The BIC notes the one-year anniversary of the return of Taliban rule in Afghanistan, and continues to be concerned at the continued repression of citizens, particularly women and girls whose freedoms to be educated and work have become severely restricted, as well as the escalating poverty crisis causing millions to go without food.
The BIC's Political Analyst, Ben Lowings, said:
"This anniversary marks a failure of the international community to build a resilient political system to improve the lives of citizens in desperate need. Promises made by the Taliban to be less oppressive towards women and girls have, predictably, not materialised. It is imperative that the international community does not forget Afghanistan, and instead remains vigilant in order to ensure greater accountability for the actions of the Taliban, whilst developing more effective access for aid that is desperately needed."