Afghan Witness Reports

While the protest garnered widespread support on social media, the women involved were also targeted with a range of criticism and hate speech.

The incident triggered various reactions and claims on both sides of the border – and is set against a backdrop of rising political tensions between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban.

While events around the country took place largely peacefully, uniformed Taliban were recorded violently breaking up events in the capital.

At least 13 journalists were reportedly arrested by the Taliban between July 20 and August 13.

Analysis also reveals an absence of larger weaponry that was prominent in previous images released by the group.

Afghan women and girls are seeking education opportunities outside of Afghanistan – but for many, numerous obstacles stand in their way.

Afghan Witness reflects on some of the key takeaways of the project’s collaborative event with Etilaatroz. How have Afghan media outlets had to adapt under Taliban rule – and how can open source help them?

Report by Afghan Witness details more than 3,000 claims of human rights violations in Afghanistan under Taliban rule

Verifiable videos circulated online showing the Taliban using a water cannon and gunfire into the air to disperse protesters.

While cases are difficult to fully verify, there has been a steady stream of claims since the Taliban’s return to power.

The incident marks the second official public execution sanctioned by the Taliban's Supreme Court since 2022 – though visual evidence has been limited.

The social media influencer has allegedly been arrested twice, with both occasions coinciding with him making critical comments towards Afghanistan’s neighbours.