Afghan Women and Girl's Survival Fund

Since August 2021, the Taliban have imposed laws and policies denying Afghan women and girls their fundamental rights simply because of their gender. Human rights mechanisms have determined that these actions constitute gender persecution, with the Georgetown Journal of International Affairs deeming it “the most serious human rights crisis in the world.”

In response, MADRE directly supports Afghan refugees to seek justice, ensuring they reach international human-rights spaces. In June and September 2025, a delegation of Afghan women’s and LGBTQIA+ human rights defenders, led by MADRE partners, travelled to Geneva to amplify calls for justice, protection, and meaningful accountability at the United Nations Human Rights Council. In addition to providing travel, accommodation, and accompaniment for the delegation, MADRE secured support from international human rights monitors to pressure governments into meeting the needs of those impacted by Taliban crimes.

At the local level, through community councils and education programs, MADRE and our partners continue to create spaces for Afghan women and girls to gather –– in bold defiance of the Taliban’s bans –– to discuss community concerns and formulate a human rights agenda rooted in their lived realities. Thank you for your support of this vital work!