Boomerang Effects of Taliban Transition to a State Actor and the Development Challenges in Afghanistan, 2001-2023
Abstract
The 21st century continues to wrestle with the pervasive challenges of terrorism, a complex issue that spans across borders and affects society deeply. Terrorism, characterized by violent actions from individuals or groups to instigate fear for achieving ideological or political goals, has widespread and significant effects. It causes not only physical injuries and mental distress to people but also severely disrupts societal, economic, and political stability. Despite global efforts and widespread condemnation by international bodies like the United Nations, groups with extreme ideologies, such as the Taliban, have gained considerable power. This research examines the "boomerang effects" of the Taliban's transformation from a terrorist entity to the ruling power in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2023, through the lens of the Failed State Theory. Utilizing qualitative methods and content analysis of secondary sources, this paper investigates the intricate dynamics behind the Taliban's resurgence. Contributing factors include Afghanistan's long- standing instability, poverty, religious radicalism, and the absence of effective security measures. The Taliban's aggressive strategies significantly contributed to their takeover, leading to the enforcement of their strict interpretation of Islamic law. Despite substantial international military efforts, the resurgence of the Taliban was not halted. Their governance has had devastating effects on Afghanistan’s progress, resulting in massive displacement and destruction of infrastructure. Following the rapid withdrawal of US and allied forces, the Taliban's rise to power signals a critical shift in Afghanistan’s governance, plunging the country into deep developmental and humanitarian challenges, exacerbated by international sanctions. With the Taliban now in power, Afghanistan's future is fraught with uncertainty
