Following Russia’s decision to formally recognize the Taliban rule, women say the Taliban lack domestic legitimacy and that Moscow has endorsed a regime built on suppression.
They argue that, nearly four years since the Taliban returned to power, the group has made no effort to gain the public’s trust, instead intensifying its repression — particularly against women. By granting external legitimacy, critics say, Russia has effectively sanctioned the systematic exclusion of half the population.
The United Human Rights Alliance, a coalition of rights activists, lawyers and civil society leaders, called the move a clear violation of the United Nations Charter and democratic principles. In a statement, the alliance said that Russia’s recognition of a regime that rules through fear and coercion “strips meaning from international commitments to protect civilians, especially women and minorities.”
“Governments that come to power through force, terror, or repression have no legal or political legitimacy,” the statement read. “Official recognition of such regimes not only lacks foundation, but also violates the global responsibility to defend the rights of the oppressed.”
Women across Afghanistan expressed outrage, saying the Taliban’s policies have deprived them of education, employment, and public participation. “We have been barred from school and work for four years,” said a woman in Kabul. “Russia’s decision legitimizes our oppression.”
In Farah Province, another resident warned that normalization should not come at the cost of ignoring human rights. “Any country that engages with this government must confront the reality of daily violations,” he said.
Political analyst Najib-ur-Rahman Shamal said the move is inconsistent with international norms and human rights law. “The Taliban have not been elected and have no mandate from the Afghan people,” he said. “Recognition by Russia goes against U.N. conventions, particularly those on human rights.”
Human rights advocate Zohal Rad echoed those concerns. “Recognition of the Taliban will not solve Afghanistan’s problems,” she said. “They must earn legitimacy from the people — not through force, and not through foreign validation.”
Russia’s decision stands in stark contrast to the position of most of the international community, which has linked recognition to demonstrable improvements in human rights. It also comes as the International Criminal Court has requested arrest warrants for top Taliban leaders on charges of widespread abuse.
