Taliban Government Completes Five Years: Economic Crisis and Restrictions on Women Persist

Kabul: Five years have passed since the Afghan Taliban returned to power, with international media and organizations continuing to express serious concerns over the country’s overall situation. According to various international reports, Afghanistan is still facing a severe economic crisis, human rights concerns, extensive restrictions on women and continued diplomatic isolation.

Display of Military Power and Human Rights Situation

According to a France 24 report, the Taliban marked five years in power by displaying military equipment, armored vehicles and modern weapons left behind by former U.S. and NATO forces. However, the report noted that conditions on the ground remain deeply concerning for civilians, particularly women and minorities.

Restrictions on Women and Severe Health Sector Crisis

According to a special report by Turkish media network TRT, continued restrictions on women’s higher education and employment have severely affected Afghanistan’s healthcare system.

Shortage of Female Health Workers: Restrictions on women working in the medical sector have negatively affected maternal healthcare and newborn care.

Severe Malnutrition: Millions of children across the country are reportedly facing severe malnutrition due to shortages of food and essential medicines.

Restrictions on Education and Public Life Remain

Reports by German broadcaster DW and Sky News indicate that restrictions on women and girls remain firmly in place.

Closure of Educational Opportunities: The ban on secondary and higher education for girls above the sixth grade remains in effect.

Restrictions on Freedom of Movement: Restrictions on women’s access to public spaces, parks and travel without a male guardian have not been significantly relaxed.

Diplomatic Isolation and Foreign Policy Challenges

The BBC reports that despite five years having passed, relations between the Taliban government and the international community have not returned to normal. Due to its internal policies, strict interpretation of Islamic law and lack of flexibility on women’s fundamental rights, the Taliban administration continues to face significant challenges in securing broader formal diplomatic recognition.