GENEVA: Restrictions imposed by the Taliban (under United Nations sanctions over terrorism) on women's education and work, as well as the dire socioeconomic situation, have led to an increase in the number of suicides and attempted suicides in Afghanistan, especially among women, UN (United Nations) Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, said yesterday (September 11), reported Sputnik.
Bennett added that 60,000 Afghan women lost their jobs due to the ban on beauty salons in the country.
The group has slashed women's rights to travel, study and work since it took control of Afghanistan in August 2021 after the withdrawal of international troops and the collapse of the US-backed government.
Late last year, the Taliban banned girls and women from attending secondary schools and higher education institutions. The move faced international backlash, with many countries and the United Nations urging the Afghan authorities to lift the restrictions on women's rights. – Bernama
If you are feeling depressed or stressed, know that help is available. All you have to do is reach out. The Befrienders is an example of a place you can call if you have suicidal thoughts or feeling overwhelmed. They provide emotional support 24/7. For more info, visit www.befrienders.org.my or contact 03-76272929.
You can also contact Talian Kasih at 15999 (24/7), BuddyBear Helpline at 1800-18-2327 (BEAR) (daily 12pm to 12am), Mental Illness Awareness & Support Association (MIASA) at 1-800-820 066 (24/7), and the Health Ministry - Mercy Malaysia Psychosocial Support Helpline at 03-2935 9935.