Taliban mark fourth anniversary of return to power amid mixed international stance
On Friday, August 15, the Taliban marked the fourth anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan, buoyed by recent diplomatic recognition from Russia and hopeful that other nations might follow.
Commemorations took place across several cities, including Kabul, where helicopters were scheduled to drop flowers and the white-and-black flags of the “Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan” adorned the streets for what they call “Victory Day,” marking the capture of the capital on August 15, 2021.
On Thursday evening, Taliban supporters gathered near the road to the former U.S. embassy, waving flags and setting off fireworks. However, unlike previous years, the large military parade traditionally held at Bagram Air Base was cancelled without official explanation.
Despite some diplomatic progress, the Taliban government remains largely isolated on the global stage, criticized for restrictive policies based on an ultra-strict interpretation of Islamic law, particularly targeting women. Afghan women have been banned from universities, gyms, beauty salons, parks, and many jobs.
In early July, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for two Taliban leaders for the persecution of Afghan women. Still, Kabul has strengthened ties — officially or unofficially — with countries such as China, the UAE, and Central Asian states, as well as engaging in talks with Western diplomats from Norway, the UK, and the U.S.
UN human rights experts reiterated their call for the international community not to normalize relations with what they describe as a “violent and authoritarian regime” that lacks legitimacy and disregards human rights, equality, and non-discrimination.
