The enduring toll on Afghan women under Taliban rule

The Taliban government in Afghanistan marked the second anniversary of their takeover with a military parade, celebrating their return to power. However, in the two years since their takeover, women have suffered significant reversals in their rights, with the United Nations terming it "gender apartheid." The international community continues to grapple with how to engage with the Taliban authorities, with restrictions on women's rights being a key obstacle in negotiations over aid and recognition. Afghan women have expressed fear and despair over the loss of rights, while also facing an economic and humanitarian crisis. While security has improved, the threat of the Islamic State group remains, and tensions have risen with Pakistan.