Gender

Amnesty International has issued a stark appeal to governments worldwide: stop the unlawful expulsion of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers.

At a unique event held recently in Tehri district, women of Bugala village were honoured as chief guests by their community at the traditional harvest festival known as Ropani.

In a sobering assessment released this week, the United Nations has painted a complex portrait of Afghanistan under Taliban governance, where a dramatic increase in security incidents coincides with fragile stability, devastating cross-border violence with Pakistan, and a deepening humanitarian and human rights crisis.

The UN experts concluded that ending forced conversions and child marriages is essential for safeguarding human rights and ensuring equal protection under the law for all citizens, regardless of religion.

The international community’s response – through statements, potential aid conditions, or sanctions – will be critical in determining whether such crackdowns face meaningful consequences.

Experts and officials note that the convergence of these schemes – financial inclusion, basic services, and skill enhancement – has created a multiplier effect.

As scooters and motorbikes hit the roads in the coming months and years, they will carry more than just health workers – they will transport hope, expertise, and care to the doorsteps of countless Sri Lankan families.

Experts suggest the Eid address serves multiple purposes: rallying domestic support, discouraging dissent, and messaging the international community ahead of potential future talks. With Akhundzada rarely appearing publicly and operating primarily from Kandahar, his sermons remain key vehicles for policy direction.