The United Nations has backed calls for FIFA to take decisive action against the ongoing gender oppression faced by Afghanistan’s women’s national football team. The team has been excluded from international competitions since the Taliban takeover in 2021, which led to a ban on women participating in sports by the country's football authorities.

The appeal comes amid growing pressure from human rights organisations and sports bodies demanding that FIFA address the systematic exclusion of Afghan women athletes from the global football arena.

 

Global Support for Afghan Women Athletes

Since the Taliban’s return to power, many members of Afghanistan’s women’s football team were forced to flee the country over fears of persecution. The team has not been able to compete internationally due to FIFA’s requirement for teams to be recognised by their national federation — a condition that cannot be met under the current Taliban-controlled Afghan Football Federation, which enforces the ban.

International sports bodies and the Sports & Rights Alliance have urged athletes, organisations, and FIFA to support Afghan women footballers' right to return to international competition and fight against gender-based discrimination in sport.

 

UN’s Stance on Gender Oppression

The UN special rapporteur on Afghanistan has expressed support for Afghan women footballers, calling for a strong stand against gender oppression in Afghanistan’s sports system. The official stressed the importance of global solidarity to ensure that the affected athletes can reclaim their right to participate in international sporting events.

The situation has sparked broader discussions around gender equality in sports and the responsibility of international governing bodies to uphold human rights and fair play.

 

Background

Before the regime change, Afghanistan had a growing women’s football program, with over 25 contracted players. Following the Taliban’s return, most of these players sought refuge abroad, with many now residing in Australia.

The global sporting community continues to advocate for a pathway that would allow Afghan women athletes to safely and fairly participate in international competitions without facing discrimination from local political regimes.

 

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