Afghanistan is sliding deeper into a humanitarian tragedy as ordinary citizens—especially women and young people—bear the brunt of policies enforced by the ruling Taliban, activists and observers warn.

Women across Afghanistan are facing severe rights violations, with limited freedom of movement, expression, and access to work. Mothers, trapped by poverty and a lack of social support, describe living conditions that leave them powerless and desperate.

One Afghan woman said the struggle to survive has become unbearable. “We have no job or helper. Making a living is nothing less than death,” she said.

Unthinkable choices

Social activist and journalist Jahanzeb Wisa said extreme poverty has forced some women to consider selling their children to survive. “I am fighting illness and extreme poverty,” he said, adding that the situation exposes what he called the Taliban regime’s false claims of stability and welfare.

Another woman, overwhelmed by hardship, said she is being forced to think about selling her child simply to stay alive.

Youth unemployment fuels migration

According to Wisa, widespread unemployment and the lack of freedom of expression have driven many young Afghans to flee the country. With no prospects at home, youth are risking their lives to escape.

He said several young people have died while attempting to cross the borders of Turkey and Iran in bitter winter conditions, highlighting the deadly consequences of desperation.

International voices speak out

British lawmaker Alice MacDonald has raised her voice in support of Afghan women, calling the situation under Taliban rule “devastating” for both young girls and adult women.

She urged the international community to break its silence, particularly on the issue of girls’ education. “Ignoring discrimination against women in Afghanistan is treason,” she said.

MacDonald said the world must confront what she described as systemic discrimination and the erosion of basic human rights. Activists argue that the dictatorship and failed policies of the Taliban have pushed Afghan society into deep poverty.

As conditions worsen, campaigners are urging governments and international organizations to take meaningful action before the humanitarian crisis deepens further.