Women’s Group Marks Taliban Takeover Anniversary as “Darkest Day” in Afghanistan

Women’s Group Marks Taliban Takeover Anniversary as “Darkest Day” in Afghanistan
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The “Women’s Movement for Freedom” has described August 15 as “one of the darkest days in Afghanistan’s modern history,” saying the Taliban’s return to power has brought fear, discrimination, and repression to millions, Amu TV reported.

In a statement marking four years since the takeover, the group said the country has witnessed “widespread, systematic, and ongoing” human rights violations. It accused the Taliban of silencing or forcing into exile women, minorities, journalists, civil activists, and young people.

Afghan women, it noted, remain barred from education beyond sixth grade, employment, travel, sports, arts, and public life — a situation it called “organized gender apartheid.” The movement also highlighted the targeting of Hazaras and Shiite Muslims through attacks, forced displacement, property confiscations, and systemic discrimination, adding that none of the assaults on their institutions have been investigated.

It further cited poverty, heavy taxation, and strict social restrictions as making life “an endless hell” for Afghans. The group criticized the international community’s “silence,” urging policy changes toward the Taliban, stronger diplomatic pressure, and an inclusive political process. It called for an international investigation into crimes against Hazaras and Shiites, protection for at-risk activists and journalists, and denial of Taliban recognition.