Delegations from Afghanistan and around 30 other countries have gathered in Doha for UN-sponsored talks aiming to integrate Afghanistan into the international community. This marks the first time the Taliban will participate. The talks will be led by various officials, including representatives from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the UN, Qatar, and the US, with a focus on key issues such as peace, human rights, and economic development.
The Taliban is eager to discuss financial restrictions and drug trafficking, with demands for the release of frozen funds and support for farmers. Afghanistan has been a major producer of opium and other drugs, leading to widespread drug use. The Taliban’s recent ban on poppy cultivation saw a drastic reduction in drug production.
Despite hopes for economic recovery, the talks do not signify official recognition for the Taliban. Previous disagreements over representation and conditions for attendance have caused tensions. Critics have also voiced concerns about the exclusion of women from the talks, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan women under Taliban rule.
Women’s rights activists in Afghanistan express disappointment over the lack of inclusion and ongoing restrictions on education and employment for women. They feel abandoned by the international community, which initially offered hope but has failed to address their plight. The situation highlights the struggles faced by Afghan women under Taliban rule and the urgent need for global attention and support in promoting gender equality in the country.
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