The fourth anniversary of the Taliban regime's return to power in Afghanistan was marked by official celebrations from which women were completely excluded. While commemorative events led by men took place in the streets of Kabul, women's voices were intentionally absent. This exclusion was not a surprise, but rather confirmation of a systematic policy that has been relegating women to the private sphere for years.

Since the fall of the previous government, Afghan women have lost their right to secondary and university education, to work in most sectors, to participate in public spaces, and even to freely express their opinions. More than one hundred decrees have been issued with the sole purpose of restricting their freedoms. This has transformed the lives of millions of women who, in just four years, went from the hope of progress to a situation of total repression.

On the anniversary, many women organized silent protests, both within the country and in exile. In several cities, small groups gathered indoors to commemorate the date as a “dark day.” Abroad, especially in neighboring countries, visible demonstrations were held, urging the world not to forget the situation in Afghanistan. These actions demonstrate that, despite the repression, the resistance remains alive.

The international community is watching with growing concern. Humanitarian organizations and human rights defenders denounce Afghanistan as the only country in the world where half the population lives under a regime of institutionalized gender segregation. The call is urgent: condemnation is not enough; concrete actions are needed to guarantee the basic rights of Afghan women.