The impact of Taliban takeover on Afghanistan and the neighbouring countries

Pakistan, once again a supporter, now faces increased security threats from the Taliban even more so. Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has increased attacks within Pakistan, and the Afghan Taliban shares some ideological ties with it. People such as civilians and security personnel were included among the over two thousand five hundred people who all died as a result of this violence during 2024. The Afghan Taliban has curtailed no TTP activities despite Islamabad’s expectations resulting in strained relations and Pakistan's military responses.

Phurpa Dorjee Sona, 3rd year, BBA., LL.B (hons.)

5/1/20251 min read

The definite resurgence of extremist groups is what Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan are grappling with in particular. By exploiting Afghanistan’s instability, the Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) has greatly expanded into Central Asia. IS-K did notably claim its responsibility for such a deadly attack within Moscow back in March of 2024, and it did highlight such a transnational threat that emanated from inside of that region.

Because the Taliban governs, diplomatic tensions with nearby countries are created. Border clashes, such as at the Pakistan and Afghanistan Torkham crossing, have disrupted both trade and humanitarian aid. Each of the relationships became more detailed owing to a few disagreements regarding infrastructure along the border. Allegations of combatants that reciprocally were sheltered did also complicate relations.

Afghanistan’s economic collapse in the wake of the Taliban takeover has resulted in a number of ripple effects that are occurring. Certain trade disruptions affect individual neighboring economies, as well as the continuing lack of sufficient international recognition for the Taliban regime limits particular regional economic integration. Few of the countries engage with the Taliban for reasons that are much more of the realistic kind while they still do not thoroughly cooperate in an economic way.

Refugee Crisis

The Taliban’s rule has prompted a significant exodus of Afghans fearing persecution. Pakistan, hosting a large Afghan refugee population, has intensified efforts to repatriate undocumented Afghans, raising concerns about forced returns to a country with deteriorating human rights conditions.

Women’s Rights and Social Policies

The Taliban’s restrictive policies, especially towards women, have drawn international condemnation. Activists like Malala Yousafzai have labeled the regime’s actions as “gender apartheid,” emphasizing the broader implications for women’s rights in the region .

Conclusion

The Taliban’s resurgence has introduced a complex set of challenges for Afghanistan’s neighbors. From heightened security threats and diplomatic strains to humanitarian crises, the regional landscape has been significantly altered. Addressing these multifaceted issues requires coordinated efforts, balancing security concerns with humanitarian obligations and diplomatic engagement.