The Intelligence from The Economist Good, bad and ugly: the Taliban and Afghanistan
May 8, 2023
John Boone, a seasoned writer on Afghanistan, shares his insights into the dire humanitarian crisis following the Taliban's return. He discusses the severe toll on women's rights despite some governmental improvements. Joining him is Nicolas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, who delves into the challenges facing Morocco's monarchy and the king's peculiar associations. Their conversation also touches on how mobile phones have reshaped culture and cinema, emphasizing their dramatic disruptions in storytelling.
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Taliban Rule: Mixed Results
- The Taliban's return has worsened Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, with 97% of Afghans now below the poverty line.
- Despite this, Kabul has seen improvements like widened roads and regulated street vendors.
Economic Hardship
- John Boone witnessed food distribution by the World Food Programme, where people received meager rations.
- He spoke with a woman whose family lost jobs and a student relying on UN food aid due to rising prices.
Women's Struggles
- A former TV presenter resorted to prostitution due to the Taliban's restrictions on women.
- She found ways around these rules, like showing her shoes under her burqa.