrenched social roles. They have dressed as men to fight wars , join religious orders, or prosper professionally. In Afghanistan, some families raise their daughters as sons to provide them with a better life.
The sex scandal at the heart of the Afghan government
In the Afghan government introduced a new Criminal Code explicitly addressing the under-reported issue of bacha bazi. The practice involves older men taking advantage of young boys in vulnerable situations and has increased since the fall of the Taliban regime. Although introducing new laws banning bacha bazi is a welcome move, the issue extends far beyond national laws.
Women's rights in Afghanistan have been varied throughout history. Women officially gained equality under the constitution. Especially during the latter's rule, women had very little to no freedom, specifically in terms of civil liberties.