Afghanistan, five years on: our correspondent visits
Aug 14, 2026 · 26m
Summary
This episode examines Afghanistan five years after the Taliban takeover, highlighting consolidated hardliner power, widespread poverty, and restricted freedoms. It also covers the aftermath of a major earthquake in Colombia, noting uneven disaster responses and political tensions. Finally, the show honors mountaineer Nirmal Purja, who died in an avalanche while attempting to climb all 14 eight-thousanders.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Crown Skin and Backmarket
Intro: Colombia quake and Nirmal Purja obituary
Five years later: Life under Taliban rule in Afghanistan
Hardliner consolidation and humanitarian crisis
Women's rights, isolation, and Western engagement
Future outlook and Insider video series promo
Colombia earthquake: Immediate aftermath and stories
Government response and regional disparities in aid
Ad break: Crown Skin
Nirmal Purja: Early life and Project Possible
Climbing methods, criticism, and military background
Relationship with mountains and tragic death
Preview: TikTok humanitarianism and credits
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