Afghan Musicians Escape to Portugal to Save Their Music from Taliban Ban

Afghan Musicians Find Refuge in Portugal to Preserve Their Music

The Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan has brought a chilling silence to the country, with music now considered a crime. However, a glimmer of hope shines in the northern Portuguese city of Braga, where the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) has found refuge.

ANIM, once a symbol of progress and women's empowerment in Kabul, now operates from a modest building in Braga. Led by director Ahmad Sarmast, the institute has become a sanctuary for over 70 musicians and staff who fled the Taliban's brutal regime.

The institute's journey to Portugal was a desperate race against time. Following the Taliban's takeover in August 2021, Sarmast and his team scrambled to secure the safety of their students, many of whom were targeted for their involvement in music. Portugal emerged as the only country to offer immediate assistance, ultimately facilitating the evacuation of 273 people, including musicians, instructors, and staff.

The relocation to Portugal has not been without its challenges. The musicians faced cultural shock, homesickness, and the trauma of separation from their families. However, they have found solace in their shared passion for music, finding ways to adapt and thrive in their new environment.

The institute's future remains uncertain, but hope persists. The Portuguese government has granted approval for the musicians' families to join them in Portugal, offering the possibility of reunification after years of separation. Meanwhile, the institute's performances, including an upcoming event at Carnegie Hall, serve as a powerful reminder of the Taliban's oppressive regime and a call for international action to protect Afghan culture and human rights.

The story of the Afghan musicians in Portugal is a testament to the enduring power of music and the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, the pursuit of art and the expression of one's identity can remain a beacon of hope.