‘Afghanistan will cease to exist if nothing changes’: Activist Mahbouba Seraj Urges Global Dialogue Amidst Taliban Rule

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/27th August 2024

Renowned Afghan women’s rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize nominee Mahbouba Seraj recently shed light on the dire situation of women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. As the Taliban’s grip tightens, Seraj’s insights paint a bleak picture of the current state of affairs, urging for urgent international dialogue with the regime.

Since the Taliban’s resurgence in Kabul on August 15, 2021, the landscape of Afghan society has dramatically shifted, with women bearing the brunt of the consequences. This date, which coincided with Independence Day celebrations in countries like India and South Korea, marked a devastating turn for Afghanistan. The Taliban’s return has been marked by a harsh re-imposition of their restrictive policies, stifling women’s freedoms and rights.

Seraj, a stalwart in the fight for women’s rights, recounted the profound fear and anticipation that accompanied the Taliban’s return. Reflecting on the initial reactions, she noted the grim historical context of Taliban rule but expressed a faint hope for a less brutal regime. Regrettably, this hope has not materialized. Instead, women in Afghanistan are subjected to severe restrictions, including prohibitions on education, employment, and even basic freedoms of movement.

Seraj emphasized the urgent need for global leaders to engage with the Taliban, stressing that dialogue remains the only viable solution to improve the conditions for Afghan women. Despite her efforts, including previous discussions with Taliban spokespersons, progress has been minimal. The dire state of affairs has persisted, with women facing widespread deprivation and public floggings.

Seraj, who lived in exile during the Soviet invasion in the 1970s, returned to Afghanistan in 2003, determined to contribute to her homeland’s recovery. Despite her previous experiences of displacement, she remains resolute in her commitment to stay and support the women of Afghanistan. Her personal resolve underscores her belief in the necessity of her presence in the country, even amidst escalating challenges.

The sense of betrayal felt by many Afghans is palpable, as Seraj highlighted the disappointment with international actions, or lack thereof, in the wake of the Taliban’s takeover. Many Afghans felt abandoned by the global community, a sentiment echoed by Seraj, who noted the inadequacy of international responses to the crisis. Safe houses, once crucial for providing refuge, are no longer as prevalent, leaving many vulnerable.

Seraj’s recent efforts include advocating for the international community to continue engaging with the Taliban and pressing for women’s rights. Her frustration is evident, particularly regarding the lack of female representation in recent international talks and the exclusion of Afghan women from significant global events like the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The activist’s remarks extend beyond the immediate crisis, reflecting on the broader implications of the ongoing situation. She emphasized that Afghanistan’s continued struggle under Taliban rule threatens the very existence of the nation. Without significant changes, she warned that Afghanistan may face irreversible consequences.

Seraj’s call to action underscores the necessity for persistent global engagement and support. Her enduring commitment to the cause of Afghan women, despite personal and political setbacks, highlights the critical need for collective international efforts to address the profound challenges faced by women in Afghanistan. Her message resonates as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and action in the face of grave human rights violations.