The Impact of Taliban Ideology (Pashtunwali and Fundamental Islam) on the Continuity of the US War in Afghanistan

Abstract

The thesis research on the topic of ‘the impact of Pashtunwali and fundamental Islam on the U.S. war in Afghanistan’. It examines contrast of Taliban ideology merged of Pashtunwali and fundamental Islam with liberal democracy as the main reason behind the long-lasting U.S. war in Afghanistan. It hypothesizes that the traditional codes of Pashtun ethnicity together with fundamental Islam which make Taliban’s ideology, were in contrast with liberal democracy values promoted within two decades. The US invaded Afghanistan to overthrow the Taliban regime and diminish the Al-Qaida network’s activities to the possible extent. Upon that, it aimed to establish a liberal democrat and westernized state in Afghanistan not to remain any longer a proper ground for growth of extremism. Institutionalization of liberal democracy changed the socio-cultural values of Pashtun ethnicity for which they resisted, and the war turned to a long-lasting one. For such a hypothesis, the thesis will use qualitive method whereas it would not enter in a mathematical calculation. It would use both primary and secondary sources to analyze the contrast of Taliban ideology with liberal democracy. Taliban’s codes of conduct (Layha) 2006 and 2009 and their statements regarding their fight and military activities within these two decades would help to understand their position and demands. And interviews of scholars and professors would help the process of analysis. In addition, it will rely on secondary sources to better understand the Pashtunwali codes and fundamental Islam.