Return of the Taliban

This project documents the first year of the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan. This series of 15 images captured by between September 2021 and June 2022, encapsulates the complex realities faced by the Afghan people as they witness the return of an oppressive regime. From the streets of Kabul to remote villages in the Taliban heartlands of southern Afghanistan, these images reveal a startling disintegration of human rights following the end of America’s 20 years of war. Each photograph serves as a poignant testament to the country's turbulent history, highlighting the fear and uncertainty of the country’s future. With intimate glimpses into everyday life under Taliban rule, we witness the restrictions imposed on women, the instability of the state and surreal scenes of Taliban celebrations that overshadow many issues facing the country today. This photo essay aims to shed light on the power dynamics, and consequences of America's chaotic withdrawal. It serves as a visual testament to the profound challenges faced by a nation at a crossroads, inviting viewers to bear witness, reflect, and engage in a broader conversation about America's impact on Afghanistan.