Afghanistan has renewed its demand for greater representation at the United Nations, with the Taliban administration seeking inclusion among countries represented at the world body. Recent reports from Kabul said the regime has also dismissed allegations that it is preventing women from working as “propaganda” being spread outside the country. The Taliban has remained without formal recognition from the UN and most of its member states since taking control of Afghanistan in August 2021.
Russia became the first country to formally recognise the Taliban government in 2025, following several diplomatic developments, including Moscow’s decision to remove the Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations and its acceptance of a Taliban ambassador. Russia’s recognition remains significant as other countries continue to maintain varying levels of diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan without formally recognising the current regime.
Around two dozen countries reportedly maintain de facto diplomatic relations with the Taliban at different levels. Countries including Russia and China have accredited Taliban diplomats and maintain diplomatic missions in Kabul, although China has not formally recognised the Taliban government. The ongoing diplomatic engagement reflects the complex international approach towards Afghanistan’s current rulers.
