Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, religious minorities such as Shia Muslims, Hazaras, Sikhs, Hindus, and Christians have faced severe persecution. Harassment, targeted attacks, and restrictions on worship have left these groups vulnerable and fearful. 

The Taliban’s authoritarian interpretation of Islam and failure to protect minorities from extremist violence have created a climate of insecurity that threatens the survival of non-Sunni communities in Afghanistan. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Religious persecution has deep roots in Afghanistan’s history. The Hazara, a Shia Muslim minority, have long suffered massacres, discrimination, and exclusion from political life. Sikhs and Hindus, once thriving communities, have dwindled dramatically due to years of violence and migration. Christians, though small in number, are forced to practise in secrecy. 

The Taliban’s earlier rule in the 1990s was marked by brutal persecution, and their return in 2021 has revived these fears. Extremist groups such as ISIS-K further compound the dangers, frequently targeting minority places of worship with bombings. 

Page 3 — Forms of Persecution 
Religious minorities in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan face various forms of repression and violence: 

- Targeted violence: Hazara and Shia communities bombed in mosques and schools. 
- Restrictions on worship: Sikhs and Hindus prevented from practising openly, temples attacked. 
- Forced displacement: Minority families driven from their homes and regions. 
- Legal discrimination: Lack of recognition or protection under Taliban governance. 
- Social marginalisation: Minorities face economic exclusion and stigma in daily life. 

These patterns force many minorities to flee Afghanistan for safety abroad. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Minorities and Afghanistan 
The persecution of minorities has devastating consequences. Communities are shrinking rapidly, with many seeking refuge in Pakistan, India, or further abroad. Families are torn apart, cultural heritage is lost, and centuries-old communities face extinction. 

For Afghanistan as a whole, the exclusion of minorities weakens national unity and destroys the social fabric. Continued violence and repression undermine stability and perpetuate cycles of conflict. 

Internationally, Afghanistan’s reputation suffers as the Taliban fail to meet even basic human rights standards, further isolating the regime from recognition and aid. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Protecting religious minorities in Afghanistan requires urgent and coordinated action. 

Key steps include: 
- Guaranteeing freedom of religion: allow all Afghans to practise their faith without fear. 
- Community protection: safeguard minority worship sites and communities. 
- Accountability: investigate and prosecute attacks on minorities. 
- International advocacy: maintain global pressure on the Taliban to respect human rights. 
- Humanitarian support: provide aid and asylum pathways for persecuted groups. 

Until such reforms occur, Afghanistan’s religious minorities will continue to suffer severe persecution, leaving the country poorer, more divided, and isolated from the global community.