Kabul: Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers on Saturday marked the fifth anniversary of their return to power, with officials and supporters gathering in Kabul to celebrate what they describe as the end of foreign occupation and the restoration of security in the country.
The Taliban seized Kabul on August 15, 2021, following the withdrawal of US-led international forces and the collapse of the previous Afghan government. Five years later, the group continues to exercise control over most of the country, while seeking greater diplomatic and economic engagement with the international community.
Celebrations included gatherings at Kabul’s Loya Jirga Hall and public events across the country. Taliban officials highlighted what they called improvements in security, stability and economic self-reliance, while calling for stronger international engagement.
However, the anniversary has also renewed international criticism over Afghanistan’s human rights and humanitarian situation. UN officials have warned of a worsening rights crisis, particularly because girls remain barred from education beyond the sixth grade and women face extensive restrictions on education, employment, movement and participation in public life.
The Taliban remains formally recognised by only Russia, although several countries maintain diplomatic contacts with the authorities in Kabul. Regional powers have increasingly engaged with the Taliban on issues including trade, security, migration and regional connectivity, even as concerns over human rights remain unresolved.
Afghanistan also continues to face significant humanitarian pressures, including poverty, drought, natural disasters and displacement. Aid organisations have warned that humanitarian needs have increased substantially since the Taliban takeover.
The fifth anniversary therefore presents a contrasting picture: the Taliban has consolidated its hold over Afghanistan and expanded regional diplomatic engagement, but questions over international recognition, governance, economic recovery and fundamental rights—particularly those of women and girls—remain central to the country’s future.
