Taliban Seek Sanctions Relief at Doha Summit Amid Criticism

In the face of international criticism for its policies on girls’ education and women’s rights, the Taliban appealed for sanctions relief during the third Doha Summit, reports Arshad Mehmood. Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid argued that lifting sanctions and releasing Afghanistan’s frozen funds are vital for the country’s economic stability. Despite not addressing girls’ education and women’s employment directly, Mujahid emphasized the need for respecting Afghanistan’s cultural and religious values to foster bilateral relations.

The summit, organized by the United Nations, marked the first time a Taliban delegation attended such a conference since regaining power. The absence of Afghan women at the meeting drew significant backlash from various international bodies, including the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and Human Rights Watch. Critics, including Amnesty International, condemned the exclusion, highlighting the severe impact on human rights in Afghanistan.

Notably, Canada’s Department of Global Affairs expressed disappointment over the exclusion of non-Taliban Afghan participants. Human rights activists, like Sadia Hashmi, underscored the ongoing marginalization of Afghan women, calling for global support to address these issues.

Arshad Mehmood concludes that while the Taliban views itself as gaining favor with the West, its recognition remains limited to security cooperation against ISIS. For a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics at play, read the full article.