TALIBAN'S TRANSITION FROM A MILITARY MOVEMENT TO A POLITICAL FORCE: POLICY RESPONSE BY PAKISTAN

Abstract

This paper explores the transformation of the Taliban from a militant insurgency to a political force and examines Pakistan's evolving policy response to this shift. Following the United States withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Taliban return to power in 2021, Pakistan's strategic calculations have faced both opportunities and challenges. Drawing on realist theoretical frameworks, this paper analyzes the nature of the Taliban's political behaviour, Pakistan's diplomatic and security adjustments, and the resulting regional implications. The paper also examines the role of outside powers including Russia and China in according diplomatic recognition to the government of Taliban. Through qualitative analysis the paper analyses the international consensus of not according the Taliban government a diplomatic status without the Taliban government delivering in key areas of international concern. The paper examines the missed opportunity of treating Taliban as a political force after they were removed from power in 2001 and recommends that the world may consider extending a diplomatic olive branch to the current government of Taliban.  The paper also analyzes Pakistan's policy approach towards Taliban government especially in the context of the threat from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The paper concludes by giving policy recommendations for Pakistan’s policy towards Afghanistan, geared towards according diplomatic status to the current Taliban government.