Women in Afghanistan have been subjected to Gender Apartheid regime under the Taliban since Aug 2021, which has resulted in an erosion of their rights and freedoms. In this context, the experience of the Iran women advocacy model could prove to be an important tool for promoting women's rights and challenging the Taliban's Gender Apartheid.

Given the urgency and importance of the matter, SPIA-Afghanistan Policy Lab at Princeton University holds a high-level panel to discuss how Afghan and Iranian women have been engaged in a struggle for their rights and have inspired each other in the process.

Afghan women have been pushing back against the gender apartheid imposed by the Taliban, while Iranian women have been advocating for their rights in a society that has long suppressed them for decades. Despite the differences in the challenges they face, the two neighboring countries share some common themes in their struggle for women's rights. Our panelists highlight the global activism of women from both countries and how it has helped bring attention to their plight. While they have distinct differences, there is potential for them to learn from each other and work towards a common goal.

Additionally, regional advocacy efforts are crucial in promoting women's rights and gender equality. The use of the Iran advocacy model could pave the way for greater regional cooperation and collaboration on issues related to women's rights in the Middle East and south Asia region, ultimately leading to a more collective and impactful effort to address the issue.

Conclusion, the Iran advocacy model experience holds promise for promoting women's rights in Afghanistan under the Taliban's gender apartheid regime. Its potential applicability, proven success, potential for cross-border collaboration, and opportunities for regional advocacy make it a valuable tool for women's rights advocates in Afghanistan and the wider Middle East region.