Taliban's Reign in Afghanistan: Women and Girls Suffer the Consequences

Two years after seizing power in Afghanistan, the Taliban have solidified their rule with no significant opposition. While they have improved domestic security and engaged in investment talks with regional countries, their bans on Afghan girls and women from public spaces and higher education have drawn international condemnation. The lack of international funding and exclusion of women from delivering essential services have worsened living conditions in Afghanistan. The Taliban's economic situation remains precarious, with limited access to frozen funds and sanctions relief contingent on lifting restrictions on women. The ultimate direction of the Taliban's rule lies with their leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, who has shown no signs of deviating from their strict interpretation of Islamic law. Despite their isolation, the Taliban have engaged in bilateral relations and are seeking international recognition, particularly from countries like China and Russia. There is currently no armed or political opposition capable of toppling the Taliban, although the Islamic State poses a threat with sporadic high-profile attacks.