Some Afghan citizens have urged the Trump administration to take a serious approach to Afghanistan’s political, economic, and human rights challenges.
Among their key demands is holding the Taliban accountable for their actions, particularly concerning women’s rights.
“Until the Taliban respect human rights and the rights of Afghan women, the international community should not enable their engagement with the world,” said Shabana, a Kabul resident. “Instead, they should pressure the Taliban to comply with human rights standards.”
The position of U.S. special envoy for human rights and women in Afghanistan remains vacant, raising concerns among human rights activists.
“Ensuring the Taliban’s strict adherence to the Doha agreement, particularly on human rights, education, work, and women’s participation in all sectors, must be a priority,” said Sara, a women’s rights activist.
Another Kabul resident, who requested anonymity, emphasized the need for protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children refugees. “Repatriating them to Afghanistan would violate their fundamental human rights,” the resident said.
In addition to human rights concerns, Afghan citizens are calling on President Trump to address Afghanistan’s worsening economic crisis. They warn that failure to act could push the country further toward collapse.
Many expressed disappointment with the Biden administration’s approach to the Taliban, accusing it of engaging with the group without applying sufficient pressure to ensure respect for human rights, especially women’s rights.
“It remains to be seen how Donald Trump will handle the Taliban,” one resident said.
