Kabul residents gathered to mark five years since the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan, yet the commemorations unfolded largely without women in public view, mirroring the restrictions that have come to define the country under its current rulers.
Public gatherings in the capital were dominated by men, with most women absent from the official ceremonies. The scene underscored the social restrictions that have taken hold since the armed group returned to power.
The country remains largely cut off from formal diplomatic relations with much of the world. At the same time, humanitarian needs continue to mount, while women face growing barriers to appearing in public spaces and taking part in national events.
The fifth anniversary passed without any sign that Afghanistan’s international standing or the daily realities for women were about to shift.
