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Sadaqat Q A. Social Mobility and the Right to Equality of Opportunity in Afghanistan. SRQJL 2026; 3 (3) :47-69
URL: http://srqjl.knu.edu.af/article-1-129-en.html

The right to equality of opportunity is a procedural right that, in its conceptualization, possesses a clear indicator: social mobility. In a society where various forms of social mobility exist, such mobility serves as a positive sign of equality of opportunity. Conversely, weak social mobility reflects discrimination and the hereditary nature of social, cultural, economic, and political positions. The scope of social mobility is broad and encompasses inclusive institutions, education, healthcare, access to appropriate employment and income, fair wages, job opportunities, social security, and access to technology. The greater the degree of social mobility, the stronger the equality of opportunity and the weaker the inherited inequalities—forming a positive cycle. However, the more entrenched the inherited inequalities, the lower the social mobility and, consequently, the weaker the equality of opportunity.
In Afghanistan, social mobility has not reached a desirable or ideal level; therefore, achieving justice still requires equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. This study, employing inductive and analytical reasoning and relying on library-based data, examines and explains the relationship between the right to equality of opportunity and social mobility. Moreover, when assessing different societies and groups in terms of social mobility and equality of opportunity, careful attention must be paid to their characteristics, as these features can help identify the indicators and manifestations of social mobility and equality of opportunity.