The Afghan conflict has deep roots in Afghanistan's strategic location and the clash of ideologies and global interests. Starting in 1979, the Soviet invasion marked a critical turning point, as Afghanistan became a Cold War battleground. With Western powers, particularly the United States, funding Afghan mujahideen fighters, the conflict set the stage for decades of instability. After the Soviet withdrawal in 1989, Afghanistan faced civil war and the rise of the Taliban, who took control in the mid-1990s. Their strict, oppressive rule affected all aspects of life, especially limiting the rights of women and girls. Following the 9/11 attacks, the United States led an invasion of Afghanistan to dismantle terrorist networks, sparking a lengthy and costly conflict that lasted until 2021, when international forces withdrew, and the Taliban regained control.

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He NameD Me Malala

He Named Me Malala, a documentary about Malala Yousafzai, highlights the impact of extremism on young people and the importance of education, especially for girls. Malala, who grew up in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, spoke out against the Taliban’s oppressive rule and their ban on girls' education. In 2012, Malala was attacked by Taliban gunmen but survived and became a global symbol of resilience and a Nobel laureate. The documentary showcases her courage and dedication to advocating for girls’ rights, using her personal story to highlight broader issues related to extremism and conflict.

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The film draws parallels between her struggle and those faced by Afghans, particularly women, under Taliban rule. It emphasizes the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and resistance against extremism, encouraging viewers to consider the role of global support in advancing rights in conflict-affected regions.

 

       CHECK YOUR LEARNING​

1. What were the main causes of the Afghan conflict, and how did the Soviet invasion impact the region?

2. Who were the mujahideen, and why were they supported by Western countries?

3. How did the rise of the Taliban change life for Afghans, particularly women?

4. What were the main goals of the U.S.-led invasion in Afghanistan in 2001?

5. What challenges did Afghanistan face following the withdrawal of foreign forces in 2021?

6. Who is Malala Yousafzai, and what motivated her activism?

7. Describe the incident that made Malala a global figure.

8. How does He Named Me Malala connect to the themes of education and resistance?

9. What message does the documentary convey about the role of education in conflict-affected areas?

10. How does Malala’s story inspire action for global education rights?