When the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021, it sought to reassure Afghans and the international community that the rights of women and girls would be respected and that they would remain active members of Afghan society. Nearly a year and a half later, however, the situation for women and girls in the country is dire.

The Taliban has effectively barred women and girls from secondary schools and universities. It has restricted their employment, and even altogether banned their presence in many public spaces. What does this mean for the future of Afghanistan? And is there any hope in sight for Afghan women?

On UpFront, Marc Lamont Hill speaks to former Afghan ambassador to the United States, Adela Raz.