Daily Mail Report Exposes Bacha Bazi Abuse in Afghanistan, June 01

The Daily Mail published an investigation on May 30 documenting the continued practice of bacha bazi—the sexual enslavement of young boys—in Afghanistan. The report draws on victim testimonies and historical records, implicating Taliban officials and local commanders in the abuse. Survivors face severe psychological and physical injuries, addiction, poverty, and social exclusion with minimal access to support services.

What the Investigation Found

The Daily Mail report documents that bacha bazi persists on a widespread and clandestine basis in Afghanistan. Children from impoverished families are forced to dress in women’s clothing and makeup, perform before groups of powerful men, and then subjected to sexual abuse. During the Taliban’s war against the previous government, the group deployed dozens of boys in Uruzgan province to lure and assassinate police commanders. In 2016 alone, this method succeeded in documented cases that left dozens of soldiers and police officers dead.

Survivors Face Barriers to Recovery

Victims of bacha bazi emerge from years of rape, violence, and abuse with severe consequences. Survivors experience depression, substance abuse, homelessness, and severe emotional trauma. The investigation found that many victims lack psychological, medical, or social support after years of exploitation. International aid reductions since 2021 have significantly weakened access to rehabilitation, counseling, and support services for survivors.

Girls Also Vulnerable to Exploitation

Girls in Afghanistan face equal vulnerability to abuse and exploitation. Many are sold into forced marriages by families driven to desperation by economic hardship. The report warns that children and women remain at risk of violence while facing significant barriers in accessing justice, protection, and rehabilitation services. The U.S. Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons assessments have expressed concern over reports of child exploitation and abuse involving minors in Afghanistan.

Taliban Response and Historical Context

The Taliban have not responded to the specific allegations in the report. However, Taliban authorities have previously stated they oppose bacha bazi and consider it prohibited. The practice has existed in Afghanistan for decades and has been associated with different actors and power structures throughout the country’s history. Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for stronger support and protection measures for vulnerable children and survivors.

Final Thoughts

The Daily Mail investigation confirms that bacha bazi abuse persists in Afghanistan despite official Taliban denials. Survivors lack basic support services, and children from poor families remain at severe risk of exploitation and violence.

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