Between Two Worlds: The Lives of Afghan Female Refugees in the U.S.
A research project highlighting the challenges young female Afghan refugees experience when migrating to the U.S.
Visit our archive of personal stories.
This project explores the physical, social, and emotional challenges Afghan girls (ages 13-19) face during the transition to a new country. Our mission is to foster greater understanding and awareness of the refugee experience and inform others on how to support young Afghan refugees with greater sensitivity.
All testimonies were collected through online or in-person interviews with Afghan girls who migrated to the United States or with individuals who have worked closely with young Afghan refugees.
Context
August 15, 2021
The Taliban regained control of Kabul. Triggered mass displacement and evacuations to other countries. Girls’ education banned past secondary school.
By 2022
the Afghan immigrant population in the United States grew from roughly 54,000 in 2010 to 195,000 in 2022, driven by instability following the Taliban’s return to power.
2.2 million women
have been banned from secondary schools since 2021. Women face restrictions on education, employment, travel, and public participation.
More Resources
To understand the history of the Taliban and its impact on Afghan women and girls, please explore the following sources.
Council on Foregin Relations
UN Women
Migration Policy Institute
Provides context on Afghan immigration and refugee resettlement in the United States following the Taliban's return to power in 2021.
Provides clear timeline of the Taliban’s rise to power and background context of Afghanistan’s modern history.
Explores the Taliban’s restrictions on Afghan women, including barriers to education, employment, and participation in society.