Watch Leaving Afghanistan

Leaving Afghanistan is a gripping new documentary series produced by the BBC Select that takes an in-depth look at the recent history and tumultuous past of Afghanistan through the eyes of British and Afghan soldiers, civilian aid workers, and local civilians who have experienced the devastating impact of war and conflict first-hand.

The series spans over four gripping episodes and offers a unique and unprecedented insight into the daily struggles and challenges faced by those who have been directly or indirectly affected by the 20-year long war that has ravaged Afghanistan. It delves deep into the human stories and experiences that lie behind the headlines and political rhetoric that have come to define the conflict, and offers a compelling and thought-provoking perspective on the lasting impact of war and conflict on individuals, communities, and entire nations.

The first episode sets the stage for the rest of the series by tracing the origins of the war back to the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in 2001, when the United States and its allies invaded Afghanistan with the aim of ousting the Taliban and rooting out Al Qaeda. It explores how the war quickly evolved into a protracted and costly conflict that has claimed the lives of thousands of soldiers from both sides, as well as countless Afghan civilians who have been caught up in the crossfire.

The second episode takes a more personal and intimate approach, focusing on the experiences of British soldiers who have deployed to Afghanistan and the impact that the war has had on their lives and mental health. It chronicles the highs and lows of military life in Afghanistan, from the adrenaline-fueled thrill of combat to the emotionally draining reality of losing comrades and grappling with the trauma of war.

The third episode zooms in on the experiences of civilian aid workers and journalists who have risked their lives to help the people of Afghanistan amid the chaos and violence of war. It highlights the challenges faced by NGOs and aid organizations in providing essential services to local communities amidst the pervasive insecurity and mounting threats to their safety.

The final episode chronicles the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 and the devastating impact it has had on the country and its people. It explores the human toll of the war, from the displacement of millions of people to the resurgence of the Taliban and the uncertain future that lies ahead for Afghanistan and its people.

Overall, Leaving Afghanistan is a powerful and sobering documentary series that tackles one of the most pressing and urgent issues of our times with sensitivity, insight, and compassion. It offers a rare and unflinching glimpse into the human cost of war and the resilience of the human spirit, and is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the complex and multifaceted nature of conflict in the modern world.

Leaving Afghanistan is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on August 13, 2022.