Intelligence Squared Afghanistan: What Next?
Aug 20, 2021
Shabnam Nasimi, a British-Afghan activist dedicated to Afghan rights, shares her emotional turmoil to see the Taliban regain power. Shadi Hamid, a Brookings Institution fellow, discusses the broader geopolitical fallout of the U.S. withdrawal, raising concerns about America’s commitment to global leadership. Jeremy Bowen, the BBC’s Middle East editor, examines how this impacts international relations, particularly with allies like the EU and Taiwan. The conversation reflects on urgent action for Afghan refugees, emphasizing the need for ongoing global support amidst rising despair.
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Family Fleeing Taliban
- Shabnam Nasimi's family fled Afghanistan in 1999 due to the Taliban, fearing for her future as a girl.
- Witnessing the Taliban's return to power after 20 years of international investment felt like a heartbreaking dream.
Betrayal and Abandonment
- President Biden's statement that Afghans should have fought for themselves angered Nasimi, as Afghan forces did fight but lacked essential support.
- Nasimi believes the US withdrawal demonstrates a loss of global leadership and reliability in promoting human rights.
Failed Peace Process
- Nasimi blames the US for the Trump-era deal with the Taliban, which lacked conditions and empowered the group.
- She criticizes the Afghan government's corruption and lack of engagement with the people during peace talks.
