Triple failure of Taliban regime!

IT would not be an overstatement to say that the flawed policies of the Taliban regime have worsened the socio-economic crisis in Afghanistan. Ironically, Afghanistan is plunging deeper in the quagmire with every passing day under the rule of an unelected self-style government which lacks international recognition. Tensions with neighbouring Pakistan have turned volatile amid long standing issue of cross-border terrorism which continues to endanger the regional peace. The close, ideological and tactical partnership between the Afghan Taliban and the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has created severe, long-term damage to both the security and economy of Afghanistan. By harbouring and supporting the TTP—which is responsible for a surge in terror attacks in Pakistan—the Taliban regime has created a “triple failure” of legitimacy, security and welfare. The Taliban’s backing of the TTP has led to increased friction with Pakistan, resulting in frequent, unannounced closures of key border crossings like Torkham and Chaman. These closures cost the Afghan economy an estimated $1 million per day in lost trade, according to reports in 2025-2026. The ongoing security crisis and the Taliban’s refusal to curb extremist groups create a volatile environment, making foreign investment nearly impossible, which keeps the country in a “low growth, high vulnerability” trap. The regime has failed to build a sustainable economy, relying on external aid for over 40% of public revenue while the TTP nexus diverts focus away from economic development. UNDP reports that only 7% of women were employed outside the household in 2024, compared with 84% of men and identifies Afghanistan as the most repressive country for women’s rights. The UN Monitoring Team notes that bans on girls’ education and women’s employment have long-term economic effects because half the population is not educated or able to work freely. The Security Council has warned that peace and prosperity are unattainable un