- أفغانستان
- Joined ILA in 2024
- خدمات إعادة التوطين
Khatool Farhood Jahesh is an Afghan women’s rights activist and one of the committed voices advocating for women’s freedom, education, employment, and participation in public life following the Taliban takeover.
After the collapse of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in August 2021 and the return of the Taliban, she became actively involved in peaceful demonstrations against the restrictions imposed on women and girls. On 22 October 2021, she helped found the Unity & Solidarity of Afghan Women Movement to strengthen collective advocacy for women’s rights. She took part in numerous demonstrations, gave interviews to international media, and continued her advocacy despite mounting threats and harassment.
Because of her public activism and her positions in favour of women’s political participation, Khatool became a specific target. She faced repeated threats, harassment, and violence connected to her work.
Case background and support provided
Khatool’s case was brought to AFI-ILA because of the serious risks tied to her activism. Working with its partners, AFI-ILA prepared and supported her case for relocation and protection, including the preparation of her file and coordination with the relevant institutions. Through this process, Khatool and her family received a positive response regarding their relocation.
One of the most difficult stages was arranging safe movement out of Afghanistan and providing temporary accommodation and financial support during this critical period. AFI-ILA was able to draw on a collaboration with the team behind the documentary Bread and Roses, directed by Sahra Mani, in which Khatool is one of the protagonists; support connected to this project helped contribute effectively to the evacuation and relocation process.
Today, Khatool and her family live safely in the Netherlands. She continues to represent the voices of Afghan women who have faced repression and displacement because of their activism. Her story reflects the risks faced by Afghan women human rights defenders under Taliban rule.