Connecting Afghans: Unlocking Hope and Promise

As the second anniversary of the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan approaches, the international community is still divided on how to engage with the country and its new administration. While some argue for isolation, it is crucial to differentiate between political isolation of the Taliban regime and the abandonment of Afghan civilians. The Afghan people, especially women and girls, need support beyond humanitarian assistance, including investment, essential services, and economic growth. One way to support them is by ensuring adequate internet access, as currently only a quarter of men and 6% of women have basic internet services. If Afghanistan is abandoned, the humanitarian crisis and climate change will worsen, leading to increased desperation and migration. The people of Afghanistan deserve connectivity and all the hope and promise it brings.