The Taliban in Afghanistan celebrated their third year in power with a military parade, showcasing their military might and weapons. The celebration took place at the former US airbase in Bagram, where Chinese and Iranian diplomats were also in attendance. The Taliban seized power in August 2021 after the collapse of the US-backed government.
Despite the celebrations, the Taliban government remains unrecognised by any other state, and their strict interpretation of Islam has led to restrictions on women, who are facing a dire situation. The anniversary of the Taliban’s rule has brought bitter feelings for many Afghan citizens, with memories of the past and uncertainty about the future.
While some, like rugby player Samiullah Akmal, see a bright future for Afghanistan under Taliban rule, others, like 26-year-old Zalmai, express concern about the worsening humanitarian crisis. The economy remains stagnant, with major international financial restrictions in place and a growing aid funding gap.
Women have been largely excluded from public life under Taliban rule, with restrictions on employment, education, and participation in society. Alison Davidian from UN Women highlighted the drastic changes in women’s rights in Afghanistan over the past three years, emphasizing the challenges they now face.
As Afghanistan marks the third year of Taliban rule, concerns remain about the country’s future and the well-being of its citizens. The Taliban government faces challenges in addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis and gaining recognition from the international community.
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