Impact of political transitions on women’s rights in Afghanistan in the post cold war era

Over the past few decades, especially after the Cold War, Afghanistan has undergone substantial political upheaval, encompassing the Soviet occupation, transition to democracy, and the rule of the new Taliban regime, which has led to an impoverished autocracy. The interactions between formal and informal institutions under different political umbrellas in Afghanistan create intricate surroundings for women’s rights. Despite advances achieved within formal institutions to enact and promote gender equality, the enduring influence of deeply rooted informal norms and structures remains a formidable hurdle. The relationship between political transitions and women’s rights is analyzed from a Feminist Institutionalist perspective. This perspective on Afghan women’s rights offers a unique lens through which the challenges, opportunities, and dynamics at play in the quest for gender equality in Afghanistan are examined. This research paper thoroughly evaluates the impact of these political transitions on the rights, societal norms, and overall welfare of Afghan women, shedding light on the complex landscape of women’s rights in Afghanistan amidst evolving political dynamics.