Women in War: The Impact of the War on Afghan Women and Their Evolving Roles

Afghan society, shaped by centuries of tradition, tribal customs, and waves of foreign influence, has historically positioned women within a framework defined by family, honor, and patriarchy. Before the eruption of continuous conflict in the late 20th century, Afghan women’s roles varied widely depending on their geographic location, social class, and ethnic background. In rural areas, women’s lives were largely confined to the domestic sphere, their activities closely regulated by tribal norms and Islamic practices interpreted through a conservative lens. In contrast, urban centers like Kabul offered a glimpse of a more progressive vision. During the mid-20th century, particularly under King Zahir Shah and the subsequent republican period in the 1970s, women in the capital and other cities began to experience increased access to education, employment, and political participation.

Education for women, though limited and largely dependent on location and family support, began to expand in the 1950s and 60s. Kabul University opened its doors to female students, and a growing number of women joined the workforce as teachers, nurses, and civil servants. These changes, while significant, were often seen as part of a broader modernization effort led by a relatively small urban elite. For the majority of Afghan women, especially in conservative tribal regions, traditional roles remained deeply entrenched, with girls marrying young and being expected to dedicate their lives to domestic responsibilities.