Afghanistan marked five years of Taliban rule on Saturday with flag-filled streets, military convoys and public celebrations in Kabul, while critics warned that restrictions on women, journalists and other groups have tightened across the country.
Afghans travelled through the capital on motorbikes, rickshaws and pickup trucks decorated with the white Taliban flag. Hundreds gathered near the former US embassy, taking photographs and waving flags as patriotic and religious music played.
Military vehicles, including Humvees left behind by foreign forces, moved through Kabul in convoys. Security forces carrying rifles were deployed around the crowds, while military helicopters flew over the city.
Government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid described the anniversary as a historic moment that would be remembered in Afghanistan’s history. Authorities also planned cricket and other sporting events, although women and girls are barred from attending many public activities.
The Taliban seized Kabul on August 15, 2021, following a rapid offensive that brought down the internationally backed Afghan government as US-led forces completed their withdrawal. The takeover ended two decades of foreign military presence but ushered in sweeping changes to daily life.
Taliban officials say their administration has improved security and is developing the country’s economy. University student Pirooz Mirzaie, 20, said the government had delivered greater security and infrastructure projects while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs.
However, he said a lack of employment remained one of the biggest problems facing young Afghans.
The country’s economic situation remains difficult. The World Bank has estimated real economic growth at 4.8%, but GDP per capita has declined as millions of Afghans have returned from neighbouring Iran and Pakistan in recent years.
International criticism has focused heavily on the treatment of women and girls. Ireland’s Foreign Minister Helen McEntee said Afghan women had faced years of discrimination affecting education, employment, freedom of movement and participation in public life.
Girls are generally prohibited from education beyond the age of 12, while women face extensive restrictions on employment and access to public spaces.
UN officials have also warned about the wider human rights situation. Fiona Frazer, human rights director for the UN mission in Afghanistan, said restrictions had spread into many areas of everyday life.
Press freedom has also deteriorated, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists, which has reported cases of journalists being detained, beaten, censored or forced into exile.
Despite establishing relations with several countries, the Taliban government remains formally recognised only by Russia. Relations with neighbouring Pakistan have also deteriorated sharply, adding to Afghanistan’s humanitarian and economic difficulties.
For many Afghans, the anniversary therefore carried contrasting meanings: a government celebrating five years in power while large sections of society continue to face economic hardship and restrictions on basic freedoms.
