Afghanistan marks 5 years under the Taliban: safer streets but pleas for jobs and education
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — As Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers mark five years since sweeping back to power, some Kabul residents said they feel…
Afghanistan commemorated the fifth anniversary of the Taliban's takeover on August 13, 2026, with residents expressing mixed feelings about the past five years. Mohammad Qasim, a 30-year-old resident, noted that safety has improved after years of conflict, but stressed the need for economic opportunities for the youth. The Taliban regained power on August 15, 2021, after the U.S. and NATO troops withdrew, sparking chaotic scenes at Kabul's airport.
Initially, the Taliban promised to protect women's rights, but soon imposed bans on girls and women attending secondary school and higher education, citing their interpretation of Islamic laws. Restrictions have since been placed on women's employment and travel without a male guardian. While the United Nations acknowledges the country's increased stability, it warns that lasting peace is unattainable unless the Taliban leaders lift restrictions on women and girls, safeguard basic rights, and address terrorism concerns.
Written by urgent.news from Associated Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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