The joint statement signed by the heads of diplomacy from the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Italy, Norway and the United States, in addition to the EU, stated that the action contradicts the public promises made by the Islamic movement after regaining power in Afghanistan in last August that it would respect women’s right to education.

Western countries have also alerted the Taliban to the inevitable repercussions that such a decision will have on their chances of gaining political support and legitimacy both inside and outside Afghanistan.

If not reversed, the decision will profoundly affect the prospects of achieving social unity and economic growth, as well as keep the country becoming a respected member of the international community, the statement said.

The Afghan Ministry of Education announced Wednesday that girls will be able to attend school up to sixth grade, and that the rest must stay home until further notice.

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, UNESCO and other international organizations also criticized the measure announced by the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, as the country was renamed by the Taliban.

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