Islamabad, Pakistan – Amid growing global concerns over the ban on girls' education in Afghanistan, Mohammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, emphasized that there are no religious restrictions on girls' education in Islam.
Speaking at a special session in Islamabad dedicated to education for girls in Muslim societies, Al-Issa challenged the Taliban's interpretation of Islam, stating: “Those who, in the name of Islam, prevent girls from obtaining education are presenting an incorrect and unjustifiable interpretation of the religion. Education for women and girls is not only their right but also a necessity for the progress of Islamic societies.”
This two-day conference, which began on Saturday, 22 Jadi, in Islamabad, hosted over 150 participants, including government ministers, diplomats, scholars, and representatives from international organizations such as UNESCO and UNICEF.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Speaks Out
Shahbaz Sharif, Pakistan’s Prime Minister, addressed the opening session, declaring: “Denying education to girls is equivalent to denying communities a brighter future. Without girls’ education, genuine development and progress cannot be achieved.”
Although Pakistan extended an invitation to the Taliban to participate in this conference, they declined to attend. The Taliban have implemented extensive restrictions on girls' education in Afghanistan, drawing widespread international condemnation. Afghanistan remains the only country in the world where girls are denied access to formal education under the Taliban's rule, making this issue one of the most critical human rights crises in the nation.
A Strong Message Against Misinterpretation
In a press briefing on the sidelines of the conference, Mohammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa reiterated: “Our message to all those who block girls’ education is clear: Islam not only permits but also recommends education for girls as a moral and social imperative.”
He further announced that the conference’s final declaration would strongly emphasize the importance of girls’ education and propose actionable strategies to overcome existing barriers.
This international forum reflects a united stance against any misinterpretation of Islamic teachings that hinders the rights and opportunities of women and girls, advocating instead for their essential role in the development and progress of Islamic societies.
