Afghan women criticized restrictions on female employment, saying their economic difficulties are becoming increasingly dire.

Farzia, a former employee for the Administrative Reforms Commission, said that since losing her job she has been faced with both financial and psychological problems.

Farzia, who is the sole breadwinner of her family, said: "The women who have studied for years and gained expertise should be allowed to contribute to the workforce."

"When a woman is away from her duty, all that experience and capacity for improvement will be lost over time,” said Uqda, an employee of the previous government.

Kabul residents said both men and women must work in order for the economy to thrive in the nation.

"We ask the Islamic Emirate to let women work side by side with their brothers, which would cause the growth of our country's economy,” said Mudaser, a resident of Kabul

"There is no problem with women working; it promotes the advancement of society, and society advances” said Wasim Sarwari, another resident of Kabul.

Bilal Karimi, the Islamic Emirate's deputy spokesman, noted that some women are employed in government institutions where there is a need for them.

"Women work in all sectors where they are needed. In the Ministries of the Interior, Finance, Health, and Education. They work in every sector that needs them. It is also not necessary for women who work in departments who do not need them,” Karimi noted.

This comes as the US State Department's deputy spokesperson said that denying women access to employment and education prevents them from participating in the distribution of humanitarian aid that helps all Afghan citizens.