The International Cricket Council (ICC) faces pressure from Human Rights Watch to suspend Afghanistan’s membership due to the Taliban’s oppressive ban on female participation in cricket. With the men’s Champions Trophy slated for March 2025 in Dubai, the call for action grows louder. Since the Taliban regained power in August 2021, they have systematically excluded women and girls from all sporting activities, forcing many athletes into hiding or exile while the men’s team continues to compete internationally.
Minky Worden, director of global initiatives at Human Rights Watch, expressed concern over the ICC’s inaction towards the blatant human rights violations against Afghan women. The Taliban have dismantled opportunities for women in education and athletics, closing sports venues and threatening female athletes. Those who could leave are attempting to start anew abroad, while others remain trapped, destroying evidence of their athletic endeavors.
In stark contrast, the International Olympic Committee has recognised Afghan women athletes in exile, supporting their participation in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Afghan players abroad are resilient, exemplified when co-captain Firooza Amiri stated that their team represents “millions of women in Afghanistan denied their rights.” The ICC’s anti-discrimination policy obliges all member countries to acknowledge women’s teams, yet Afghanistan has failed to comply since the Taliban’s dominance.
Shabnam Ahsan, a cricket player, articulated the frustration shared by many: “It’s so painful and so disappointing. We have worked so hard, and we deserve help.” To underscore their commitment to equality, the ICC is urged to implement a human rights policy aligned with United Nations standards, which includes suspending Afghanistan’s men’s team until women’s cricket is reinstated, supporting women players in exile, and requiring sponsors to adhere to gender equality principles.
As cricket prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the message is clear: sponsors and governing bodies must confront the Taliban’s gender discrimination and uphold the integrity of sports worldwide.
Human Rights Watch urges the International Cricket Council to suspend Afghanistan’s membership until women can participate in cricket, due to the Taliban’s ban on female athletes since August 2021. Advocates stress the plight of women athletes, emphasizing the need for the ICC to uphold its anti-discrimination policies and support gender equality in cricket, especially with events like the 2028 Olympics on the horizon.
In summary, the call by Human Rights Watch for the ICC to suspend Afghanistan’s membership highlights the urgent need for action addressing the Taliban’s oppressive policies against women in sports. The ongoing silence and inaction from the ICC create a stark contrast to the advancements recognised by the International Olympic Committee for athletes in exile. The ICC must adhere to its principles and support gender equality within the sport to ensure that athletes, regardless of gender, can thrive and compete.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
