COUNTRY IN FOCUS

Afghanistan, officially known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country located in South-Central Asia and occupies a strategic position linking Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. This location has made Afghanistan historically important in international politics, however, it has also exposed the country to repeated foreign invasions and prolonged instability.

Historically, Afghanistan served as a small neutral state between rival powers during the nineteenth century, especially between British India and Tsarist Russia. In the modern era, the country has experienced continuous conflict, beginning with the Soviet invasion in 1979, followed by civil war, the rise of the Taliban in the 1990s, and the United States led intervention in 2001 after the September 11 attacks. The withdrawal of foreign forces in 2021 and the return of the Taliban to power marked another major turning point in Afghanistan’s political history.

Politically,Afghanistan is currently governed by the Taliban under the Islamic Emirate system, which is based on a strict interpretation of Islamic law. The lack of international recognition of the government has affected Afghanistan’s diplomatic relations and access to foreign aid. Economically, the country remains underdeveloped, with agriculture as the main source of livelihood. Several years of war have destroyed infrastructure and worsened poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity.

Socially, Afghanistan is ethnically diverse, with groups such as Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, and Uzbeks. Islam plays a central role in the lives of the people, but several years of conflict have weakened education, healthcare, and social cohesion. The situation of women and girls has drawn international concern, particularly due to restrictions on education and public participation.

 Afghanistan’s present challenges are deeply rooted in its history of conflict, foreign intervention, and political instability. Despite its difficulties, Afghanistan remains an important subject in international relations due to its strategic location, security concerns, and humanitarian situation.