The European Union said the Taliban must change course and support the rights of girls

In the 12 months since the chaotic withdrawal of the United States and its allies, some Afghans have welcomed improved security but struggled with poverty, drought, malnutrition and fading hopes among women that they will play a decisive role in the country’s future.

Afghanistan is physically safer than it was when the hardline Taliban fought foreign forces led by the United States and its Afghan allies, but the economy is under enormous pressure, largely due to the country’s isolation as foreign governments refuse to rule their rulers.

The development aid on which the country depends has been curtailed as the international community demands the Taliban respect the rights of Afghans, especially girls and women, whose access to work and education has been restricted.

“A year after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated and human rights violations have increased on a large scale, especially against women, girls and minorities,” said Josep Borrell, head of foreign policy at the United Nations. Twitter.

“I call on those in the de-facto authority in Kabul to reverse these unacceptable decisions and behaviour,” he added.

Nearly 25 million Afghans now live in poverty – more than half the population, and the United Nations estimates that up to 900,000 jobs could be lost this year as the economy stagnates.

Civil society and independent media have also shrunk, and many of its members have left the country. The United Nations Mission in Afghanistan said in a recent report that the group had beaten opponents by arresting journalists, activists and demonstrators.