Taliban mark 5 years in power as aid groups warn of crisis

Five years after seizing power, the Taliban sought to portray their government as in control on Saturday. Armoured vehicles took part in a parade outside the former US embassy in Kabul, displaying flags and banners, marking the event as a "victory day" from Western domination. Taliban interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani claimed their return was due to "morale, courage" and "divine assistance," while also acknowledging "issues and problems that may still exist."

International organizations and the UN contend that the Taliban have struggled to address Afghanistan's natural and humanitarian crises over the past five years. Women are particularly affected by severe restrictions, with many barred from secondary schools and universities, and their freedom of movement limited. The UN estimates that half of Afghan women now leave their homes only once or twice a month.

Despite initial promises of a more liberal government, the Taliban's restrictions have intensified. UNESCO reports that 2.5 million women and girls are prevented from attending secondary school and university. UN Women data shows that only half of Afghan women now leave their homes multiple times per month. The Taliban claim to respect women's rights under Sharia law, but their actions have drawn criticism.

While the Taliban remain internationally unrecognised, with Russia being the only country to officially acknowledge their government, they have engaged in quiet diplomatic efforts. Some countries, such as Europe, are considering ways to limit Afghan refugee deportations to the Taliban government. The Taliban are also negotiating economic deals at the crossroads of South and Central Asia and the Middle East.

Diplomatic inroads have been made, with the Taliban seeking arrangements with European nations to facilitate Afghan deportations. Meanwhile, the International Rescue Committee warned that Afghanistan's humanitarian needs have reached a record level, driven by droughts, earthquakes, and the deportation of Afghans from Iran and Pakistan. As the country faces mounting challenges, the international community emphasizes the need for sustainable peace and prosperity, ensuring the rights and potential of all Afghans are realized.