US porn star's visit to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan sparks outrage

UPDATED: Mar 6, 2025 22:49 IST

A recent visit by American adult film star Whitney Wright to Afghanistan has ignited a storm of criticism, particularly among Afghan women who continue to face extreme restrictions under Taliban rule. Her trip, which was shared on social media, has raised serious questions about the Taliban’s policies and the treatment of women in the country.

Wright’s presence in Afghanistan has shocked many, especially given the Taliban’s strict laws that severely limit women’s freedoms. Afghan women are banned from attending school, working in most professions, and even visiting public spaces such as parks and gyms. Yet, a foreign adult film actress was seemingly allowed to travel freely. This stark contrast has fueled anger and frustration among Afghan activists.

The Taliban has enforced some of the world’s harshest restrictions on women, leaving them with little to no autonomy in their daily lives. In contrast, Wright was able to tour and document her visit without interference. Afghan women’s rights activist Wazhma Tokhi called this situation “fundamentally hypocritical,” emphasising how Afghan women are denied basic rights while foreign visitors, regardless of their background, receive hospitality.

While the Taliban has not officially commented on Wright’s visit, many are questioning how she was allowed into the country in the first place. The U.S. government has issued strong warnings advising its citizens against travelling to Afghanistan due to security risks, making her presence even more controversial. Some speculate that the Taliban is strategically using foreign tourists to create an illusion of stability and openness, despite its oppressive policies toward Afghan women.

The United Nations and the Criminal Court (ICC) have been investigating Taliban leaders for gender-based persecution, with some officials even facing potential arrest warrants. Wright’s visit has further fueled debates on the Taliban’s hypocrisy and whether their treatment of women constitutes “gender apartheid.”

As the controversy unfolds, the Taliban remains silent on the backlash surrounding Wright’s visit. The incident has only intensified the ongoing debate about women’s rights, security, and freedom in Afghanistan under the Taliban’s rule.