Khadija Ahmad Zada is an Afghan taekwondo coach from Herat, Afghanistan. For young girls, she was more than a coach. She was hope. She believed sport could give girls confidence, strength, and a sense of belonging.

Under Taliban rule, girls are banned from sport. Khadija refused to accept that. She secretly taught taekwondo to girls, knowing the risks, because she believed their right to move, train, and dream mattered.

For this, she was arrested by the Taliban. She is now held in one of Afghanistan’s most notorious prisons. Her trial is scheduled for this week. Her condition remains unknown, and early reports suggest she has been badly beaten.

This is not only about Khadija.

This is about Afghan women and girls being punished for existing, learning, and participating in society.

Before the Taliban returned to power, Afghan women competed in sports and represented their country internationally. They proved what was possible when given a chance. Today, those same dreams are treated as crimes.

We call on the international community, human rights organisations, governments, the International Olympic Committee, and World Taekwondo to act now.

Demand the immediate and unconditional release of Khadija Ahmad Zada.

Demand the right of Afghan girls to play sport safely and freely.

Sign this petition to stand with Khadija and with every Afghan girl denied her basic rights.

Your signature sends a clear message: sport is not a crime, and silence is not an option.

#FreeKhadija #SportIsNotACrime