Economist Podcasts Good, bad and ugly: the Taliban and Afghanistan
May 8, 2023
John Boone, who covers Afghanistan for The Economist, shares insights into the country's current humanitarian crisis, driven by the Taliban's return to power and the dire needs of 28 million people. Nicolas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, highlights the complex resilience of Afghans, especially women grappling with oppression yet finding ways to push back. John Bleasdale discusses how mobile phones have reshaped cinema, especially impactful in genres like horror, showcasing their cultural significance over decades.
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Secret Schools for Girls
- John Boone visited a secret school in Kabul where girls risk their safety for education.
- The school offers basic subjects, and while the local Taliban seem to tolerate it, its future is uncertain.
Engaging with the Taliban
- The US and allies face challenges in aiding Afghanistan due to costs and sustainability.
- Direct engagement with the Taliban may empower pragmatic voices and address critical issues like girls' education.
The King and the Fighters
- Morocco's King Mohammed VI has befriended the Azaita brothers, former MMA fighters with criminal pasts.
- This relationship raises concerns due to their influence and the King's increasing absences.