Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai has strongly criticised the European Union’s decision to invite Taliban officials to Brussels for migration talks, warning that the move could give legitimacy to a regime that continues to impose severe restrictions on Afghan women and girls.
Taking to Instagram, Malala shared a powerful video message in which she expressed her disappointment over the development and urged world leaders not to overlook the ongoing human rights situation in Afghanistan.
“The EU has invited Taliban officials to Brussels to discuss a migration deal and today I am shaken and deeply disturbed by this,” Malala said.
“The same Taliban banned girls from secondary schools and forced them into marriage. The same Taliban that, earlier this month, arrested dozens of women in Herat for how they were dressed,” she said.
Malala also highlighted the difficulties faced by women who speak out against the regime, saying many continue to face intimidation, detention, and violence.
She described the situation as a form of “gender apartheid,” arguing that women and girls have effectively been pushed out of public life.
Calling on European leaders to reconsider their approach, Malala stressed that any discussions with the Taliban should prioritise the rights and freedoms of Afghan women and girls.
“Europe must not legitimise a regime responsible for one of the worst human rights crises in the world,” she said.
Her remarks quickly sparked discussion online, with many supporters praising her for continuing to speak out on behalf of Afghan women and girls.