Taliban regime needs to tackle poverty, joblessness that cause economic distress

The Asian Tribune

www.asiantribune.net

KABUL: It was three years ago that the United States withdrew from Afghanistan and the
Taliban government took over in Kabul. US’ long presence in Afghanistan,
couldn’t stop the Taliban from regrouping and they returned to power.

The US forces had to ultimately leave. Initially, there was lot of
skepticism among members of international community about the regime and
challenges for it.

The question was that whether ill it be a ‘softer’ version of the Taliban,
hanged on everyone’s mind. Eyes were also on how much women would be free to
pursue education and work.

Immediately after the government was formed, there were signals that a shift
was possible. There was less corruption. Some other positive indications, gave hope to people.

However, as far as women’s freedom is concerned, the tribal traditions continue to be more dominant
and the rights granted under Islam take a backseat. In thisaspect, it shows that the regime
has not been able to learn from its old mistakes and fails to proveitself better in their new avatar.

Of course, the claim of lesser violence, stability in currency and development apart, citizens’ woes
are deepening. The international aid is less and the sanctions remain. In order to
celebrate the anniversary of their return to power, the Taliban government held events.

There were rallies and flags were sold on the streets in the capital to mark the occasion. However,
there is a sense of hopelessness among youth.

Girls’ education remains a serious cause of concern. The country saw conflict over decades and hasn’t
got time to recover. Clearly, the future is still uncertain for the Afghans and there is lack of intelligent
thinking as far as policy making is concerned. Long road ahead for the people of Afghanistan.