In many societies, including the United States, young girls often perceive that boys face fewer obstacles. While there are disparities in equity, many children still have access to education, sports, and work opportunities. This is far from the reality for girls in Afghanistan. Due to cultural norms and safety concerns, many Afghan girls adopt a male identity by dressing as boys.
Following the recent withdrawal of U.S. troops, there is growing international concern for the Afghan populace, particularly women. The International Rescue Committee reports that approximately 1.4 million women and girls in Afghanistan experience severe restrictions on their rights. The injustices faced by Afghan women can be deeply unsettling. They are symbols of resilience in a nation where men often cling to outdated traditions and oppressive laws.
For some Afghan girls, adopting a male persona provides a means of protection for their bodies and minds. This practice, known as “bacha posh,” has existed for generations and is crucial for understanding the complex social fabric of Afghan culture. Some families who have not had sons designate a daughter to live as a boy to avoid societal shame, as male children traditionally contribute to the family’s financial well-being.
This practice opens doors for girls that would otherwise be closed to them. They can receive an education without the fear of violence, pursue employment, engage in sports, or simply venture outside unaccompanied. However, once they reach puberty, these girls typically revert to their female identities, often facing the prospect of early marriage and the end of their education.
When the U.S. intervened in Afghanistan in 2000, it created opportunities for women that had been previously unimaginable. As the war progressed, girls began attending school in increasing numbers—by 2012, 85% of girls were enrolled in education, according to the World Bank. Women also began entering professions that were previously off-limits. However, these advancements have faced significant setbacks since the Taliban regained control, putting many girls’ lives at risk simply for seeking education. In 2018, a devastating bombing at a school killed over 90 girls, highlighting the dangers they face.
Jenny Nordberg, author of “The Underground Girls of Kabul,” emphasizes that “bacha posh” reflects a deeply dysfunctional society where women and girls are regarded as second-class citizens. If girls had equal rights, there would be no need to masquerade as boys. It’s crucial to push for progress that acknowledges the dignity and safety of women and girls in Afghanistan, as their rights should be as fundamental as those of boys.
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Summary
The practice of “bacha posh” allows Afghan girls to dress as boys to navigate a restrictive society. This tradition, rooted in cultural necessity, reflects the ongoing struggles faced by women in Afghanistan, especially in light of recent political changes. While progress has been made in women’s rights, current conditions threaten their safety and access to education.