Afghan adult star flees Taliban oppression and shares her story

The Taliban's leadership has been accused of gender discrimination, a claim they label as 'absurd' despite their policies that restrict women's rights and freedoms. Women are banned from most public places and jobs, leading to widespread international condemnation. In response, Australia, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands are set to hold the Taliban accountable under international law for their treatment of women and girls, citing violations of a UN convention to which Afghanistan is a signatory. A woman who previously lived under Taliban rule shared her harrowing experiences, illustrating the brutal violence that permeated her childhood. She recounted witnessing public beatings for not adhering to strict religious dress codes, highlighting the pervasive atmosphere of fear and oppression. Her journey to the UK allowed her to escape this reality, where she learned to read and write, contrasting sharply with her past. The woman expressed her belief that the Taliban is aware of her past as a sex worker, revealing the oppressive mindset that views women's bodies as property. She articulated the Taliban's fear of female sexuality, suggesting that their control over women is rooted in a desire to maintain power and dominance. This situation underscores the broader implications of the Taliban's rule, where violence is not only a tool of oppression but also a means of enforcing gender norms. The international community's response may play a crucial role in addressing these human rights violations and supporting Afghan women in their struggle for autonomy.