Afghanistan’s Voice: Sonita Alizadeh Calls Out the Taliban
Imagine a young Afghan rap star, Sonita Alizadeh, blasting her way out of Kabul when the Taliban were still cycling through 1990s‑style “women‑only‑sweatshops” of restrictions. She escaped with her family when “women could not work, had to cover their faces, and girls were banned from school.”
Today’s “Victory Lap” at the UN
On Tuesday, 21 September, while the United Nations General Assembly was buzzing, Sonita turned her mic to world leaders. She didn’t just want applause—she demanded action.
- “What will remain of our people? And what will remain of the 20 years of achievements?” She warned, “Do not be fooled by the masks the Taliban show on the news.”
- “We have no time.” She pleaded.
- She urged the international community to refuse recognition of the Taliban, guarantee women’s and children’s rights, keep internet access open, ensure Afghan voices in decision‑making, and keep girls in school.
- “It looks like we all know what must be done. But the question is who will take action today?” she asked, echoing a chorus of quiet yet urgent pleas.
Behind the Canvas: The Taliban’s Shift?
The Taliban claim they changed from their 1996‑2001 rule, when women had to stay home unless a male relative was present. Yet the world remains skeptical. UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet voiced real, palpable fear—a return to the brutal, systemic repression of the 1990s.
Concrete Cues from the Taliban
Last week, the Taliban said they’d open schools for high‑school‑aged boys but not girls. The backlash was immediate. UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres reminded everyone last month that the Taliban’s quest for international recognition is the only leverage to press for an inclusive government and respect for women’s rights.
In a nutshell: Sonita Alizadeh is calling out for a world that doesn’t just see the Taliban’s new “mask” but actually backs the people inside Afghanistan.
