What's happened
On August 15, 2021, the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, ending U.S. and NATO military presence. Four years later, the Taliban commemorated Victory Day with celebrations that included aerial displays, but the regime faces international condemnation for severe restrictions on women and girls, ongoing protests, and diplomatic isolation. Human rights abuses persist amid economic and humanitarian crises.
What's behind the headline?
The Taliban's commemoration of Victory Day underscores their consolidation of power and rejection of international criticism. Their narrative frames their rule as a divine blessing and a sacrifice for Islamic law, but this masks ongoing repression, especially of women and girls. The regime's focus on religious indoctrination and internal stability is evident in directives to promote religious knowledge and build mosques, yet these efforts are overshadowed by the humanitarian crisis and international sanctions. The recognition by Russia signals a geopolitical shift, potentially emboldening the Taliban, while Western condemnation and legal actions, such as the ICC warrants, highlight the regime's ongoing human rights violations. The regime's narrative is designed to legitimize their authority internally, but the persistent protests and global criticism reveal a fragile and contested legitimacy. The next phase will likely see increased diplomatic isolation and internal resistance, with the humanitarian situation worsening unless significant policy shifts occur.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports on the Taliban's Victory Day celebrations and their narrative of divine blessings, emphasizing the regime's focus on religious legitimacy and internal consolidation. The AP News articles provide context on the initial seizure of power, ongoing restrictions on women, and the international response, including the ICC arrest warrants. The Independent highlights the economic and humanitarian crises, as well as the regime's efforts to project stability through aerial displays and public events. Despite some diplomatic recognition, notably from Russia, the overall international stance remains critical, with human rights groups condemning the regime's treatment of women and girls. The contrasting perspectives reveal a regime that seeks to legitimize itself through religious and patriotic rhetoric while facing widespread internal dissent and external sanctions.
How we got here
The Taliban took power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces after two decades of conflict. Since then, they have implemented strict Islamic laws, heavily restricting women's rights, including bans on education, work, and public participation. Despite some diplomatic recognition, notably from Russia, the regime remains largely isolated internationally, with widespread condemnation over human rights violations. The country faces a worsening humanitarian crisis, climate challenges, and economic decline, complicating the Taliban's governance.
Go deeper
Common question
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Taliban’s Power Five Years On: What’s Changed in Afghanistan?
Five years after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, the country remains a complex mix of military strength, social restrictions, and international diplomacy. While the Taliban has solidified its grip on power, significant challenges persist, including economic hardship, restrictions on women’s rights, and ongoing unrest. This page explores how Afghanistan has changed over the past five years, what the current situation looks like, and what the future might hold.
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Afghanistan After 4 Years of Taliban Rule: What’s Changed and What’s Still the Same?
Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the country has undergone significant changes. While they celebrate their victories and seek to legitimize their rule, many issues remain unresolved. From restrictions on women and girls to ongoing protests and international responses, there's a lot to understand about Afghanistan today. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about the current situation and what the future might hold.
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What Are the Key Global News Stories Today?
Stay updated with the most important news from around the world today. From rising crime in Washington, D.C., to the anniversary of WWII's end, and ongoing crises in Afghanistan, these stories shape our global landscape. Curious about how these events connect or what they mean for the future? Read on for clear, concise answers to your top questions.
More on these topics
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The Taliban or Taleban, who refer to themselves as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, are a Sunni Islamic fundamentalist political movement and military organization in Afghanistan currently waging war within that country.
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Afghanistan, officially the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country at the crossroads of Central and South Asia.
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Kabul is the capital and largest city of Afghanistan, located in the eastern section of the country. It is also a municipality, forming part of the greater Kabul Province, and divided into 22 districts.
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Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada is a political and religious leader who is the third Supreme Commander of the Taliban. He is given the title of Emir-al-Mumineen by Taliban which is also the title which his two predecessors had carried.