UN Women has reaffirmed the rights and place of women in sports, saying women in athletics deserve respect and equal opportunities.

In a post on X on Tuesday, September 15, UN Women said that discussions about female athletes should focus on their skills, achievements, leadership and performance.

The UN agency added that equality in sports means women should be valued based on their abilities and performance, both on the field and in competition.

The comments come as Afghan women and girls have been barred from participating in sports since the Taliban returned to power.