Celebrating Empowerment: Afghanistan’s Women National Team Shines alongside FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brisbane

Brisbane – 27 July 2023 – In a touching display of compassion and solidarity, members of Afghanistan’s Women National Team were recently evacuated to Australia, where they were welcomed with open arms in a heartening kick-around event. The event, held in Brisbane, was graced by dignitaries from 10 countries, including Foreign Minister Senator Wong, Sports Minister Anika Wells, and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts MP in presence of Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi.

During these challenging times for Afghanistan, the presence of esteemed leaders and representatives from various nations demonstrated unwavering support for the brave souls of Afghanistan. The gathering was a true testament to the power of international collaboration and the collective determination to stand with Afghan girls and women, while their basic rights are violated by the Taliban inside Afghanistan.

Foreign Minister Senator Wong, in particular, stood out as a beacon of true leadership, exemplifying what it means to be a steadfast ally for the women and girls of Afghanistan. Her commitment to providing refuge and support for those facing adversity resonated deeply with all attendees.

The kick-around event in Brisbane showcased compassion and solidarity while shedding light on Afghanistan’s dire situation after the Taliban takeover. Violations of human rights, especially for women, led to a state of gender apartheid, and severe repression persisted under Taliban rule. The safe evacuation of Afghanistan’s Women National Team to Australia served as a poignant reminder of the hardships faced by countless others. The presence of Foreign Minister Senator Wong, Sports Minister Anika Wells, and other dignitaries emphasized international efforts to address the crisis. It underscored the urgency of protecting Afghan rights, especially for women, and providing refuge for those in need. The event called for sustained global commitment to human rights and dignity, aiming for a future of equality and compassion.

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The following links comprise a media collection featuring extensive coverage of the Afghan Women’s National Football Team in Australia and around the world for your interest:

SBS

https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/this-team-can-only-watch-on-during-the-womens-world-cup-as-fifa-wont-recognise-them/e9jti7uqb

CNN

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/29/football/australia-afghan-womens-team-hnk-intl-dst-spt/index.html

The Guardian

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/jul/17/sport-is-for-all-ignored-by-fifa-the-afghan-womens-team-play-on-in-australia

UNHCR

https://www.unhcr.org/news/stories/exiled-afghan-women-s-football-team-scores-goals-australia

AP

https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-womens-world-cup-soccer-morocco-9e463f1adab147fc8d79bc0169387196

Sports Media

https://www.sportanddev.org/latest/news/exiled-afghan-women-footballers-continue-fight-right-play

https://www.sportanddev.org/latest/news/activists-lawmakers-urge-fifa-recognise-exiled-afghanistan-women-footballers

https://www.lbbonline.com/news/gripping-whatsapp-documentary-follows-afghanistan-youth-womens-football-team-escape-from-the-taliban