Introduction
Peace is one of the fundamental requirements for political stability and human development worldwide. However, Afghanistan continues to struggle to pursue peace and political stability.
Despite the prolonged presence of U.S. and NATO forces, peace remained elusive. Instead, instability and civil war intensified, resulting in human casualties and the further destruction of the country’s already underdeveloped infrastructure.
According to official reports, approximately 200,000 members of the Afghan army, police, and security forces, along with around 50,000 NATO and U.S. soldiers, were killed or injured due to direct combat, suicide attacks, and roadside bombings [1]
From Peace to War
The mission of the U.S. and NATO was to establish long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan. However, the country was eventually pulled into deeper violence, culminating in the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 2021. Ultimately, it was the people of Afghanistan, especially women and children, who suffered the most. Today, there remains little hope for peace, stability, or development.
Although Russia has repeatedly emphasized the importance of peace in Afghanistan, resolving the crisis requires inclusive dialogue among regional stakeholders and global superpowers.
In this context, BRICS, comprising Russia, India, China, Brazil, South Africa, and other emerging economic powers, has the potential to play a constructive role in stabilizing Afghanistan.
This article aims to explore the position and potential role of BRICS as a rising global organization with significant economic influence in promoting stability and development in Afghanistan.
Back to Point Zero: Afghanistan’s Struggle for Peace
Afghanistan holds a critical geographical position in Central Asia and plays a key role in regional stability. Yet, in recent decades, neighboring countries have prioritized self-interest over efforts to support lasting peace in Afghanistan. These nations have often pursued their agendas, complicating Afghanistan’s path to stability.
It was also expected that, over the past two decades, the European Union, drawing on its experience of fostering peace in post-communist Eastern Europe, would contribute meaningfully to Afghanistan’s stability. However, this expectation went largely unfulfilled. On the contrary, Afghanistan has faced even more complex and deep-rooted challenges.
As mentioned earlier, the failure of peace efforts in Afghanistan can be attributed to numerous factors. Yet, one undeniable truth remains: no long-term solution can succeed without addressing the country’s ethnic and religious divisions, cultural tensions, social justice issues, and the urgent need for balanced development. Ignoring these aspects ensures that any peace initiative will fail from the beginning.[2]
Through BRICS: A Magnificent Chance for Peace in Afghanistan
As a new global platform, BRICS has a tremendous impact on both local and international events, encouraging stability, economic growth, and balance of power. With influential members like China and India, the organization represents 40% of the world’s population, three of the five largest armies, nearly a quarter of global GDP, and about one-third of the Earth’s landmass.
Russia, China, India, and Iran, key regional powers bordering Afghanistan, can play a vital role in securing long-term peace in the country. During the 16th Annual BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, global and regional issues, including Afghanistan’s situation, were discussed. The group emphasized the need for fundamental and inclusive solutions to bring peace to the region, particularly in Afghanistan.
Historically, Afghanistan has been a battleground for regional competition. However, a consensus among its neighbors under the cooperation and support of BRICS could serve as a foundation for a lasting resolution.
In addition, Afghanistan’s strategic geographic location connects it to major regional infrastructure and energy projects such as CASA-1000, TAPI, and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This gives Afghanistan the potential to act as a key regional connector. The country is also rich in untapped natural resources and minerals. With investment from BRICS member states, Afghanistan’s economy could be revitalized, contributing to both national development and regional integration.
Referencing:
[1] 20 year U.S .war .Afghanistan international. 9 Oct 2023. جنگ ۲۰ ساله امریکا؛ بیش از ۲۲۲ هزار غیرنظامی، نیروی امنیتی، اعضای طالبان و داعش کشته شدند | افغانستان اینترنشنال
(America’s 20-year war; more than 222,000 civilians, security forces, Taliban, and ISIS members killed | Afghanistan International)
[2] Rostye, Mujtaba 2019 The failed path to conflict resolution https://peace- peace building in Afghanistan
About the Author:
Madina Hadi is a student at the Higher School of Economics in Moscow, Russia
