Photos of Afghanistan..

Afghanistan is a land of striking contrasts—where breathtaking mountain landscapes and bustling bazaars coexist with the scars of war and oppressive traditions.

Though it holds a deep and proud cultural legacy, the country’s recent history has been overshadowed by conflict, political turmoil, and the unwavering strength of its people facing incredible hardship.

Many outside observers often reflect with quiet relief: “I’m lucky I wasn’t born in Afghanistan.” This thought isn’t meant to judge, but to acknowledge the privileges of freedom—freedom to speak, learn, and live without constant fear.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Afghanistan had a very different image. Cities like Kabul were alive with culture, education, and progress, offering hope for a bright, modern future.

Women were active in public life, wearing modern clothing, attending universities, and working in professions such as medicine and journalism. Arts, music, and festivals were part of the everyday experience.

However, that progress was shattered by years of war, foreign involvement, and the emergence of hardline ideologies. When the Taliban took power in the 1990s, many freedoms were stripped away.

Under Taliban control—a group labeled as a terrorist organization by the UN and others—Afghanistan became a place where women disappeared from public life, girls’ schools were shut down, and self-expression was punished.