US House Approves Measure to Counter Taliban Restrictions on Women

DID Press: US House Foreign Affairs Committee, with bipartisan support, has passed a bill aimed at addressing the extensive restrictions imposed by the Taliban government on women and girls in Afghanistan. The measure has been sent to the full House for final consideration.

Known as the “Afghan Women and Girls Exclusion Rejection Act,” the bill was introduced in February 2026 by Democrat Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove of California and cleared the committee in March with support from both Democratic and Republican members. This bipartisan backing reflects growing concern in Washington over the state of women’s rights in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

Under the bill, the U.S. Department of State will be required to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within 180 days, reviewing Taliban policies toward women and girls. The report will assess restrictions on education, employment, freedom of movement, and participation in public life.

The report will also examine whether these policies could constitute international crimes, such as crimes against humanity, gender-based persecution, torture, or other inhumane and degrading treatment—potentially laying the groundwork for future legal or accountability measures.

Supporters say the goal is to formally document human rights violations against women in Afghanistan and inform future U.S. policy, including diplomatic or multilateral actions. They note that this initiative could also help attract the attention of international bodies, including the United Nations.

Currently, the bill does not impose direct sanctions or penalties, but it is considered an important step in increasing political and legal pressure on the Taliban.

Since the Taliban’s return to power, Afghan women and girls have faced severe restrictions, including bans on education beyond primary school, employment limitations, and strict laws governing dress and public presence.