Who are Talibans is a questions many people ask. The Taliban, officially known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, emerged in the early 1990s during the chaotic aftermath of the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. Initially formed as a movement of Islamic scholars and former mujahideen fighters, the group rose to prominence with a strict interpretation of Sharia law. They governed Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001 until they were ousted by a U.S.-led coalition in the wake of the September 11 attacks. After two decades of insurgency, the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S. forces.
Taliban History
1996-2001: The First Taliban Regime
The Taliban first came to power in 1996, swiftly seizing control over most of Afghanistan, including its capital, Kabul. Their governance was marked by a rigid enforcement of Islamic law, with bans on many aspects of daily life, especially for women, such as the prohibition of education and employment outside the home. Internationally, their rule was recognized by only a few countries, and they became notorious for their harboring groups like al-Qaeda.
2001: U.S.-Led Invasion and the Fall of the Taliban
Following the September 11 attacks, the U.S. invaded Afghanistan, and launched a military campaign against the Taliban for sheltering al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. By December 2001, the Taliban had been driven from Kabul, and a new U.S.-backed government was established. Over the next two decades, the Taliban regrouped and launched an insurgency against both Afghan and international forces, maintaining significant control over rural areas.
2021: U.S. Withdrawal and the Taliban’s Return to Power
After years of negotiations, the U.S. agreed to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan by 2021. In a matter of weeks, the Taliban launched a rapid offensive, seizing control of Kabul on August 15, 2021, and reinstating the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. This marked the end of the U.S. invasion, and the end of the U.S.-backed government and the beginning of the Taliban’s second regime.
The Taliban Perspective
From the Taliban’s viewpoint, their return to power in 2021 marks the restoration of Afghan sovereignty and the establishment of a pure Islamic government. They see themselves as liberators who fought against foreign occupation and are now working to stabilize and rebuild Afghanistan according to Islamic principles.
- Rebuilding and Infrastructure Projects
The Taliban Government are actively promoting their focus on infrastructure development, including projects in Afghanistan like roads, energy production, and urban renovation. For example, they have announced ambitious plans to improve regional connectivity through projects like the Khaf-Herat Railway, linking Afghanistan with Iran. Additionally, the Qosh Tepa Canal project aims to convert desert land into fertile farmland, showcasing the Taliban’s efforts to revitalize Afghanistan’s agriculture. - Economic Partnerships
Despite international sanctions, development in Afghanistan with the Taliban have sought to foster economic ties, particularly with regional powers like China. A notable example is the 25-year oil extraction contract between the Taliban and the China National Petroleum Company (CNPC) to exploit Afghanistan’s Amu Darya Basin. Such partnerships are crucial for Afghanistan’s economic recovery, as the Taliban aim to leverage the country’s natural resources for long-term prosperity. - Security and Governance
In their current rule, the Taliban emphasize their commitment to maintaining security and order across the country. They have established checkpoints and imposed strict regulations to ensure safety. While their policies on human rights—particularly regarding women’s education and employment—remain controversial, the Taliban argue that these measures are part of their interpretation of Islamic governance.
The Western Perspective
From a Western point of view, Afghanistan development with the return of the Taliban raises significant concerns, especially regarding human rights, gender equality, and terrorism. Many Western countries, including the U.S. and European nations, have yet to formally recognize the Taliban government, primarily due to its restrictive policies on women’s rights and its links to extremist groups.
- Human Rights and Women’s Education
One of the most criticized aspects of Taliban rule is their treatment of women and girls. Under the Taliban’s interpretation of Sharia, many women have been banned from working in certain sectors or attending higher education, leading to widespread international condemnation. The group, however, asserts that these policies are aligned with Islamic values and promises that reforms in the education sector will eventually allow girls to return to school. - International Relations
The lack of formal recognition by many Western countries has complicated the Taliban’s efforts to rejoin the international community. However, the closure of several Afghan embassies in Europe, as well as ongoing negotiations with countries like China and Russia, suggest that the Taliban are slowly gaining indirect acknowledgment from some international actors.
The Future of Afghanistan
In their second stint in power, the Taliban present themselves as more pragmatic and engaged in the international system. Their focus has shifted from merely enforcing Islamic law to rebuilding the nation’s economy and improving infrastructure. The Taliban have initiated projects aimed at boosting connectivity with neighboring countries, modernizing the energy sector, and securing foreign investments, particularly from countries like China and Russia.
The Taliban also recognize that to achieve long-term stability, they must manage Afghanistan’s relationships with its neighbors. This includes negotiations with Iran and Central Asian countries on water and energy-sharing agreements, and fostering trade routes through initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
In a rare interview with BBC News, Hamdullah Fitrat, the Deputy Spokesman for the Taliban government, shared insights into the group’s achievements, challenges, and future goals for Afghanistan. With over three years in power, the Taliban’s leadership defends the progress they claim to have made, while also acknowledging the challenges that remain.
Diplomatic Achievements and Economic Progress
Since taking control of Afghanistan, the Taliban government has worked to overcome political isolation and improve relations with neighboring countries and the wider international community. Fitrat highlighted the opening of embassies abroad and the arrival of foreign diplomats in Afghanistan as key steps in their diplomatic progress.
On the economic front, Fitrat pointed to significant developments such as the start of mining and oil extraction projects and ongoing highway construction. These initiatives, he says, are helping to create jobs and reduce poverty. However, the spokesman acknowledged that unemployment remains a major issue, a legacy of Afghanistan’s turbulent past.
Women’s Education and Employment
The topic of education of women in Afghanistan remains a contentious issue. The Taliban’s restrictions on female education have faced widespread criticism both domestically and internationally. Fitrat acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that the leadership is actively working on resolving the issue.
Currently, primary schools for girls are open, and women are working in sectors such as healthcare, police, and passport services. Fitrat also mentioned that there has been an increase in women involved in business, with thousands of women now owning licenses and operating their own businesses across the country.
Cultural and Religious Values
Responding to concerns about the interpretation of Sharia law, Fitrat stressed that the Taliban’s laws are deeply rooted in Islamic principles and reflect the cultural values of Afghan society, particularly in rural areas. He argued that while some may see the rules as restrictive, they align with the traditions and religious beliefs of the majority of Afghans.
Challenges in International Relations
One of the major points discussed was Afghanistan’s relationship with the international community. Despite improvements in diplomatic relations, Fitrat admitted that there are challenges, especially regarding women’s rights. International organizations have criticized the Taliban’s policies, warning that these could affect future aid.
Fitrat emphasized that the Taliban is willing to maintain positive relationships with the world, but only within the framework of Islamic Sharia. He urged the international community not to mix humanitarian aid with political pressures, especially in light of natural disasters and the ongoing economic recovery efforts.
Security Concerns
On the issue of security, Fitrat downplayed the presence of ISIS in Afghanistan, stating that the majority of the group’s forces have been eradicated. He insisted that the Taliban does not view ISIS as a serious threat at this time. Additionally, the Taliban reaffirmed its stance against allowing foreign militant groups like Al-Qaeda to operate within the country.
A Complex Legacy
The Taliban’s return to power marks a pivotal chapter in Afghanistan’s history. While they assert their role in restoring order and independence after years of foreign occupation, they face immense challenges—from economic sanctions to international criticism over human rights. Their future depends on how well they balance Islamic governance with global engagement.
A key issue for the Taliban is achieving national unity after decades of conflict. They must foster a consensus that integrates all groups into the country’s development and governance, establishing an Afghan way of living that embraces Islamic values. Drawing on the models of countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran—where women participate in higher education and national life—could help guide this process.
The Taliban must gain the trust of all Afghans to build a stable nation. They acknowledge their roots as fighters and mountain people but recognize the need for skilled professionals in governance, technology, security, and education. With growing demand for expertise in high-tech jobs, international workers are arriving in Kabul to fill these gaps. The Taliban have also invited former government officials, such as police and airport staff, to rejoin and help manage the country. Kabul’s airport, for instance, continues operations with women among the security and staff.
Afghanistan now faces the challenge of developing independently after decades of war that set the country back. Finding its own path, free from external influence, is crucial for its future.