The European Union has noted the troubling security developments in Afghanistan following the assassination of a former Afghan lawmaker, Mursal Nabizada. The incident underscores ongoing risks faced by the Afghan population, with women often bearing the brunt of violence and insecurity. In public remarks, EU spokesperson Nabila Massrali highlighted the gravity of the situation and expressed sympathy to Nabizada’s family while wishing a swift recovery to the injured. Massrali also affirmed EU condolences and stressed the need for accountability in the attacks that target political figures and civil society members.
Nabizada, who served as a member of parliament during the government prior to the Taliban’s return to power, was fatally shot at his residence in Kabul’s Ahmad Shah Baba district along with his bodyguard. The attack occurred on a recent Sunday, and the attack remains officially unnamed in terms of responsibility. The incident adds to a pattern of targeted killings that Afghan authorities and international observers have long described as a persistent security challenge in the country.
Repeated statements from Afghan government sources have attributed such violence to militant groups operating within the country, with the Taliban regime facing ongoing scrutiny over the security environment. In recent years, various factions have been blamed for separate assaults on political leaders, journalists, religious figures, and other prominent civil society members. The most recent claim of responsibility by the Islamic State group for assaults on key Afghan figures has intensified concerns about the reach and intent of extremist networks in the region.
Nabizada chose to stay in Afghanistan after the fall of the former administration and during the chaotic evacuation period that followed the withdrawal of international forces. His decision contrasted with many government officials who left the country, seeking safety abroad. The broader backdrop includes decades of conflict and coercive governance that have reshaped Afghan life in fundamental ways.
Since Kabul fell to opposing forces in August 2021, Afghan society has seen significant restrictions. The safety and freedoms of women have been repeatedly curtailed, including the closure of universities and secondary schools and broader gender-based restrictions in public life. Observers note that these measures have limited women’s access to education, professional opportunities, and public participation. In addition, there have been mandates requiring women to wear head coverings in public and to be accompanied by a male relative for long journeys. These developments have sparked domestic and international concern about human rights progress in Afghanistan.
Fundamental restrictions have also impacted women’s roles within government and civil leadership structures. The broader political climate has created a challenging environment for advocates of women’s rights and for those who seek inclusive political participation. International dialogues continue to pressure parties in Afghanistan to protect civilians and respect basic rights, while also addressing the ongoing security threats that fuel instability and risk to everyday life.
Analysts emphasize that the cycle of violence in Afghanistan is driven by a combination of factional tensions, militant ideologies, and external influences. The constant threat of attacks against high-profile figures—whether political, religious, or cultural—contributes to an atmosphere of fear and impedes democratic development. In this context, the international community monitors human rights conditions closely, urging safe access to education for girls and equal participation in public life as essential components of Afghanistan’s long-term stability.
Observers reiterate that the burden of conflict has disproportionately affected women, who face barriers to education, employment, and political representation. The international community continues to call for accountability, protection of civilians, and the upholding of universal rights as Afghanistan navigates a precarious security landscape.