Afghan exile Zahra Joya warns of Taliban's fear tactics and digital control over women

Afghan writer and journalist Zahra Joya, now based in Britain, recounts how the Taliban's resurgence has imposed a harsh regime that relies on fear and modern surveillance to control society. She explains that while a large portion of the population rejects the Taliban's rigid Sharia interpretation, mobilizing opposition remains difficult. The regime has introduced numerous local directives that further restrict women's movement, education and public presence, effectively imprisoning them at home.

Joya shares harrowing accounts of women being detained, sexually abused, and filmed for intimidation. She also criticizes the lack of international feminist attention to Afghanistan's plight, contrasting it with more visible support for other conflicts. Through her outlet Rukhshana Media, Joya seeks to give a voice to Afghan women while maintaining their anonymity for safety.