On the Occasion of International Women’s Day. March 8, 2025

On this International Women’s Day, the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) proudly honors the resilience, perseverance, and struggle of Afghan women in their pursuit of human rights, freedom, and equality. While women around the world celebrate their achievements, millions of Afghan women remain deprived of their most fundamental rights, subjected to systematic oppression, discrimination, and gender apartheid, under the rule of the Taliban.

To mark this occasion, ANIM is proud to introduce the song “Together We Rise” as a musical call for justice and awareness in response to the widespread violations of women’s rights in Afghanistan under the Taliban. Performed by the Afghan Youth Orchestra and vocalists of the ensemble, this piece is not only a cry against injustice and the suppression of women but also a call to Afghan men to stand alongside women in the fight for their fundamental rights and take an active role in this shared struggle.

“Together We Rise” reflects the pain, hope, and perseverance of Afghan women. It not only tells the story of oppression and discrimination but also symbolizes cultural and artistic resistance against the silencing of women, particularly under the repressive policies of the Taliban. Arranged and performed by ANIM, this piece reaffirms our commitment to supporting Afghan women and girls and underscores the truth that the fight for justice and equality is not solely the responsibility of women. it is a collective duty that rests on the shoulders of all Afghans.

On this symbolic day, ANIM reaffirms its commitment to empowering Afghan women through music, education, and cultural engagement. We stand with the women and men who are fighting for freedom and human rights, and we declare with a loud and unwavering voice that no power, not even the Taliban, can silence the voices of justice, art, and freedom.

Together, we rise for justice, for equality, for a free Afghanistan.