Afghan Women's Team Calls for Global Support

The exiled Afghanistan Women's National Football Team is calling for international solidarity as they continue to be barred from competing in World Cup qualifiers due to the Taliban's oppressive regime. The Taliban's control over the Afghan Football Federation, citing adherence to their interpretation of Islamic law, has led to the exclusion of women from sports. FIFA has been criticized for its slow response, although it has recently pledged support for the team by organizing training camps and coordinating friendly matches. Despite FIFA's promises, the team missed the chance to participate in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup qualifiers, affecting their World Cup and Olympic prospects. The UN special rapporteur and various human rights organizations have urged FIFA to take a firm stand against gender oppression and support Afghan women footballers in exile. Afghan team members emphasize the importance of global unity and call for athletes worldwide to use their platforms to advocate for gender equality in sports and beyond.