The Taliban's mafia-like rule in Afghanistan 

Report series by Bush Institute's Natalie Gonnella-Platts, Jessica Ludwig, and Albert Torres

EXPLORE THE SERIES

Afghan children work in a brick factory on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)

The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has left its population under the rule of a repressive and brutal regime. The Taliban are actively looting Afghanistan of its wealth while lining their own pocketbooks. Innocent Afghans – especially women and children – are suffering. Millions of families are in desperate need of food, heating, and other essential items.

The regime’s return to power has created a scenario described as hell on earth, despite the Taliban’s claims that they would crack down on corruption. At least 167 Afghan children die each day from treatable illnesses, and maternal mortality rates and pregnancy complications have skyrocketed. Meanwhile, sanctioned Taliban leaders have traveled abroad to access quality medical care.

It doesn’t have to be this way. The United States and its allies, the United Nations, and the international community must act to end the Taliban’s barbaric human rights abuses and oppression of the Afghan people.

The George W. Bush Institute released a series that details how the Taliban have relied on mafia-like behavior to consolidate power. The reports examine Taliban corruption; the impact on women, children, and other vulnerable communities; and the role of foreign enablers in perpetuating the Taliban’s horrific rule. The papers include recommendations on how to advance peace, stability, and freedom in Afghanistan.

Corruption and Kleptocracy in Afghanistan Under the Taliban  

The Human Cost of the Taliban’s Corruption and Kleptocracy  

The Role of Foreign Enablers in Perpetuating Taliban Corruption in Afghanistan 

Learn more about the Bush Institute’s work on supporting Afghan women and children at www.bushcenter.org/afghanistan.

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About the George W. Bush Institute

The George W. Bush Institute is a solution-oriented nonpartisan policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies. Housed within the George W. Bush Presidential Center, the Bush Institute is rooted in compassionate conservative values and committed to creating positive, meaningful, and lasting change at home and abroad. We utilize our unique platform and convening power to advance solutions to national and global issues of the day. Learn more at bushcenter.org.