Amnesty International has launched a heartfelt petition, garnering over 4,500 signatures, urging the French government to streamline visa issuance for Afghan women and girls. The organization initiated this online campaign on September 12 and recently held a supporting event in Paris.

The petition underlines the dire situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban's persecution of women and girls has reached alarming levels, constituting a "crime against humanity" per Amnesty International's legal analysis. Fleeing to neighboring countries like Iran and Pakistan offers no refuge, as they too face harassment and arbitrary arrests, with the looming threat of forced return to Afghanistan.

The central issue is the arduous visa application process in these nations, marked by sparse visa issuance and lengthy consulate appointment wait times. Amnesty International calls upon France to open its doors and provide a safe haven for these vulnerable individuals, advocating for a more compassionate and swift response to the crisis.