Although Islamic jurisprudence and religious teachings emphasize the human dignity and rights of women with disabilities, the experiences shared by some of these women show that they continue to face challenges in various aspects of life, including education, employment, access to services, and, in some cases, inheritance-related issues. Religious scholars and legal experts say that expanding support services and raising awareness among families and the society could help improve their situation and create greater opportunities for them.
Mah Jan Ghani, a resident of Jurm district in Badakhshan who has a physical disability affecting her back and legs, says her disability has affected many aspects of her life and that she has sometimes faced irresponsible treatment from others.
“My disability has had a major impact on my daily life, and I have faced many problems. I hope more opportunities will be created to support us and enable us to participate actively in society,” she says.
Aziza Seddiqi, another woman with a disability from Bamyan whose disability affects one of her hands, also says it has affected many aspects of her life. According to her, access to education, employment opportunities, and some services has been among the main challenges she has faced.
“My disability has made it more difficult to travel, carry out some daily tasks, and participate in social activities, but I have always tried to remain independent. Sometimes, I have felt that I have not been provided with adequate equal opportunities,” she adds.
Lailuma Mohammadi, another woman with a disability from Jawzjan, says she has been treated differently since she was in school.
“During the division of the inheritance, it was initially suggested that I did not need to receive a share. Although the matter was later pursued, that experience was not based on Islamic guidelines,” she says.
According to Islamic jurisprudence, women with disabilities are entitled to rights including the preservation of their human dignity, equal opportunities, access to education, healthcare and rehabilitation services, participation in social and cultural activities, and other fundamental rights.
Mohammad Akbar Gojarwal, a legal expert, says that under Islamic jurisprudence, women with disabilities have human dignity and religious rights, and that disability alone does not limit those rights.
According to him, a number of international documents also emphasize ensuring that people with disabilities can enjoy their fundamental rights and equal opportunities.
“Based on Islamic teachings, Islamic jurisprudence recognizes the dignity and respect of people with disabilities and emphasizes supporting their rights,” he adds.
Asiya Amani, a legal expert, also says that women with disabilities enjoy the same legal and religious rights as others and that, if disputes arise, they may pursue their claims through legal and religious channels.
“In matters such as inheritance, property, marriage, and other legal issues, women with disabilities may refer their cases to the relevant authorities for review and resolution when disputes arise,” she says.
Meanwhile, some experts say that because some women with disabilities face hardships in their lives, they may need greater social and psychological support. Abdulqadeer Buran, a psychologist, says,
“Family support, the provision of appropriate opportunities, and access to counseling services can play an important role in improving the mental well-being of women with disabilities.”
Religious scholars also emphasize that Islam grants women with disabilities the same dignity and rights as other people. Mohammad Yousuf Saqeb, a religious scholar, says,
“Islam grants women with disabilities the same dignity, rights, and respect as other people. In Islam, superiority is not determined by physical strength, ability, or health; rather, faith and piety are the criteria for superiority.”
On the other hand, officials from the Badakhshan Department of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs say that support programs and cash assistance have been considered for people with disabilities. Noor Ahmad Ahmadi, Director of the Badakhshan Department of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs, says,
“Cash assistance is provided to people with disabilities in accordance with the relevant procedures and is distributed periodically. The Islamic Emirate, particularly the Ministry of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs and the Badakhshan Department of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs, provides monthly assistance of between 2,000 and 10,000 Afghanis, which is paid quarterly.”
The women with disabilities interviewed for this report have shared some of their experiences and daily challenges. Experts say that increasing public awareness, expanding support services, and ensuring better implementation of rights guaranteed under Islamic teachings and the law could help address these challenges.
Estimates published by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also indicate that a significant number of persons with disabilities live in Afghanistan.
Reporter: Raqiba Hamidi
