The Silent Erosion of Afghanistan’s Urban Middle Class: A Neglected Crisis

The Silent Erosion of Afghanistan’s Urban Middle Class: A Neglected Crisis

In the wake of the Taliban’s rise to power, a critical aspect of Afghanistan’s socioeconomic landscape has been absent from discussions: the urban middle class. The middle class in Kabul and the rest of Afghanistan’s cities have had to cope with radical institutional changes and persistent economic shocks since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. … Read more

2 Years of Taliban Diplomacy

A Very Quiet Meeting in Doha: US Officials Meet With Taliban Representatives

Advertisement August 15 marked two years of Taliban rule in Afghanistan, a milestone the Islamic Emirate celebrated by emphasizing that its rule is “open-ended” and faces no challengers. The Taliban’s chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, also told the Associated Press in an interview that the government is winning “the recognition of officialdom”: “Our interaction with China, … Read more

Did Pakistan Really Benefit From the Taliban Takeover in Afghanistan?

Did Pakistan Really Benefit From the Taliban Takeover in Afghanistan?

Advertisement Prior to the Taliban’s military conquest of Afghanistan in August 2021, Pakistan had supported the group for years, providing both resources and safe havens. The Taliban’s rise in Afghanistan was initially seen favorably by Pakistan’s government and strategists, with former Prime Minister Imran Khan openly endorsing it. However, after two years of the Taliban’s … Read more

The Taliban Are Entrenched in Afghanistan After 2 Years of Rule

The Taliban Are Entrenched in Afghanistan After 2 Years of Rule

Advertisement The Taliban have settled in as rulers of Afghanistan, two years after they seized power as U.S. and NATO forces withdrew from the country following two decades of war. The Taliban face no significant opposition that could topple them. They have avoided internal divisions by falling in line behind their ideologically unbending leader. They … Read more

How the Taliban Guard Afghanistan’s Border (and What It Says About Their Regime)

How the Taliban Guard Afghanistan’s Border (and What It Says About Their Regime)

Advertisement NUSAI & MAIMAI, BADAKHSHAN, AFGHANISTAN — The two Taliban walked along the deserted dusty road, dwarfed by the massive rock cliffs towering all around them. The steady rushing of the water of the river snaking its way through the mountains swallowed the crunching sound of their steps. As they wore no uniforms, it would … Read more