The Republic of Veiled Tongues: An Afghan Woman Reports from Inside Afghanistan

• In this Op-Ed, Samreen Makhfi, an Afghan woman, reflects on life in Afghanistan five years after the Taliban's return to power, using August 19, 2026, as a contrast to the country's historical aspirations. She describes the challenges faced by women, including the closure of schools, limited access to professions, and the legal restrictions on women's rights. The article highlights the impact of Decree No. 18, which allows a girl's silence after puberty to be interpreted as consent to marriage.

• The article notes that Afghan men desire female doctors and caregivers but face systemic barriers to education for girls. Women are restricted from public spaces and their access to tourism is limited. The author mentions that even the natural beauty of the country is gendered, with women unable to enjoy certain public spaces. She also discusses the lack of political representation and the absence of a meaningful voice for citizens in the current political climate.

• The article concludes with a poem that reflects on the resilience of the people of Afghanistan, despite the challenges they face. It emphasizes the importance of preserving their story and the ongoing struggle for equality and opportunity. The poem highlights the enduring presence of the people in the heart of Kabul, even as the walls of oppression close in.

AI-generated summary of the original article — see the source for the full story.