8am: Widespread poverty and persistent unemployment have severely affected the majority of the citizens of Afghanistan, drastically reducing their purchasing power. Many citizens report that poverty and unemployment have deprived students and university attendees of continuing their education, with numerous families going to bed hungry each night. Over the past three years, the Taliban have not implemented any programs for poverty alleviation, job creation, or service provision for citizens. On the contrary, by imposing heavy taxes and religious levies (Ushr and Zakat), they have made living conditions increasingly difficult. Economic experts assert that the reduction in investments, educational restrictions imposed by the Taliban, and women’s unemployment directly contribute to the rising poverty and unemployment in the country. Click here to read more (external link).