Thursday briefing: Why EU-Taliban talks have sparked outrage among Afghan women
The European Union's decision to engage in talks with the Taliban has sparked outrage among Afghan women, who have faced growing oppression in the last five years. The talks, which focused on deporting Afghan migrants, have been met with widespread criticism and accusations that the EU is legitimizing a repressive regime. The EU's actions have been seen as a profound shift in how the organization balances security and human rights, with many arguing that it prioritizes the former over the latter.
- ▪The EU has been vocal in condemning the Taliban's treatment of women and girls, but has still chosen to engage in talks with the regime.
- ▪The talks between the EU and the Taliban focused on deporting Afghan migrants, particularly those who pose a security threat.
- ▪The EU's decision to engage with the Taliban has been met with angry protests and condemnation from human rights campaigners.
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There is increasing concern over restrictions imposed on women across Afghanistan. Photograph: Francesco Militello Mirto/NurPhoto/ShutterstockView image in fullscreenThere is increasing concern over restrictions imposed on women across Afghanistan. Photograph: Francesco Militello Mirto/NurPhoto/ShutterstockFirst Edition newsletterTalibanThursday briefing: Why EU-Taliban talks have sparked outrage among Afghan women In today’s newsletter: Amid rising anti‑immigration rhetoric across Europe, the decision to engage with the Taliban signals a profound shift in how the EU balances security and human rightsLibby BrooksThu 25 Jun 2026 01.47 EDTLast modified on Thu 25 Jun 2026 01.48 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleGood morning. It’s a slap in the face.
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