by Zafar Yousafzai 22 August 2023
In August 2021, the world watched with a mix of trepidation and curiosity as the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan after nearly two decades of conflict. Their sudden resurgence raised hopes among some segments of the Afghan population that the group had evolved since their last rule, promising a more inclusive and moderated governance. However, as we mark the two-year anniversary of their return to power, it is increasingly evident that their policy failures have led Afghanistan down a troubling path.
The Taliban’s initial promises centered on bringing stability and curbing terrorist activities. They assured the international community that Afghanistan would not once again become a safe haven for terrorist groups. However, these assurances have proven to be hollow. Despite their claims of disassociating from al-Qaeda, the U.S. government’s successful drone strike on al-Qaeda leader Aimen al-Zawahiri in Kabul exposed the complex relationship between the two groups. This event cast a shadow of doubt on the Taliban’s sincerity in their counterterrorism efforts.
The Taliban’s policies regarding human rights and civil liberties have caused global alarm. They have systematically reversed the progress made over the past two decades in terms of women’s rights, education, and minority inclusion. The promises of a more inclusive society have been replaced with oppressive policies that have pushed Afghan women back into the shadows. Reports of restrictions on women’s movement, education, and public participation have raised concerns about the erosion of basic human rights.
Economically, Afghanistan has faced significant challenges under the Taliban’s rule. The lack of international recognition and aid has placed a heavy burden on the Afghan population. The promises of international investment and economic growth have not materialized, leaving Afghanistan in a state of economic uncertainty. The strained diplomatic relations with various countries due to policy failures have further compounded these economic challenges.
The Taliban’s governance has fallen short of their initial promises of inclusivity and moderation. Their attempts to impose their rigid interpretation of Islamic law have clashed with the diverse and multicultural nature of Afghan society. The promise of a more inclusive government has been marred by a lack of representation for women and ethnic minorities. The challenge of reconciling their ideology with the realities of governance has proven to be an uphill battle.
Neighboring countries have expressed concerns about the impact of the Taliban’s rule on regional stability. The potential for Afghanistan to once again become a breeding ground for international terrorism looms large, as extremist groups find space to operate within the country. The Taliban’s inability to control these groups could have far-reaching implications for global counterterrorism efforts and alliances.
The Taliban’s efforts to gain international legitimacy have been met with skepticism due to their policy failures. Their participation in international forums and diplomatic engagements aimed at securing recognition have been hindered by their human rights violations and oppressive policies. Their struggle for international acceptance underscores the difficulty of reconciling their ideology with the expectations of the global community.
Within Afghanistan, discontent and resistance to the Taliban’s rule have been growing. Despite their efforts to project a united front, reports of internal divisions and opposition movements have emerged. Armed uprisings against their oppressive policies have shown that segments of the Afghan population are unwilling to accept a return to the Taliban’s previous rule. These signs of resistance indicate that not all Afghans are willing to submit to their policies.
The policy failures of the past two years have cast a shadow over the Taliban’s governance. Their inability to deliver on their promises of stability, inclusivity, and moderation have eroded the trust of the Afghan people. To secure a stable and prosperous Afghanistan, the Taliban must recognize the importance of adapting their policies to address the concerns of the Afghan population. The path forward requires a more inclusive and accountable governance that respects the rights and aspirations of all citizens.
As we reflect on the two-year journey of the Taliban’s return to power, it is clear that their policy failures have had significant implications for Afghanistan and the region. The Taliban’s promises of stability, inclusivity, and moderation have been overshadowed by the resurgence of terrorist activities, the erosion of human rights, and economic challenges. The coming years will determine whether the Taliban can learn from these failures and pave a path toward a more prosperous and stable Afghanistan. The international community, Afghan citizens, and the Taliban itself have a role to play in shaping the trajectory of the country’s future.