Five years into Taliban rule, Afghanistan seeks to ease international isolation

Afghanistan has marked five years since the Taliban seized power. The country's human rights record has worsened, leading to sanctions and aid cuts. According to Egypt Independent, humanitarian aid has been dramatically cut, with approximately 45% of the population in need. The US, once the top provider of assistance, is no longer in the top five donor nations.

The Taliban's rule has seen a tightening of restrictions, particularly on women and girls. Egypt Independent reports that women and girls have been stripped of their fundamental rights, with the system described as "gender apartheid." The restrictions have erased half the population from public life, making Afghanistan one of the world's most dangerous places to be a woman, according to John Sopko, the former Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, as cited by Egypt Independent.

Despite the criticism, the Taliban government is celebrating its fifth anniversary, hailing the country's "freedom" and security. According to Free Malaysia Today, the authorities are hosting sports events, while supporters are gathering to mark the occasion. University student Pirooz Mirzaie told Free Malaysia Today that the government has brought security, infrastructure projects, and opportunities for entrepreneurs, but noted that there are challenges for young people.

Brief written by urgent.news from RFI English, Egypt Independent, Free Malaysia Today — 3 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.