Authors:John A. Kirbow Abstract: This article seeks to show how our successes and overall strategic failing in Afghanistan – in particular, the swift takeover by Taliban forces despite two decades of nation-building and partnering – can be a teachable moment. Specifically, how a more realistic, grounded understanding of human nature and decision making, informed by concepts of human incentives, uncertainty, and risk, can assist us in certain warzones. This understanding may be critical in current and future conflicts where the (1) the formal governing system is ineffective, (2) said government tends to be unresponsive to the needs of lower-level leaders and the population, and (3) the culture lends itself to a stronger framework for localized self-governance and decision making.I draw on existing military literature, local ABP/VSO outcomes, and insights into human nature and behavior. Broadly, I attempt to fuse the following themes together in a way that is both academically sound and operationally feasible: Afghan culture and human behavior Bottom-up vs top-down governance Tribal engagement and village stability US Military operational planning and risk assessment methodology (wargaming) Reconciling our approach with realities on the ground for future wars and conflicts PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:50:18 PDT
Authors:Guido Rossi Abstract: The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 highlighted both American unpreparedness for evacuating large numbers of foreign civilians as well over-reliance on local contractors that made the evacuation a task of much greater proportions. As a result, the United States were forced to renege on its promises of protection to many Afghan collaborators who were left behind exposed to Taliban retribution. However, the U.S. could not only have handled the evacuation and resettlement operation of Afghan civilians much more effectively through better contingency planning, interagency communication, and coordination, but it could also have prevented massive reliance on local contractors through better utilization of the human skills already available in the United States. Even though all this could not have turned defeat into victory in Afghanistan, it could have prevented the situation from escalating to a humanitarian crisis. This way, the United States could have been able to evacuate smaller numbers of foreign civilians and uphold promises of protection that are the foundation of U.S. prestige abroad. These lessons need to be learned in case of necessary future involvements overseas that require some degree of reliance on local contractors and hold the potential of emergency evacuations. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:50:10 PDT
Authors:Arif Akgul et al. Abstract: This study examines the application of human security theory in the humanitarian operation at Camp Atterbury, which provided temporary resettlement for over 7,200 Afghan evacuees in the State of Indiana as part of Operation Allies Welcome (OAW). Afghan evacuees were admitted to the US under humanitarian parole and experienced a transitional period since their arrival on August 2021. Using the three pillars of human security: freedom from fear, freedom from want, and freedom to live in dignity, conceptualized by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Kofi Annan, this analysis explores the security measures, essential services, and accommodations implemented to support Afghan refugees. This research utilizes a case study approach focused on Camp Atterbury, using open-source data from official reports and archives, government documentation, media briefings, and records from many institutions and organizations involved in the camp’s six-month operational period. Key areas of evaluation include security measures, healthcare and educational programs, and legal assistance. The analysis reveals that Camp Atterbury implemented a comprehensive human security framework which ensured freedom from fear, freedom from want, and freedom to live in dignity. The findings suggest lessons and policy implications for future humanitarian operations. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:50:00 PDT
Authors:Toghrul Seyidbayli Abstract: This article explores the geopolitical ramifications of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, focusing on how it has catalyzed strategic realignments among China, Russia, and Iran in Eurasia. By examining the withdrawal’s impact on the regional power dynamics, the article analyzes how these revisionist states have exploited the resulting power vacuum to assert their influence and challenge the existing international order. China has used this moment to expand its Belt and Road Initiative, Russia has felt emboldened to escalate its military actions in Ukraine, and Iran, despite regional setbacks, remains determined in pursuing its revisionist strategy in Eurasia. The study employs an analytic and qualitative methodology to identify patterns of geopolitical behavior and alignments. It also integrates relevant literature on post-unipolarity and multipolarity to frame these developments within the broader context of the shifting global order. Ultimately, the article demonstrates that the U.S. withdrawal has contributed to the emergence of a multipolar world, incrementally reshaping the contours of global power competition. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:52 PDT
Authors:Dr.Neeru Sidana et al. Abstract: `Many developing, landlocked countries, such as Nepal and Afghanistan, face significant challenges in accessing international markets, which hinders their development. These issues inspired the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1982, which grants landlocked states the right to navigate through coastal territories for trade. This article investigates how UNCLOS has influenced the transit and trade of Nepal and Afghanistan since the treaty's signing. The research examines the macroeconomic impacts of UNCLOS on these countries, focusing on trade trends and regional cooperation agreements. It analyzes how UNCLOS has facilitated increased trade and new economic activities while highlighting ongoing challenges, including reliance on neighboring ports, regional political instability, and infrastructural barriers. Additionally, the article evaluates UNCLOS's role in fostering regional collaboration and economic strategies for trade enhancement, alongside the contributions of organizations like the WTO in supporting landlocked states. Despite the legal frameworks established by UNCLOS, the overall impact on trade remains contingent upon global politics and the economic conditions of the countries involved. To optimize the benefits of UNCLOS for Nepal and Afghanistan, the article recommends policies that emphasize regional cooperation, infrastructure development, and engagement with international organizations to strengthen trade opportunities. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:42 PDT
Authors:Amit Kumar Mr. et al. Abstract: This article examines how China constructs a distinct security discourse on terrorism through its engagement with the Taliban in Afghanistan. Moving beyond traditional materialist interpretations of security, the study draws on critical security studies to explore how China uses language, representation, and institutional practices to frame terrorism and project itself as a regional stabilizer. The Taliban’s return to power in 2021 has prompted China to expand its strategic presence in South Asia, particularly through economic diplomacy, intelligence cooperation, and regional multilateral and minilateral forums. Through qualitative discourse analysis of Chinese official statements, white papers, SCO documents, and state media narratives, this research identifies how China positions the Taliban as a manageable actor and redefines terrorism in ways that serve its domestic and regional interests. The article argues that this discursive framing directly contests India’s traditional dominance over regional counterterrorism narratives and contributes to an emerging shift in South Asia’s security architecture. By focusing on China’s security discourse, the article offers a fresh lens for understanding the politics of counterterrorism in South Asia and the broader implications of discursive power in shaping regional order. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:33 PDT
Authors:Oleg Golishnikov Abstract: An objective evaluation of Afghanistan’s political and socioeconomic situation since the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021 is crucial for understanding and addressing security issues at the national, regional, and global levels. Unlike most studies, this article provides new insights, offering a balanced assessment of the situation in Afghanistan and developing recommendations on dealing with the Taliban regime. By employing qualitative methods and a rational theory framework, this article argues that Afghanistan under Taliban rule is experiencing a mix of positive and negative trends. Major positive trends include the relative peace in Afghanistan, the Taliban’s real power and control over the country, the reduction in the cultivation and production of drugs, and the Taliban’s readiness for cooperation with international actors. In turn, major negative trends observed in Afghanistan include the continued terrorism threat, the rising religious extremism and fundamentalism, the intensifying humanitarian crisis, and the ongoing gross violation of human rights. Against such complexity, the most optimal strategy for the international community to deal with the Taliban should be based on RED principles: Recognition, Engagement, and Deterrence. This RED Strategy is not only an embodiment of the “carrot and stick” approach, but a comprehensive conceptual framework to motivate the Taliban to act accountably and responsibly. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:25 PDT
Authors:Sharif Hozoori Abstract: The Taliban emerged as a movement in 1994, toppled the government of the Mujahideen, and ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. They finally recaptured power in 2021 after the US withdrawal from the region. This paper refers to the first Taliban rule as Taliban 1.0 and their second as Taliban 2.0. Taliban 1.0 imposed draconian laws and regulations on women and minorities while harboring regional and international terrorist organizations. Later, the Taliban 2.0 followed its predecessor in policies regarding women, minorities, and sheltering terrorist organizations. Considering this background, this paper addresses whether Taliban 1.0 and 2.0 maintain the same policies and persistent vision. To answer this, I will compare their policies to find out if there is consistency. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:19 PDT
Authors:Marvin G. Weinbaum Abstract: Many explanations have been offered for why after two decades of insurgency the US military mission in Afghanistan failed. Some of our judgments about what went wrong can be useful in helping us shape future US policy toward a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Even more valuable, we have the benefit of several years of observing the Taliban exercising the responsibilities of governing to guide us in engaging the regime and furthering our security and strategic objectives with Afghanistan and its region. This article identifies seven broad conclusions about the Taliban that should be instructive: Among these are the Taliban’s resistance to transactional diplomacy, that any changes in Taliban policy are likely to come from pressures within rather than from outside, that the regime has nevertheless greater exposure to the outside world, and that the Taliban believe that regional and international players are unlikely to push for regime change. The article argues a course correction that breaks new ground in US-Afghan relations by shaking off much of the established thinking about engaging the Taliban. It prescribes a reset of the US diplomatic approach to the Kabul regime involving a normalization of relations with the Taliban as necessary to realize American purposes. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:11 PDT
Authors:Arash Beidollahkhani et al. Abstract: The collapse of the Afghan government in 2021 and the subsequent return of the Taliban marked a significant shift in contemporary geopolitics. This paper examines the political and social dynamics surrounding the U.S. and allied forces' withdrawal, focusing on the entropic forces that contributed to the breakdown of Afghanistan’s governance system. While Afghanistan has experienced recurrent governmental collapses, the post-2021 crisis highlights deeper structural challenges within both the geopolitical and domestic spheres. The research investigates the failure of the U.S.-backed Afghan government, established through two decades of nation-building efforts, and explores how the abrupt foreign withdrawal dismantled fragile political structures, facilitating the rise of authoritarian rule. It critically analyzes the inefficiencies in governance and strategic mismanagement that led to the country’s geopolitical destabilization, contributing to the resurgence of military conflict and the suppression of civil movements. Employing an analytical approach grounded in a comprehensive systemic methodology, this study identifies the key factors behind Afghanistan’s reversion to despotic rule. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:49:02 PDT
Authors:Jithin Raveendran Abstract: This article explores the challenges and failures of nation-building under occupation Amidst an active warfare, using Afghanistan as a critical case study. Over two decades, the US-led intervention sought to establish stability and democracy but ultimately faltered due to misaligned strategies and systemic flaws. Efforts to impose Western governance structures clashed with Afghanistan’s deeply rooted tribal and cultural norms, fueling resistance and eroding legitimacy. The article identifies key shortcomings, including the neglect of local agency, cultural insensitivity, over-reliance on military solutions, and the perpetuation of dependency and corruption. It argues that nation-building by occupying forces is inherently flawed without prioritizing local ownership, cultural alignment, and respect for sovereignty. Drawing on lessons from Afghanistan, the article advocates for a localized and culturally adaptive approach to governance, emphasizing long-term commitment and integrated development strategies. These findings provide critical insights for rethinking international interventions and fostering sustainable, locally driven nation-building efforts. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:48:53 PDT
Authors:Ali Ahmad Jalali PhD Abstract: Four years after the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan, the country under the clerics’ rule is peaceful but not stable. The country is internationally isolated, economically in crisis and socio-politically divided. Despite earlier pledges to share power with other Afghan parties and respect democratic rights of all Afghans,[i] the Taliban swiftly reinstated many of their harshest policies, pushing women out of public life and allowing no dissent.Adhering to an ideology of radical exceptionalism, the ruling Taliban maintain control over the country through a totalitarian governance while keeping ideological ties with regional and global Jihadist groups. The situation complicates efforts to balance the drive of a hardline ideology with practical demands of running a government and engaging with the international community. In geopolitical terms, the Taliban regime has outwardly stated its commitment to preventing terrorist groups from using Afghan territory to launch attacks on other countries. However, the ability and willingness of the Taliban to enforce this commitment are questionable and under scrutiny.This article evaluates the enormous challenges pertaining to legitimacy, governance, and economic hurdles facing the Taliban and whether the Taliban government, without embracing reforms, can survive amidst internal dissent, economic hardships, and international isolation.[i] Serajuddin Haqqani, What We, the Taliban, Want, the New York Times, February 20, 2020 PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:48:46 PDT
Authors:GODDY OSIMEN et al. Abstract: The American occupation of Afghanistan from 2001-2021 is widely regarded as a strategic failure, particularly after the Taliban took over the government in 2021. This work seeks to observe the strategic flaws of the 20-year occupation from the perspective of nation-building within the state. Using the theoretical lens of strategic culture and borrowing from Huntington’s discourse on the clash of civilizations, this article notes that nation-building failure in Afghanistan can be attributed to the ideological differences between the West and the Middle East. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and secondary sources such as books and peer-reviewed articles, the study employs thematic analysis to identify key areas of strategic flaws. The findings highlight three major areas of concern: strategic miscalculation and mission creep, over-militarization and over-reliance on hard power, and the hasty withdrawal of troops in 2021 without creating sustainable nation-building structures in Afghanistan. These flaws culminated in the Taliban’s take-over weeks after the U.S. exit from Afghanistan. In line with these findings, the study recommends that future strategies should incorporate the local culture of the native population into nation-building efforts, and it should have well-defined goals and exit timelines in order to prevent strategic failure, as in the case of Afghanistan. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:48:37 PDT
Authors:Kaneshka Nawabi Abstract: Abstract: This study examines the evolution of political Islam and its role in shaping Afghan generational radicalization. Rooted in a romanticized vision of a "mythical golden age," Islam in Afghanistan has been instrumentalized to justify armed resistance, particularly against foreign invasions. The Soviet invasion marked a pivotal moment, catalyzing ideological shifts and embedding radical narratives. The Taliban's resurgence in 2021 has further entrenched radicalization, amplifying the role of madaris and sidelining moderate Islamic ideologies. By examining the interplay of political isolation, the unchecked expansion of madaris, and the distinct ideological divergences between “Islamism” and Deobandism, this research highlights the deepening entrenchment and fragmentation of radical religious ideologies. The study employs qualitative methods, including interviews and historical analysis, to map the interplay between external invasions, ideological movements, and religious practices. It highlights the hybridization of Hanafi-Deobandi and wahhabi-salafi influences, contributing to ideological fragmentation within Afghanistan's Islamist factions. The findings underscore the challenges of balancing traditional and radicalized Islam within governance, education, and regional dynamics, offering critical insights into the ongoing tensions between cultural and political Islam in Afghanistan’s socio-political fabric. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:48:29 PDT
Authors:Jonathan Schroden Abstract: This article focuses on terrorist groups and efforts to counter them in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover of the country in August 2021. It begins with a brief overview of the most significant international and regional terrorist groups in the country and where these groups stood when the Taliban came to power. It then discusses the efforts of the United States, Pakistan, and the Taliban to counter (or not) those terrorist groups. Specific attention is paid to real or potential cooperation between these efforts. The chapter ends with a discussion of trendlines of the past three years and what those trends may portend for the future, as well as suggestions for improving the ability to counter terrorist threats from Afghanistan. PubDate: Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:48:20 PDT
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