Operators of private orphanages are warning that the Taliban is shutting down all private care centers and transferring children to state-run facilities. Sources allege the Taliban is seizing assets and intends to use these children for ideological and potentially military purposes.
Reports indicate the Taliban refused to renew operating agreements and issued verbal orders to close the centers. Citizens fear these vulnerable orphans will be brainwashed in Taliban madrasas and trained as future suicide bombers or fighters.
A US State Department report has also stated that the Taliban recruits children as soldiers, with cases of sexual exploitation reported. Afghan artist Shafiq Mureed confirmed that the orphanage he supported was raided and closed, with children moved to unknown government locations.
Fears for Children’s Fate as Taliban Closes Private Orphanages
