Afghan Woman Forced into Child Marriage at 10, Faces Taliban Oppression and Abuse

Mahtab Eftekhar, a 26-year-old Afghan woman, has endured a harrowing journey of forced child marriage, abuse, loss, and oppression under Taliban rule. At the tender age of 10, Mahtab was married off without her knowledge or consent, becoming a mother just two years later.

Tragically, Mahtab's first two daughters died due to neglect and lack of medical care. Seeking a better life, she moved to Kabul and opened a beauty parlor. However, when the Taliban regained power in 2021, they closed her business, stripping away her means of independence and livelihood.

Mahtab's personal life was marred by relentless abuse from her husband. Desperate to escape the cycle of violence, she sought a divorce, but her family and husband threatened to take away her children and even kill her. In a courageous attempt to reunite with her children, Mahtab traveled to Helmand alone, only to face brutal beatings and verbal abuse from the Taliban for daring to travel unaccompanied.

Why this matters: Mahtab's story is a sobering reminder of the ongoing oppression and violence faced by women in Afghanistan, particularly under the Taliban's oppressive rule. Her experiences emphasize the urgent need for international attention and action to protect the rights and well-being of Afghan women and girls.

Mahtab's ordeal is a testament to the resilience and courage of Afghan women who continue to fight for their basic rights and freedoms in the face of unimaginable adversity. "I have suffered so much in my life, but I will not give up on my children or my dreams," Mahtab said, her voice filled with determination.

Key Takeaways

• Mahtab, 26, was forced into child marriage at 10, lost 2 daughters
• Opened a beauty parlor, but Taliban shut it down in 2021
• Endured relentless abuse from husband, sought divorce but faced threats
• Beaten by Taliban for traveling alone to reunite with children
• Mahtab's story highlights ongoing oppression of Afghan women under Taliban