Statement by the Women’s Movement towards Freedom, in Protest against the Brutal Murder of Kubra Rezaei, and in Defense of Afghan Refugees and Women’s Rights

With deep sorrow and righteous anger, we, members of the Women’s Movement towards Freedom, have received the tragic news of the brutal murder of Kubra Rezaei, a young Afghan woman in Iran. Kubra’s life was taken in a horrific and inhumane manner—a clear reflection of the deep-rooted racism, discrimination, and absence of protection for Afghan refugees in neighboring countries.

Kubra was not just a victim—she was a symbol of thousands of Afghan women and girls who fled the brutality of the Taliban regime in search of safety, dignity, and freedom, only to face continued injustice, insecurity, and marginalization beyond Afghanistan’s borders.

Since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, millions of Afghans have been forcibly displaced, including countless women, journalists, activists, and human rights defenders. In neighboring countries like Iran and Pakistan, Afghan refugees—especially women—live in precarious conditions: undocumented, invisible, and without access to legal protection, education, healthcare, or security.

The murder of Kubra Rezaei is not an isolated incident. It is the result of systemic discrimination, xenophobic policies, and the international community’s failure to protect vulnerable refugees. Afghan women in exile are often exploited, silenced, or abused, with little to no recourse to justice.

In light of this tragedy, we demand the following:

🔹 A full, transparent, and independent investigation into the murder of Kubra Rezaei, and the prosecution of those responsible.

🔹 Immediate steps by Iranian authorities and international bodies to ensure the safety and dignity of Afghan refugees, especially women and girls.

🔹 Urgent attention from the United Nations, UNHCR, OHCHR, Amnesty International, and other international actors to the deteriorating human rights situation of Afghan refugees.

🔹 Recognition of the legal status and rights of Afghan refugees in host countries, with access to protection, education, and basic services.

We call upon civil society, human rights defenders, and all people of conscience to raise their voices in solidarity with Afghan women—whether inside Afghanistan or in exile. Kubra’s voice may have been silenced, but her story speaks loudly of the pain, injustice, and strength of Afghan women everywhere.

Justice for Kubra Rezaei!

Protection for Afghan Refugees!

Freedom for the Women of Afghanistan!

With solidarity and unwavering resolve,

Women’s Movement towards Freedom

Date: 11 June 2025