A major conference in Islamabad brought together policy experts, diplomats, Afghanistan affairs specialists, researchers and international observers to review the state of Afghanistan five years after the Taliban returned to power, with participants expressing concerns over governance, human rights, economic challenges and regional security.
The conference was organized jointly by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) and South Asia Times and focused on assessing the achievements, challenges and future trajectory of Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
In a declaration issued at the conclusion of the conference, participants said the Taliban government has yet to establish an inclusive political system despite completing five years in power. The declaration noted that promises related to inclusive governance and the protection of fundamental human rights remain largely unmet.
Experts observed that Afghanistan’s traditional consultative mechanisms, including the Shura system, have weakened in recent years, while many Afghans continue to face the consequences of governance shortcomings and limited political participation.
Concerns Over Women’s Rights
The situation of women in Afghanistan emerged as one of the central themes of the conference.
Participants described restrictions on women’s access to education, employment and public life as a matter of serious concern. Speakers emphasized that long-term stability and development would be difficult to achieve without ensuring equal opportunities and meaningful participation for women in society.
The conference declaration stated that the continued exclusion of women from key sectors remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Afghanistan.
Economic Challenges Persist
Experts also highlighted the country’s economic difficulties, pointing to rising unemployment, inflation and declining living standards.
According to participants, many Afghan families continue to struggle with economic uncertainty despite ongoing humanitarian assistance efforts by international organizations. Speakers stressed the importance of economic reforms, investment and employment opportunities to support recovery and improve living conditions.
Regional Security Under Spotlight
Security developments featured prominently in the discussions, with participants examining the implications of militant activity in the region.
The conference declaration stated that groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) continue to pose security concerns for Pakistan and other neighboring countries.
Experts noted that regional cooperation remains essential to addressing cross-border security challenges and promoting long-term stability in South and Central Asia.
Discussion on Armed Resistance
Participants also discussed reports regarding the expansion of armed resistance movements opposed to Taliban rule.
According to the declaration, resistance groups have reportedly expanded their activities into several strategically significant areas, including Kabul, Kandahar and Kunduz. Experts said these developments reflect the complex security landscape facing Afghanistan and could have broader implications for regional peace and security.
Challenges Ahead
Concluding the conference, participants agreed that Afghanistan continues to face significant challenges across governance, security, diplomacy and economic management.
The declaration stated that while five years have passed since the Taliban’s return to power, many of the issues confronting Afghanistan remain unresolved. Participants called for greater engagement with regional and international stakeholders and urged policies aimed at improving governance, protecting fundamental rights and supporting economic recovery.
The conference underscored that Afghanistan’s future will depend not only on addressing internal challenges but also on building constructive relations with neighboring countries and the wider international community.
Key Highlights
- Islamabad conference reviewed five years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan.
- Experts said inclusive governance remains unrealized.
- Concerns raised over restrictions on women’s education and employment.
- Economic challenges, including inflation and unemployment, remain severe.
- Participants discussed security concerns linked to TTP, ISKP and BLA.
- Experts stressed the need for regional cooperation and long-term stability.
