What is it like to visit the most dangerous country in the world?

Nearly two and half years since passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in after the US withdrew the last of its troops from the country. Since then, the country has grappled with a humanitarian crisis which has forced millions of Afghans abroad.

Women’s rights and freedoms have been severely restricted since the Taliban takeover in 2021 and girls in Afghanistan can no longer attend school beyond sixth grade.

Meanwhile, Taliban authorities have reportedly increased the arbitrary detention of journalists, human rights defenders and civil society activists while there have been repeated reports of extrajudicial killings and torture and brutal treatment.

European countries, including Ireland, strongly advise against travel to the impoverished Asian country where the Islamic State terror group continues to launch lethal attacks against Shia minorities and the Taliban.

However, a small number of tour operators are now offering trips to Afghanistan for adventurous travellers seeking a trip outside the norm. And while foreign visitors are strongly advised by their governments not to visit the country, some tour operators say bringing tourists to the country is beneficial for Afghan communities.

Journalist Hannah McCarthy discusses the small number of risk-taking tourists who are ignoring the travel advice and choosing to the visit the most dangerous country in the world.

Presented by Sorcha Pollak. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.

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