On May 30, 2026, the Women's Justice Movement organized an online panel discussion titled “Child Marriage: A Clear Violation of Children's Rights and a Serious Threat to the Future of Afghan Girls.” The event brought together women's rights advocates, experts, and professionals to examine the legal, social, and human consequences of the Taliban’s policies that normalize and legitimize child marriage in Afghanistan.

During the discussion, speakers emphasized that child marriage constitutes one of the most severe violations of children's rights, particularly the rights of girls. Participants highlighted that the Taliban’s efforts to institutionalize this practice not only destroy the lives and futures of thousands of girls but also deepen cycles of poverty, violence, educational deprivation, and social inequality.

Ms. Khadija Amin, President of the Hope for Freedom Association, addressed the devastating impact of child marriage on girls’ access to education, personal development, and meaningful participation in society. She stressed the urgent need for stronger international action to confront this growing crisis.

Dr. Batool Haidari, a specialist in General Psychology, discussed the psychological consequences of early and forced marriage, emphasizing the long-term mental health challenges and social harms faced by girls subjected to such practices.

Nazifa Jalali, Head of the Dialogue Center and a member of the +HRD Strategic Committee, analyzed the issue from a human rights perspective. She described child marriage as a clear manifestation of structural discrimination against women and girls and expressed concern over the continued silence of parts of the international community regarding this ongoing violation.

The discussion was moderated by Hoda Khamosh and provided an important platform for open dialogue on the consequences of Taliban policies, the protection of children's rights, and the responsibilities of the international community toward Afghan girls.

The Women's Justice Movement reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan and called for concrete and effective measures to prevent child marriage and protect the fundamental rights and dignity of all children.