This study examines the multi-faceted challenges faced by Afghan female entrepreneurs under the Taliban government, highlighting the interplay of political, economic, institutional and social constraints that severely limit women’s economic participation. Drawing on qualitative interviews with female entrepreneurs, wholesalers and non-governmental organisation (NGO) representatives across multiple provinces, the research identifies critical barriers, such as restricted mobility, limited market access, declining household purchasing power, financial exclusion, regulatory constraints, and the withdrawal of institutional and donor support. Women have adapted through home-based production, digital marketing, product diversification and peer networks, demonstrating resilience and strategic agency; however, these adaptive strategies remain fragile in the face of structural restrictions. The study further reveals the psychological toll of exclusion, with entrepreneurs reporting stress, fear and loss of purpose, while broader economic consequences include reduced productivity, stagnation of innovation and deepened household poverty. Drawing on these findings, the paper offers practical short- and long-term policy recommendations for Afghan female entrepreneurs, NGOs and international organisations, emphasising financial support, skills development, digital solutions, market access, and advocacy for rights-based reforms. The study underscores that supporting women’s entrepreneurship is not only a matter of justice and human rights but also a critical lever for economic recovery and stability in Afghanistan.
The paper is structured as follows: Chapter 1 introduces the research focus. Chapter 2 presents the research question, with the methodology detailed in Chapter 3. Chapter 4 examines the legal and policy framework, covering both international human-rights obligations and national policies under Taliban rule. Chapter 5 provides the background and situational context of women’s economic participation in Afghanistan. Chapter 6 reviews the relevant literature and identifies research gaps. Chapter 7 presents the findings, which are then discussed in Chapter 8. Chapter 9 offers policy recommendations, and Chapter 10 concludes the paper.
Keywords: Afghan female entrepreneurs, women-owned businesses, Taliban restrictions, economic exclusion, market access, institutional support, human rights.