Rebel governance in Afghanistan : the consequence of resource extraction

Abstract

Rebel governance and resource extraction are two fields of research which have mainly crossed paths in regards to funding of insurgencies. Therefore, there is a lack of exploration in terms of how resource extraction can be used for the purpose of furthering rebel governance. For that reason, the objective of this thesis was to analyse and research how illicit mining can create further opportunities for insurgent groups within Afghanistan. By presenting two case studies on the Taliban and IS-KP (Daesh), the aim was to explore how they are using resource extraction to their advantage beyond that of capital gains. The findings in the thesis are based upon the results from qualitative research. The data therein comes from the two case studies alongside a literature review and a theoretical analysis. The objective of the paper was to create an awareness towards how insurgencies operate in terms of interactions with civilians and the state. My findings show that the insurgencies are exploiting weak institutions and a lack of presence by the state, especially in the case of the Taliban who are taking advantage of the traditional decision making mechanisms in the country. This paired with their historic presence in Afghanistan has led to a strengthening of their perceived authority due to their increased activity in the mining sector, which is conceptually a legal industry. In terms of Daesh and their presence in Afghanistan, my findings are rather different. Given that they have become a more fragmented rebel group with less funding from ISIS, my results demonstrate that one of the few justifications for their continued insurgency is their mining operations. Furthermore, as inter-relationships between the various stakeholders in Afghanistan remain fluid and unreliable, this has provided a political space for insurgent groups who hold a great deal of power to also be recognised as stakeholders in governing a future Afghanistan.