Report
War gains: how the economic benefits of the conflict are distributed in Afghanistan and the implications for peace. A case study on Nimroz province
Earlier this year, consultants for Lessons for Peace: Afghanistan studied the main sources of funds for different conflict actors in Nimroz. A strategic province in south-west Afghanistan that borders Iran and Pakistan, Nimroz became the first provincial capital to be taken by the insurgents.
In light of the Taliban’s rapid advance, this
research reveals the potential importance of control over cross-border
trade to the overall balance of power in the country. In doing so, it
helps explain how the group have been able to mobilise support from
erstwhile opponents through sophisticated pacts and agreements, and
provides an indication of the likely role of these bargains, and the
economic rents which underpin them, in keeping local powerholders
included in the emerging settlement.
The report annex provides a detailed technical analysis explaining how revenues were calculated and mapped.
Published: 13 August 2021
Lessons for Peace: Afghanistan is developing an independent evidence base to support development partner decision-making in Afghanistan.
Lessons for Peace: Afghanistan helps international development partners support development and peacebuilding by producing research to inform policymaking, and by convening space for debate and discussion. Our work is structured around three pillars of activity.
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