More than three years after the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan, women in the country continue to grapple with increasing restrictions that have severely limited their rights and freedoms. With education, work, and even public visibility curtailed, many Afghan women are turning to artificial intelligence for solace and companionship.
Lima, an 18-year-old from rural Afghanistan, shared how AI has become her virtual friend in an otherwise isolating existence. “I read novels or chat with AI to empty every single word of me—to talk, ask questions, or simply treat it as a friend,” she told the BBC. AI applications allow users to create characters based on their favorite idols, enabling them to hold conversations, ask questions, and simulate human interaction. “You can give yourself a fake hope and make them your friend or family,” Lima added.
Since the Taliban swiftly took control in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the regime has enforced strict policies that have severely impacted Afghan women. Girls have been barred from studying beyond grade six, women have been excluded from the workforce, and even basic freedoms such as going to salons or the gym have been stripped away. Public appearances without full-body coverings and male guardians are also prohibited. In January, the Taliban introduced new rules banning windows in residential buildings to prevent women from being seen outside their homes. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid justified the decision on X, formerly Twitter, stating that visibility of women in public spaces could lead to “obscene acts.”
Zarina, a psychologist, reflected on the drastic changes that have affected Afghan women’s lives. “Some were separated from their loved ones, some faced economic hardship, some lost their jobs, schoolgirls were deprived of education, and university students were left with unfulfilled dreams,” she said.
For many, the days of normal social interaction are now distant memories. Freshta, another Afghan woman, shared how she has not been on a proper outing since the Taliban takeover. “Our activities are very limited. We mostly stay on our phones, reading books, or browsing information online,” she said. Even family gatherings have become rare, leaving many women feeling further isolated. “I remember the last time we had a proper outing—just a week before the Taliban government took over. Now, those days feel like a distant memory, and it makes me incredibly sad.”
