Participation of Afghan Female Athletes in Asian Games

Reuters reported that a number of female athletes from Afghanistan have gathered from around the world to participate in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, highlighting the volleyball team's training for their first Asian Games. According to the report, some athletes fled Afghanistan after the Taliban came to power, fearing harassment from a government that has effectively banned women's sports. They face an uncertain prospect of returning home and have rebuilt their lives in Iran, Pakistan, and other countries while continuing their sports activities. Reuters noted that some of them are training in Hangzhou, China, wearing uniforms in the traditional colors of Afghanistan - red, black, and green - under the guidance of veteran Iranian coach Nasrin Khazani, while wearing hijabs. The team is set to play their first group match against Kazakhstan. The report suggests that it is unlikely they will advance to the knockout stage, but Khushhal Malekzai, the Secretary-General of the Afghanistan Volleyball Federation, told Reuters that their recognition in these games is a step towards empowering Afghan women. Mr. Malekzai has been living in Melbourne, Australia, for just over a year. He stated that he left his country on the advice of the Afghanistan Volleyball Federation due to multiple threats from the Taliban for supporting women's sports. Khushhal Malekzai became emotional after seeing the athletes circle the field and shout 'Afghanistan' after practice, saying he is excited that they are here, but there is no hope for athletes still in Afghanistan. A total of 17 athletes will compete in volleyball, cycling, and athletics. Kimia Yousofi, an athlete residing in Australia who will participate in the women's 100-meter race and carried the Afghan flag at the opening ceremony in Hangzhou last week, declined to speak with Reuters. Her coach, John Quinn, stated that Ms. Yousofi does not want to draw attention as it may lead to retaliation against those she is connected with in Afghanistan. Afghan women and men marched as a team at the opening ceremony behind the traditional three-color national flag of their country, rather than the white flag used by the Taliban government. Reuters reported that due to the 'sensitivity of the situation,' it is unlikely that the delegation, which includes male athletes and sports officials based in Afghanistan, will be present to cheer on the women's volleyball team or other Afghan female athletes at their competition venues.