WAS Condemns Violations of Women’s and Girls’ Rights in Afghanistan

WAS condemns recent Taliban laws in Afghanistan that violate the human and sexual rights of women and girls. Read our full statement.

View this email in your browser Dear WAS Members and Friends,  As we approach World Sexual Health Day (WSHD) 2024, we're reminded of the vital importance of our collective efforts in promoting Sexual Health and Rights globally. In light of recent events, WAS has issued a strong statement condemning the violation of human and sexual rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.    Statement by the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) on the Violation of Human and Sexual Rights of Women and Girls in Afghanistan The World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) strongly condemns the recent 'Law on Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice' enacted by the Taliban in Afghanistan, which violates the fundamental human and sexual rights of women and girls.  This decree extends severe restrictions on women's autonomy and freedom of expression as well as their right to gender equality. It imposes mandatory dress codes that require women to fully cover their bodies and faces in public. It also forbids women from freely using their voices in public.    Sexual rights are human rights. Every individual, regardless of gender, has the right to make personal decisions about their own body and live free from violence and discrimination. The recent developments in Taliban Afghanistan undermine these rights and threaten the progress made in advancing gender equality and sexual health globally.   The WAS Declaration on Sexual Rights (2014) states that "equality and nondiscrimination are foundational to all human rights protection and promotion" and prohibits any distinction based on race, ethnicity, sex, religion, or other status. It also declares that "everyone has the right to control and decide freely on matters related to their sexuality and body".     WAS calls on the international community to stand in solidarity with Afghan women and girls and take immediate action to protect their rights. WAS urges the Afghan government to repeal these oppressive laws and to uphold its obligations under international human rights treaties. Women's rights are non-negotiable, and essential to the well-being of society.   WAS remains committed to advocating for the sexual rights of all people and will continue to work tirelessly to support those whose rights are under threat.   Read the Full Statement on our Website Thank you for being a valued member of our community and for your ongoing dedication to promoting Sexual Health and Rights worldwide. Warm regards, The World Association for Sexual Health As we conclude, please remember to mark your calendars for these important upcoming WAS events: World Sexual Health Day on September 4, 2024. Join us as we celebrate and advocate for Sexual Health and Rights across the globe. The 27th Congress of the World Association for Sexual Health will be held in Brisbane, Australia, from June 16-19, 2025. We are now calling for Abstract Submissions.  Click here to visit the WAS website Not on our our mailing list yet? Sign up here! Copyright © 2024 World Association for Sexual Health (WAS), All rights reserved. You are receiving this newsletter because you have previously expressed interest in our content by opting in on our website or through participation in one of our online events, such as our monthly webinars. We're committed to keeping you informed with the latest updates and insights. Our mailing address is: World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) 1300 South 2nd Street Suite 180 West Bank Office Building Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.