Although opium poppy cultivation has been completely banned by the leadership of the Islamic Emirate, a number of residents in Badakhshan have turned to cultivating the crop again this year. Some farmers say that the lack of suitable livelihood alternatives and limited employment opportunities have forced them to continue growing opium poppy.
Giving women in baad — a practice aimed at settling disputes between families — remains a harmful and ongoing custom in some parts of Afghanistan.
A number of youth in Samangan province say they are working to promote a culture of reading among the people, particularly the younger generation, by establishing private libraries and cultural institutions.
The United Nations Population Fund in Afghanistan (UNFPA), on the occasion of the International Day of the Midwife, has announced that in order to save the lives of mothers and newborns, one million more midwives need to be trained.
After several consecutive years of drought, this year’s widespread rainfall in Herat—particularly in the northern districts of the province—has brought renewed hope for increased harvests of grains and legumes. Officials from the Herat Directorate of Agriculture say that the condition of rainfed crops is relatively good, and that this year’s rainfall could mark a different season for agriculture and farmers.
Doctors warn that violence against women during pregnancy has irreversible consequences. However, some women, in interviews with Salam Watandar, describe experiencing severe violence during this period—violence that has even resulted in miscarriages.
The Ministry of Information and Culture, on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, stated that the Islamic Emirate believes in the significance of the media in society and its role in promoting public awareness and strengthening relations between citizens and the government.
North Korea rejected accusations from the United States that it is a cyber threat, saying the claims are fabricated and are being used to justify Washington’s long-standing hostile policy toward Pyongyang.
Shahabuddin Delawar, General President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), said that a specialized hospital for children with congenital heart defects will be built in Kabul in the near future.
Increased self-confidence, skill development, improved educational status, financial independence, and access to better career opportunities are among the achievements that youth say they have gained by making use of available opportunities. These accomplishments demonstrate that opportunities can fundamentally transform the lives of youth and open new paths toward progress and success.
A number of women interviewed by Salam Watandar say that social restrictions have limited their access to in-person educational materials, while online educational resources have become the primary means for continuing their education.
Islamic Sharia and legal experts consider emotional support one of the fundamental pillars of married life and emphasize love, respect, and kind treatment between husband and wife — a right whose violation can even provide grounds for filing for divorce. However, a number of women complain about the lack of affection and emotional understanding in their marriages, saying that the situation has placed them under psychological pressure.
