Masouda Jalal: Holding a Bonn-Like Conference is the Solution to Afghanistan's Crisis

Referring to the Taliban's return in August 2021, she said, "Everything was lost, but Afghanistan's problem is solvable." She stated, "They brought back the darkness that we had fought so hard to escape."

Ms. Jalal, who served as Minister of Women's Affairs from 2004 to 2006, emphasized, "It is challenging, but not impossible, and it can be resolved."

She added that although Taliban officials had promised not to bring back the "brutalities" of their first rule, over the past three years, they have imposed a harsh interpretation of Islamic laws, including the return of public floggings and executions.

In the interview, Masouda Jalal suggested holding a global conference under the auspices of the United Nations, similar to the Bonn Conference in 2001, as a solution to Afghanistan's crisis.

She stressed, "The political regime in Kabul is not supported by the people, and the world does not recognize it, yet it supports it. This makes no sense. So why continue this? Millions are suffering there."

Ms. Jalal, pointing to the responsibility of the international community, said, "The world should not continue to watch this situation." She added that with a bit of international will, pressure could be exerted on Taliban officials and their supporters to ensure their participation.

These remarks come as the Taliban, through repressive policies, especially against women and girls, have spread fear and despair in Afghanistan. The international community has repeatedly called on the Taliban to respect human rights, but the group has so far shown no signs of changing its approach.