Deteriorating Human Rights in Afghanistan
In 2024, Afghanistan’s human rights landscape deteriorated sharply, particularly under the repressive grip of the Taliban, as detailed in Human Rights Watch’s latest World Report 2025. The Taliban escalated their assault on women, girls, and minority groups while simultaneously launching a campaign against journalists and dissenters, imposing tight restrictions on media expression.
The Humanitarian Crisis
Amidst this turmoil, a staggering 23 million people face humanitarian crises, most gravely impacting women and girls. Economic malaise has permeated the country, leaving many dependent on urgent aid, as noted in the report. Over half of Afghanistan’s population grapples with poverty, inflating emergency hunger levels to 2.9 million individuals in dire need.
A Landscape of Fear
As noted by Fereshta Abbasi of Human Rights Watch, “Three years into Taliban rule, the suppression of rights and freedoms has only intensified.” The Taliban instituted a new law restricting women’s movement, requiring male guardians for travel and silencing their public voices. Moreover, many women face detention for not adhering to enforced dress codes.
Media Censorship and Violence
Arbitrary detentions and torture of journalists underscore the tightening noose around media freedom. From banning live political broadcasts to limiting interviews strictly to preapproved figures, the Taliban’s stranglehold on information grows ever tighter. In addition, the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) has intensified attacks on civilians, particularly targeting minorities like the Hazara.
Call for International Action
Human Rights Watch urges global actors to advocate against the Taliban’s abuses and push for the establishment of a robust UN accountability mechanism. As these violations mount, the international community is poised to play a crucial role in alleviating the suffering inflicted by both governance and extremist violence in this war-torn nation.
– Afghanistan’s human rights situation has worsened under Taliban rule. – Over 23 million people need humanitarian assistance due to economic crisis. – Women face severe restrictions on movement and expression. – Journalists are detained and media censorship is rampant. – Major calls for international support and accountability mechanisms are emphasized.
The grim situation in Afghanistan demands urgent international attention and action. The Taliban’s oppressive measures against women and minority groups, alongside increasing violence and a crippling economic crisis, have left millions vulnerable. As international entities strategize support for the suffering population, they must also push for accountability and address the systemic violations of human rights.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
