Economist Podcasts Good, bad and ugly: the Taliban and Afghanistan
May 8, 2023
John Boone, who covers Afghanistan for The Economist, shares insights into the country's current humanitarian crisis, driven by the Taliban's return to power and the dire needs of 28 million people. Nicolas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, highlights the complex resilience of Afghans, especially women grappling with oppression yet finding ways to push back. John Bleasdale discusses how mobile phones have reshaped cinema, especially impactful in genres like horror, showcasing their cultural significance over decades.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Taliban Rule: A Mixed Bag
- The Taliban's return has worsened Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, pushing millions into poverty.
- Despite repressive policies, some improvements like road widening and revenue collection are evident.
Food Insecurity in Afghanistan
- John Boone witnessed food distribution by the World Food Programme, highlighting Afghans' struggles.
- A woman shared how job losses severely impacted her family's ability to afford basic necessities.
Student Struggles and Inflation
- A Kabul University student named Farid Hamad relies on UN food aid due to job scarcity and inflation.
- He explains how food prices have doubled since the Taliban takeover.