When the Taliban returned: Academics turned first responders
In this podcast episode of When the Taliban Returned, Academics Turned First Responders, Michelle Callender from SOAS speaks with Sobia Kapadia and Neelam Raina about their transformative work on the Culture and Conflict Project, running from 2019 to 2024. This initiative, part of the Global Challenges Research Fund Gender, Justice and Security Hub, focused on supporting Afghan women artisans in South Asia, particularly in Afghanistan. Neelam and Sobia explore how creative cultural practices can empower women in fragile, conflict-affected settings and share the incredible resilience of their Afghan partners, especially during the twin crises of COVID-19 and the fall of Kabul in 2021.
The project aimed to unite women through shared traditions, focusing on Afghan textile crafts like embroidery, to provide economic opportunities and amplify their voices within their communities. Neelam shares how the project’s participatory, co-designed approach allowed them to collaborate closely with local artisans, giving them agency to shape the work according to their needs and aspirations. They highlight the importance of understanding both the practical and emotional challenges these women face, and how the project adapted when COVID forced a shift to remote data collection, using tools like WhatsApp surveys.
As the political landscape in Afghanistan changed dramatically, Neelam and Sobia explain how the project pivoted to prioritise the safety and well-being of their partners. Despite significant obstacles, including funding cuts and increasing security risks, they were able to continue the work, culminating in a successful exhibition of Afghan crafts in the UK, with all proceeds going directly to the artisans.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength and determination of the women involved, and the importance of working in partnership, with deep respect for local knowledge and needs. It shows how, even in the face of immense challenges, unexpected opportunities can arise, leaving lasting, positive impacts on both the individuals involved and the wider community.