Four years after a tumultuous and deadly U.S. withdrawal ended two decades of war, Afghanistan is once again under Taliban control. Human rights violations and food insecurity dominate daily life, underscoring the profound challenges still facing the Afghan people.
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Global Conflicts
International Politics
Political Movements
Four years after U.S. withdrawal, human rights violations and food insecurity dominate Afghan life
Photo by Wbur
Key Takeaways:
- Four-year anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal
- Frenzied and deadly final days of American involvement
- Taliban back in power after 20 years of war
- Serious human rights violations reported under Taliban rule
- Ongoing food insecurity affecting Afghan communities
Introduction
The United States’ departure from Afghanistan took place four years ago, marking the conclusion of a 20-year conflict. This exit, described as “frenzied — and deadly,” left the country once more under the rule of the fundamentalist Taliban.
The Frenzied Withdrawal
In the whirlwind final days of August four years ago, U.S. forces made their exit amid chaotic scenes that underscored the tension of a war whose end had long been promised. Questions remain about the enduring humanitarian costs of that rapid withdrawal, which was accompanied by violence and uncertainty.
Human Rights Under the Taliban
Since the Taliban returned to power, international observers have reported a rise in human rights violations. Limits on personal freedoms and reported abuses draw attention to the precarious state of everyday life. These reports, though often difficult to verify, highlight the ongoing challenges for those still living under Taliban rule.
Food Insecurity
Alongside the deteriorating human rights situation, food insecurity has emerged as a pressing crisis. Many Afghans struggle to find enough to eat, and the fragile economy—further strained by years of conflict—offers limited opportunities for relief. This widespread hunger underscores the urgency of the humanitarian challenges facing the country today.
Conclusion
Four years on, the promise of peace remains elusive for Afghanistan. The legacy of the war’s final moments continues to echo through living conditions shaped by human rights concerns and an urgent need for basic necessities. As the international community looks on, questions persist about Afghanistan’s path forward under Taliban leadership.
