“Afghanistan’s women do not only fear these oppressive laws, they also fear their capricious application,” Ms. Bahous said. “A life lived in such circumstances is truly incomprehensible.”

The Executive Director also mentioned continued restrictions on women’s education, noting that only Afghan boys remain in school and receive an education based on a curriculum whose details are only known by the Taliban.

‘We must listen to the girls in Afghanistan’

Also briefing the Council, a 21-year-old Afghan girl referred to as Mina who no longer resides in the country explained that action needs to be taken now to address restrictions imposed on women by the de facto authorities.

She shared her concerns that the next generation of Afghan girls would believe they are not worthy of an education.

“We must listen to the girls in Afghanistan and do anything we can to stop this oppression,” she said.

Briefers call on Council to act now

UN Women chief Bahous and other briefers called on the 15-member Council for action to be taken to defend women and other civilians in Afghanistan.

“We can decide now to put our political will and resources behind our solidarity with Afghan women,” she said.

“I implore you again not only to stay this course but to commit to it with renewed determination.”