(ConservativeHub.com) – Since Afghanistan fell into the hands of the Taliban, reports indicate that the quality of life for its citizens has dramatically dropped. It’s especially difficult for women who are currently struggling in a battle for agency. They face extreme opposition as they try to fight for their rights, leaving them begging for help.
Violent Acts Against Women Are Common
Women’s rights activists in Afghanistan are allegedly under threat. Kidnappings have become common, and according to activists, women have also faced public beatings, electric prods, and threats.
Activists Tamana Paryani and Parwana Ibrahimkhil reportedly became victims when armed men took them into custody on January 19. There’s been no word on either woman since the kidnapping. Since then, more women have gone missing, all with links to activist activities.
According to human rights expert Sahar Fetrat, the Taliban uses these actions to send a message of power. They want them to see how protesting or activism of any kind will end; it’s about instilling fear and maintaining control.
Taliban officials, on the other hand, say they have nothing to do with the disappearances and blame the incidents on “rogue” elements within the group. But is that true?
Putting Up a Facade
After the Taliban took over the country, leaders have tried to convince the world the group had changed. They promised to treat women as equals and let them enjoy continued movements forward.
However, reports say that former female government workers, such as Khujasta Elham, have to sign in at work to make it look as if the new leadership is maintaining women within its ranks. Still, Elham and others receive no pay and cannot return to their former positions.
Despite the activist group’s efforts, news outlets suggest that women have lost their rights. Those who lived freely before the takeover now cower in fear; speaking out only brings hardship.
In January, representatives from the Taliban met with special envoys from Europe and the US to discuss formal recognition of the group and humanitarian aid to the nation. At that time, the other countries requested the group end all rights violations.
Afghanistan’s people are in a dire situation, but is there anything the US can do to help? How can the US and other countries best deal with a terrorist regime? If the US or another country steps in, will it even make a difference?
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