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{{Short description|Landlocked country in south-central Asia}}
{{Infobox country
{{Infobox country
| name = Afghanistan
| name = Afghanistan
| official_name = Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan ''(name used by the de facto Taliban authorities)''
| native_name = افغانستان
| native_name = افغانستان
| image_flag = Flag of the Taliban.svg
|flag_image = Flag of Afghanistan.png
| flag_caption = Flag used by the de facto Taliban authorities
|flag_alt = Flag of Afghanistan
|flag_caption = Flag of Afghanistan
| map_image = Afghanistan adm location map.svg
| map_alt = Map of Afghanistan showing its provincial boundaries
| map_caption = Map of Afghanistan
| capital = [[Kabul]]
| capital = [[Kabul]]
| largest_city = [[Kabul]]
| largest_city = [[Kabul]]
| official_languages = [[Dari]] and [[Pashto]]
| continent = [[Asia]]
| religion = [[Islam]]
| region = South-central Asia
| official_languages = [[Dari language|Dari]] and [[Pashto language|Pashto]]
| demonym = Afghan
| demonym = Afghan
| government_type = De facto Islamic emirate under Taliban rule
| government = De facto Islamic emirate under Taliban rule
| leader_title1 = Overall Taliban leader
| head_of_state_title = Supreme Leader
| leader_name1 = [[Hibatullah Akhundzada]]
| head_of_state = [[Hibatullah Akhundzada]]
| leader_title2 = Acting prime minister
| head_of_government_title = Acting Prime Minister
| leader_name2 = [[Mohammad Hassan Akhund]]
| head_of_government = [[Mohammad Hassan Akhund]]
| area_km2 = 652,230
| formation = Modern Afghan state conventionally dated to 1747; independence in foreign affairs achieved in 1919
| population_estimate = 43,844,111
| area = 652,230 km²
| population_estimate_year = 2025
| area_km2 = 652230
| water_percent = 0
| population = 43,844,111
| population_number = 43844111
| population_as_of = 2025
| gdp_nominal = US$17.78 billion
| gdp_nominal_year = 2024
| currency = [[Afghan afghani]]
| currency = [[Afghan afghani]]
| currency_code = AFN
| currency_code = AFN
| time_zone = Afghanistan Time
| timezone = Afghanistan Time
| utc_offset = +4:30
| driving_side = right
| calling_code = +93
| calling_code = +93
| internet_tld = .af
| internet_tld = .af
| iso_alpha2 = AF
| iso_alpha3 = AFG
| iso_numeric = 004
| coordinates = 33°N 65°E
| latitude = 33
| longitude = 65
}}
}}


'''Afghanistan''' is a landlocked country at the meeting point of [[Central Asia]] and [[South Asia]]. It borders [[Pakistan]] to the east and south, [[Iran]] to the west, [[Turkmenistan]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Tajikistan]] to the north, and [[China]] through the narrow Wakhan region in the northeast.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan |website=Encyclopaedia Britannica |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> [[Kabul]] is the capital and largest city.
'''Afghanistan''' is a landlocked country in south-central [[Asia]]. It lies between [[Iran]] to the west, [[Pakistan]] to the east and south, [[Turkmenistan]], [[Uzbekistan]] and [[Tajikistan]] to the north, and [[China]] at the eastern end of the narrow [[Wakhan Corridor]]. Its capital and largest city is [[Kabul]]. Afghanistan's terrain is dominated by mountains, particularly the [[Hindu Kush]], together with high plateaus, northern plains and desert regions.<ref name="britannica">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Afghanistan |website=Encyclopaedia Britannica |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


The country's terrain is dominated by mountains, particularly the [[Hindu Kush]], with plains and lower-lying areas in parts of the north and southwest. Afghanistan covers about 652,230 square kilometres.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan country summary |website=CIA World Factbook archive |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> World Bank data placed its population at about 43.8 million in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=World Development Indicators: Population, Afghanistan |website=World Bank |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Afghanistan has been a meeting point between Central Asia, South Asia, the Iranian plateau and the Middle East for centuries. The modern Afghan state is commonly associated with the rise of [[Ahmad Shah Durrani]] in 1747. Afghanistan later became a focus of rivalry between the British and Russian empires, and its modern international boundaries largely emerged during the 19th century.<ref name="loc-history">{{cite web |title=Kitāb musṭatāb-i Sirāj al-tavārīkh |url=https://www.loc.gov/item/2013415208/ |website=Library of Congress |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref><ref name="britannica"/>


Afghanistan has been an important crossroads for trade, migration and conquest for centuries. Modern Afghan state formation is commonly associated with [[Ahmad Shah Durrani]], who established the Durrani state in 1747.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan: Security Assistance |website=United States Department of State archive |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Afghanistan was influenced by rivalry between the British and Russian empires. It secured control over its foreign affairs following the Third Anglo-Afghan War in 1919.
The country experienced repeated political upheaval and warfare during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, including the Soviet intervention beginning in 1979, civil war, the first period of Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, the United States-led military intervention beginning in 2001, and the restoration of Taliban control in August 2021.<ref name="soviet">{{cite web |title=The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S. Response, 1978–1980 |url=https://history.state.gov/milestones/1977-1980/soviet-invasion-afghanistan |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref><ref name="un2021">{{cite web |title=2021 UN Country Annual Results Report |url=https://afghanistan.un.org/en/180375-2021-un-country-annual-results-report |website=United Nations in Afghanistan |date=31 March 2022 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


The country experienced a monarchy, a republic, communist rule, Soviet military intervention, civil war, Taliban rule, a Western-backed republican government and a second Taliban takeover. The Taliban returned to control of Kabul in August 2021 following the collapse of the Islamic Republic and the withdrawal of United States and allied forces. As of September 2026, the Taliban exercise de facto control over the national government. Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban government in July 2025, while most governments and international institutions have continued to deal with it without granting formal recognition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government of Afghanistan |website=Reuters |date=3 July 2025 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan - Leaders and Cabinet Members |website=Central Intelligence Agency |date=3 September 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Since August 2021, Afghanistan has been governed in practice by the Taliban. International organizations, including the United Nations, commonly describe the Taliban administration as the country's ''de facto authorities''. Hibatullah Akhundzada is the overall Taliban leader, while Mohammad Hassan Akhund serves as acting prime minister.<ref name="cia-leaders">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan - World Leaders |url=https://www.cia.gov/resources/world-leaders/foreign-governments/afghanistan/ |website=Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref><ref name="unama2026">{{cite web |title=Update on the Human Rights Situation in Afghanistan (April to June 2026) |url=https://unama.unmissions.org/en/news/update-on-the-human-rights-situation-in-afghanistan-april-to-june-2026 |website=United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan |date=28 July 2026 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


== Name ==
== Name ==
The English name ''Afghanistan'' is used internationally for the country. In Dari and Pashto, the country is written افغانستان. The term ''Afghan'' is used as the demonym for a citizen of Afghanistan.


The name ''Afghanistan'' has historically been associated with the land of the Afghans, a term that was often used in earlier sources for Pashtun communities. Over time, the name came to refer to the wider state containing many ethnic and linguistic groups.
United Nations geographical-name records list ''Afghanistan'' as the country's English short name. Dari and Pashto forms are also recorded in the United Nations geographical-names system.<ref name="ungegn">{{cite web |title=Country Details - Afghanistan |url=https://ungegn.un.org/dashboard/countries/details?id=4 |website=United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>
 
The country's name is written as افغانستان in both Dari and Pashto script. The Taliban authorities use the formal title '''Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan''', while the country continues to be widely referred to internationally simply as Afghanistan.
 
== Geography ==
 
Afghanistan is completely landlocked. The nearest seacoast lies hundreds of kilometres to the south, beyond Pakistan.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan |website=Encyclopaedia Britannica |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> Its position between the Iranian plateau, Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent and western China has historically made it an important route for armies, merchants and migrating peoples.
 
The [[Hindu Kush]] mountain system extends across much of the central and northeastern parts of Afghanistan and forms one of the country's most important physical features.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hindu Kush |website=Encyclopaedia Iranica |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> Mountain valleys support settlements and agriculture, while lower plains are found in the north and southwest.
 
Afghanistan's climate is generally arid or semi-arid, with hot summers in many lowland areas and cold winters, especially at high elevations. Snowfall in the mountains provides an important source of water for rivers and agriculture.
 
Important river systems include the [[Amu Darya]] along part of the northern frontier, the Kabul River, the Helmand River and the Hari River. Because much of the country receives limited rainfall, irrigation has long been important to farming.
 
The country's landscapes range from desert and dry steppe to fertile valleys, high mountains and alpine lakes. [[Band-e Amir]], in Bamyan Province, is known for a chain of high-altitude lakes surrounded by limestone formations.
 
== Administrative divisions ==
 
Afghanistan is divided into 34 provinces. Provinces are further divided into districts, although the number and boundaries of districts have changed at different times.
 
Among the country's major urban centres are:
 
* [[Kabul]], the national capital and largest city
* [[Kandahar]], an important southern commercial and historical centre
* [[Herat]], a major city in western Afghanistan
* [[Mazar-i-Sharif]], a major northern city
* [[Jalalabad]], an important eastern city
* [[Kunduz]], a major settlement in the northeast
 
Kabul has long served as the political and administrative centre of the modern Afghan state.


== History ==
== History ==
=== Early and pre-modern history ===
The territory of present-day Afghanistan has historically connected regions of Central Asia, Iran and the Indian subcontinent. Its position on important overland routes contributed to the movement of peoples, armies, religions and trade across the area over many centuries.<ref name="britannica"/>


=== Early history ===
Various ancient and medieval powers controlled parts of the territory at different times. The region was influenced by Persian, Hellenistic, Buddhist, Hindu and Islamic civilizations. Kabul and other settlements became important points along wider commercial and cultural networks linking Central and South Asia.<ref name="britannica"/>


The territory of modern Afghanistan has been inhabited since ancient times and has been linked to civilizations in Central Asia, Iran and the Indian subcontinent. Parts of the region were incorporated into the Achaemenid Persian Empire and were later conquered by [[Alexander the Great]].
=== Emergence of the modern Afghan state ===
The beginning of the modern Afghan state is generally associated with [[Ahmad Shah Durrani]], who established an independent polity in 1747 following the death of the Persian ruler Nader Shah. The state created under Ahmad Shah and his successors became known as the [[Durrani Empire]].<ref name="loc-history"/>


In subsequent centuries, areas of Afghanistan were ruled or influenced by numerous political and cultural powers, including Greco-Bactrian, Kushan, Sasanian and Hephthalite states. Its location along major overland routes encouraged cultural and commercial exchange.
During the 19th century, Afghanistan became strategically important in the rivalry between the British Empire and the Russian Empire, often called the [[Great Game]]. A series of Anglo-Afghan conflicts accompanied British efforts to influence Afghan foreign affairs, while the country's modern borders were gradually defined during this period.<ref name="britannica"/>


Buddhism was influential in several regions before the spread of Islam. The Bamyan Valley became especially well known for its Buddhist monasteries and monumental statues. Islam became increasingly established following Arab and later Muslim conquests.
Afghanistan regained control over its foreign relations following the Third Anglo-Afghan War in 1919 under [[Amanullah Khan]]. The United States recognized Afghanistan in 1921 and established diplomatic relations with it in 1935.<ref name="us-relations">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan - Countries |url=https://history.state.gov/countries/afghanistan |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


Medieval Afghanistan formed part of several major Islamic states, including the Ghaznavid and Ghurid empires. The 12th-century [[Minaret of Jam]], associated with the Ghurid period, survives as one of the country's most significant medieval monuments.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Monarchy, republic and communist period ===
Afghanistan remained a monarchy until 1973, when former prime minister [[Mohammed Daoud Khan]] overthrew King [[Mohammed Zahir Shah]] and established a republic. In April 1978, members of the communist People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan seized power in the [[Saur Revolution]], killing Daoud and members of his family.<ref name="soviet"/>


=== Formation of the modern Afghan state ===
Political unrest and armed opposition expanded after the communist takeover. In December 1979, the [[Soviet Union]] sent large numbers of troops into Afghanistan, removed Hafizullah Amin and installed Babrak Karmal as leader. The intervention developed into a prolonged war against Afghan mujahideen groups.<ref name="soviet"/>


In 1747, Ahmad Shah Durrani emerged as ruler following the death of the Persian ruler Nader Shah. Ahmad Shah built a large empire extending across Afghanistan and parts of neighbouring regions and is widely associated with the foundation of the modern Afghan state.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan: Security Assistance |website=United States Department of State archive |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Soviet forces completed their withdrawal in 1989. The communist government remained in power until 1992, after which rival mujahideen factions competed for control of the country. The conflict caused heavy destruction, particularly in Kabul.<ref name="britannica"/>


His successors struggled with internal rivalries and the loss of outlying territories. During the nineteenth century, Afghanistan became strategically important in the political competition between the British Empire and the Russian Empire, often described as the [[Great Game]].
=== First Taliban government and 2001 intervention ===
The [[Taliban]] emerged during the 1990s and captured Kabul in 1996. The movement controlled most of Afghanistan until 2001 and governed through a strict interpretation of Islamic law.<ref name="britannica"/>


Britain fought three major Anglo-Afghan wars. Afghan rulers retained internal authority for much of this period, although Britain exercised strong influence over Afghan foreign relations following the Second Anglo-Afghan War.
Following the September 11 attacks in the United States and the Taliban's refusal to meet U.S. demands concerning [[Osama bin Laden]] and [[al-Qaeda]], the United States and coalition partners began military operations in Afghanistan in October 2001. Kabul fell to anti-Taliban forces in November, and the Taliban government collapsed soon afterward.<ref name="us-relations"/>


=== Independence and monarchy ===
A transitional political process produced a new constitution in 2004 and an internationally supported republic. Afghanistan nevertheless continued to experience armed conflict between government forces, foreign troops, Taliban insurgents and other armed groups for the next two decades.<ref name="britannica"/>


King [[Amanullah Khan]] came to power in 1919 and fought the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The conflict was followed by arrangements through which Afghanistan regained control over its foreign policy. The United States formally recognized Afghanistan in 1921.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan - A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Taliban return to power ===
In 2021, United States and other international forces proceeded with their final withdrawal. The Taliban rapidly expanded its territorial control during the summer. Taliban forces entered Kabul on 15 August 2021 after President [[Ashraf Ghani]] left the country, bringing the previous republic to an end in practice.<ref name="un2021"/>


Amanullah introduced political and social reforms, but resistance to his government contributed to his abdication in 1929. After another period of instability, Mohammad Nadir Shah took power. He was succeeded in 1933 by [[Mohammed Zahir Shah]], whose reign lasted four decades.
The Taliban subsequently established a new administration. United Nations bodies generally refer to this administration as the ''de facto authorities'' rather than treating recognition of the government as universal.<ref name="unama2026"/>


Afghanistan remained neutral during the Second World War and later received development assistance from both Western countries and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban-led government in July 2025. A United Nations Security Council monitoring report later recorded Russia as the country that had formally recognized the "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan", while other states maintained varying levels of diplomatic engagement without equivalent formal recognition at that time.<ref name="russia-recognition">{{cite web |title=Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government of Afghanistan |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/russia-becomes-first-country-recognise-taliban-government-afghanistan-2025-07-03/ |website=Reuters |date=3 July 2025 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref><ref name="un-monitoring">{{cite web |title=Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team |url=https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/4095910/files/S_2025_796-EN.pdf |website=United Nations Digital Library |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


=== Republic and communist period ===
== Geography ==
 
Afghanistan has no coastline. It borders Pakistan in the east and south, Iran in the west, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan in the north, and China through the Wakhan Corridor in the northeast.<ref name="britannica"/>
In 1973, former prime minister [[Mohammed Daoud Khan]] overthrew Zahir Shah while the king was abroad and abolished the monarchy, establishing a republic.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S. Response, 1978–1980 |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
Daoud was overthrown in April 1978 by the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan, a Marxist political organization. The new government's reforms and political repression faced widespread resistance, and an armed insurgency expanded across the country.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S. Response, 1978–1980 |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
=== Soviet–Afghan War ===
 
The Soviet Union deployed large numbers of troops into Afghanistan in December 1979, removed Hafizullah Amin and installed Babrak Karmal as head of the Soviet-aligned government.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S. Response, 1978–1980 |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
The intervention developed into a long war between Soviet-supported Afghan government forces and numerous mujahideen groups. The resistance received support from several foreign states, including the United States, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
 
Soviet forces completed their withdrawal in 1989. The Soviet-backed government remained in power for several more years but collapsed in 1992. Rival mujahideen factions then fought for control, and Kabul suffered extensive destruction during the civil war.
 
=== First Taliban government ===
 
The Taliban emerged in southern Afghanistan during the 1990s and captured Kandahar in 1994. The movement expanded rapidly and took Kabul in September 1996.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan country background |website=United States Department of State archive |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
By the late 1990s, the Taliban controlled most of Afghanistan, while the Northern Alliance retained territory mainly in the northeast. The Taliban imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law and placed severe restrictions on women and girls. Afghanistan also became a base for al-Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden.
 
=== 2001–2021 republic ===
 
Following the September 11 attacks in the United States, the United States demanded that the Taliban hand over Osama bin Laden and dismantle al-Qaeda's presence. U.S. and allied military operations began in October 2001, supported by Afghan anti-Taliban forces. Kabul fell to the Northern Alliance in November.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan - A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations |website=Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
The UN-supported Bonn process created a transitional political framework. A new constitution was adopted in 2004, and [[Hamid Karzai]] became president after elections that year. Parliamentary elections followed in 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan: Security Assistance |website=United States Department of State archive |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
International forces remained in Afghanistan while the Taliban rebuilt an insurgency. The conflict intensified over subsequent years despite the expansion of Afghan national security institutions.


Ashraf Ghani became president in 2014 following a disputed election and a political agreement with Abdullah Abdullah. The United States later negotiated directly with the Taliban, culminating in the 2020 Doha agreement, which set conditions for the withdrawal of U.S. forces.
The country covers about 652,230 square kilometres. Much of the landscape is mountainous or arid. The Hindu Kush is Afghanistan's dominant mountain system and extends across the central and northeastern parts of the country.<ref name="britannica"/><ref name="cia-summary">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan Country Summary |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2021/static/fd00b44e12e3769e57d57c1a5da3a826/AF-summary.pdf |website=CIA World Factbook |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


=== Taliban return to power ===
Afghanistan can broadly be divided into the central highlands, northern plains and southwestern plateau. The northern plains include comparatively fertile agricultural areas along and south of the [[Amu Darya]]. The southwest contains deserts and semidesert landscapes, including the Registan region.<ref name="britannica"/>


As foreign forces withdrew in 2021, Taliban forces captured provincial capitals at increasing speed. Kabul came under Taliban control on 15 August 2021 after President Ashraf Ghani left the country.
Major rivers include the [[Amu Darya]], [[Helmand River]], Hari River and Kabul River systems. Many rivers depend heavily on snowmelt from mountain regions, making water availability sensitive to seasonal precipitation and drought.


The Taliban re-established institutions under the title Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and formed an acting administration. Hibatullah Akhundzada remained the movement's overall leader, while Mohammad Hassan Akhund became acting prime minister. The CIA's September 2026 listing continued to identify both men in those roles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan - Leaders and Cabinet Members |website=Central Intelligence Agency |date=3 September 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Climate ===
Afghanistan generally has a dry continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers in many areas. Elevation produces major local differences in temperature and precipitation. Mountain regions can experience severe winters, while southwestern lowlands are much hotter and drier.<ref name="cia-summary"/>


Russia formally recognized the Taliban government in July 2025, becoming the first country to do so.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government of Afghanistan |website=Reuters |date=3 July 2025 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> As of 2026, other states maintained varying levels of diplomatic engagement with Kabul while generally withholding formal recognition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Taliban mark five years in power as aid groups warn of crisis |website=Reuters |date=15 August 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
The country's location in an active tectonic region also makes parts of northeastern Afghanistan vulnerable to earthquakes.<ref name="britannica"/>


== Government and politics ==
== Government and politics ==
The Taliban has exercised effective control over Afghanistan since August 2021. Its administration describes the state as the [[Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan]]. International organizations frequently use the terms ''de facto authorities'' or ''Taliban de facto authorities'' when discussing the administration.<ref name="unama2026"/>


The political system established under the 2004 constitution ceased to function as the effective national system after the Taliban takeover in August 2021. The Taliban authorities govern through an emirate structure in which Hibatullah Akhundzada holds the movement's highest leadership position.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan - Leaders and Cabinet Members |website=Central Intelligence Agency |date=3 September 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
[[Hibatullah Akhundzada]] is the Taliban's supreme leader and the movement's highest authority. [[Mohammad Hassan Akhund]] serves as acting prime minister. The Taliban administration also maintains ministries and other government institutions operating from Kabul and provincial centres.<ref name="cia-leaders"/>


The acting government includes a prime minister, deputy prime ministers and ministries responsible for areas including foreign affairs, defence, interior affairs, education and the economy. Mohammad Hassan Akhund remained listed as acting prime minister in September 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan - Leaders and Cabinet Members |website=Central Intelligence Agency |date=3 September 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Afghanistan remains a member of the [[United Nations]]. It was admitted on 19 November 1946.<ref name="un-member">{{cite web |title=Member States |url=https://www.un.org/about-us/member-states |website=United Nations |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


Formal international recognition of the administration remains limited. Russia recognized the Taliban government in 2025, while the United States and most other governments have not formally recognized it.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government of Afghanistan |website=Reuters |date=3 July 2025 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
International recognition of the Taliban-led administration remains limited. Russia formally recognized it in 2025, while many other governments have maintained diplomatic, humanitarian or technical contacts without taking the same recognition step.<ref name="russia-recognition"/><ref name="un-monitoring"/>


== Law and human rights ==
=== Human rights ===
The human-rights situation has been a major focus of international monitoring since 2021. UNAMA continues to document alleged violations and restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities, as well as civilian casualties associated with armed violence.<ref name="unama2026"/>


Since returning to power, Taliban authorities have introduced rules based on their interpretation of Islamic law. International human-rights bodies have documented extensive restrictions affecting women and girls, including limits on secondary and higher education, employment, movement and participation in public life.
Restrictions affecting women and girls have been especially significant. UNESCO reported in August 2026 that Afghanistan remained the only country in which girls and women were formally prohibited from education beyond the primary level. UNESCO estimated that approximately 2.4 million girls were excluded from secondary education in 2026, while women had been excluded from university education since 2022.<ref name="unesco-education">{{cite web |title=Five years on: UNESCO calls for the full restoration of the right to education for Afghan girls and women |url=https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/five-years-unesco-calls-full-restoration-right-education-afghan-girls-and-women?hub=800 |website=UNESCO |date=11 August 2026 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


By 2026, girls remained barred from education beyond primary school under Taliban policy.<ref>{{Cite web |title=UN rights chief says Taliban decree expands executions, deepens repression |website=Reuters |date=26 February 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> United Nations officials have also raised concerns about corporal punishment, executions, restrictions on expression and the legal position of women.<ref>{{Cite web |title=UN rights chief says Taliban decree expands executions, deepens repression |website=Reuters |date=26 February 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
The United Nations has also reported restrictions on women's participation in public life, employment and access to UN workplaces in Afghanistan.<ref name="un-women-2026">{{cite web |title=Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Afghanistan |url=https://unama.unmissions.org/en/news/statement-attributable-to-the-spokesperson-for-the-secretary-general-on-afghanistan |website=United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan |date=7 September 2026 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


The Taliban authorities argue that their policies are based on Islamic principles and Afghan social values. Their treatment of women and girls nevertheless remains one of the central areas of disagreement between the administration and much of the international community.
== Administrative divisions ==
Afghanistan is divided into 34 provinces. Provincial administrations are further divided into districts. Kabul Province contains the national capital.


== Foreign relations ==
Major cities include [[Kabul]], [[Kandahar]], [[Herat]], [[Mazar-i-Sharif]], [[Jalalabad]], [[Kunduz]] and [[Ghazni]].


Afghanistan is a member of the [[United Nations]] and maintains historical diplomatic relationships with countries throughout Asia, the Middle East, Europe and other regions.
== Economy ==
Afghanistan has a low-income economy that has been strongly affected by decades of conflict, political uncertainty, limited infrastructure, changes in foreign assistance and isolation from parts of the international financial system.


Since 2021, neighbouring and regional governments have continued diplomatic, economic and security contacts with the Taliban authorities despite broad reluctance to formally recognize the government. Russia granted formal recognition in July 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government of Afghanistan |website=Reuters |date=3 July 2025 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
The World Bank reported that the events of August 2021 were followed by a sharp economic contraction and major disruption to international aid, banking connections, investment and public services. Economic activity later began to recover gradually, although poverty, food insecurity, unemployment, weak investment and restrictions on women's economic participation remained major structural problems.<ref name="worldbank-overview">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan |url=https://www.worldbank.org/ext/en/country/afghanistan |website=World Bank |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


Relations with Pakistan have become increasingly strained over cross-border militancy and accusations concerning armed groups operating near or across the frontier. Fighting and airstrikes occurred along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border during 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pakistan says it killed 28 militants, Afghan Taliban and UN report three civilian deaths |website=Reuters |date=21 September 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
World Bank data recorded a nominal gross domestic product of approximately US$17.78 billion for 2024 and a population of 43,844,111 for 2025.<ref name="worldbank-data">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan - Data |url=https://data.worldbank.org/country/AF |website=World Bank |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>
 
Afghanistan also maintains important economic and political links with Iran, China, Russia and the Central Asian republics.
 
== Economy ==


Afghanistan has a low-income economy in which agriculture, trade, services, construction and natural resources play important roles. Decades of conflict, limited infrastructure, weak access to finance and dependence on international assistance have constrained long-term development.
The World Bank estimated in May 2026 that real economic output had continued to grow, but said rapid population growth and large return movements of Afghans were putting pressure on income per person, jobs, infrastructure and public services. Limited finance, unreliable electricity, weak investment and dependence on imports remained important constraints on private-sector development.<ref name="worldbank2026">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan's Economy Shows Resilience, But Living Standards Are Falling |url=https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/05/26/afghanistan-s-economy-shows-resilience-but-living-standards-are-falling |website=World Bank |date=26 May 2026 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


The World Bank estimated Afghanistan's GDP at about US$17.8 billion in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan Data |website=World Bank |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> Economic output returned to growth after a major contraction following the political transition of 2021. The World Bank estimated real GDP growth of 4.8 percent in 2025, but reported that rapid population growth and the arrival of millions of returnees caused GDP per person to decline.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan’s Economy Shows Resilience but living standards are falling |website=World Bank |date=26 May 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Agriculture and food security ===
Agriculture remains important for employment and rural livelihoods. Wheat is one of the country's principal crops, while livestock, fruit, nuts and other agricultural products also contribute to rural incomes.


Agriculture remains important for employment and food production. Major products include wheat, fruit, nuts and livestock. Mining and quarrying also contribute to economic activity, and Afghanistan has deposits of copper, iron, coal, precious stones and other minerals.
The Food and Agriculture Organization reported in September 2026 that Afghanistan's 2025–26 wheat harvest was forecast at an above-average level, but cereal import requirements remained substantial. FAO estimated that about 13.8 million people faced acute food insecurity between April and November 2026.<ref name="fao2026">{{cite web |title=FAO GIEWS Country Brief on Afghanistan |url=https://cb.apps.fao.org/country.jsp?code=AFG |website=Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations |date=15 September 2026 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


The World Bank reported continuing difficulties including poverty, food insecurity, unemployment, reduced foreign assistance, a large trade deficit, limited access to formal finance and unreliable electricity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan’s Economy Shows Resilience but living standards are falling |website=World Bank |date=26 May 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Mining and natural resources ===
Afghanistan contains deposits of coal, natural gas, copper and other minerals. Mining has received attention as a possible source of state revenue and private investment, but development has been constrained by infrastructure limitations, financing problems, regulatory uncertainty and political risk.<ref name="worldbank-overview"/>


The national currency is the '''afghani'''. Afghanistan's central-bank law identifies the afghani as the country's monetary unit, and Da Afghanistan Bank has the exclusive authority to issue national banknotes and coins.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Da Afghanistan Bank Law |website=Da Afghanistan Bank |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Currency ===
The national currency is the [[Afghan afghani]], commonly abbreviated as AFN. Da Afghanistan Bank states that the afghani is Afghanistan's monetary unit and is used for official monetary transactions.<ref name="dab">{{cite web |title=Da Afghanistan Bank Notification |url=https://dab.gov.af/node/7035 |website=Da Afghanistan Bank |date=15 September 2021 |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


== Demographics ==
== Demographics ==
Afghanistan has a young and ethnically diverse population. Major communities include Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras and Uzbeks, alongside Turkmen, Aimaq, Baloch, Nuristani, Pashai and other groups.<ref name="cia-summary"/>


Reliable demographic measurement is difficult because Afghanistan has experienced decades of conflict, displacement and large-scale migration. World Bank figures estimated the population at 43,844,111 in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=World Development Indicators: Population, Afghanistan |website=World Bank |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Reliable demographic measurement has historically been difficult because of conflict, displacement, migration and incomplete census coverage. World Bank estimates placed the country's population at about 43.8 million in 2025.<ref name="worldbank-data"/>


Afghanistan is ethnically diverse. Major communities include Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras and Uzbeks, alongside Turkmen, Aimaq, Baloch, Nuristani, Pashai and other groups. Historical and modern maps produced by institutions such as the Library of Congress demonstrate the country's complex ethnolinguistic geography.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ethnolinguistic groups in Afghanistan |website=Library of Congress |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Large numbers of Afghans have also lived outside the country as refugees, migrants or displaced persons during successive periods of conflict. Population movements from neighbouring states have continued to affect Afghanistan's labour market, housing, food supply and public services.<ref name="worldbank2026"/>


Large Afghan communities also live outside the country, particularly in neighbouring Pakistan and Iran. Migration has repeatedly increased during periods of war or political upheaval. Millions of Afghans returned or were deported from neighbouring states during the mid-2020s, placing additional pressure on jobs, housing and public services.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan’s Economy Shows Resilience but living standards are falling |website=World Bank |date=26 May 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
=== Languages ===
Dari and Pashto are the two principal official languages traditionally recognized by the Afghan state. The 2004 constitution designated Pashto and Dari as official languages and provided for additional regional official status for several other languages in areas where they were spoken by a majority.<ref name="constitution">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan 2004 Constitution |url=https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Afghanistan_2004 |website=Constitute Project |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


== Languages ==
Other languages spoken in Afghanistan include Uzbek, Turkmen, Balochi, Pashai, Nuristani and Pamiri languages.<ref name="constitution"/>


Dari and Pashto have long been the two principal official languages of the Afghan state. Article 16 of the 2004 constitution identified both as official languages and provided for additional official use of Uzbek, Turkmen, Pashai, Nuristani, Balochi and Pamiri languages in areas where they were spoken by a majority.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan's Constitution of 2004 |website=Constitute Project |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
Dari functions widely as a lingua franca between communities, while Pashto is particularly important across southern and eastern regions and among Pashtun communities.<ref name="cia-summary"/>


Dari, an Afghan variety of Persian, is widely used as a common language between communities and has historically been important in administration, literature and urban life. Pashto is spoken particularly widely in the south and east, as well as by communities in other parts of the country.
=== Religion ===
Islam is the dominant religion in Afghanistan. Most Afghan Muslims are Sunni, while a significant minority, including many Hazaras, follow Shia Islam. Smaller religious communities have also existed historically.<ref name="cia-summary"/>


Numerous other Iranian, Turkic and Nuristani languages are spoken, reflecting Afghanistan's ethnolinguistic diversity.
== Education ==
Afghanistan's education system expanded substantially during the two decades after 2001, including increased school attendance by girls. These gains were substantially affected after the Taliban returned to power in 2021.


== Religion ==
Girls are currently permitted access to primary education but remain excluded by the de facto authorities from formal secondary schooling. Women have also been barred from universities since 2022. UNESCO estimated in 2026 that 2.4 million girls were excluded from secondary education.<ref name="unesco-education"/>


Islam is the dominant religion in Afghanistan and has played a major role in the country's social, cultural and political history. Most Afghan Muslims are Sunni, while a substantial part of the Hazara population and some other communities follow Shia Islam.
UNESCO and partner organizations continue to operate community-based education, literacy, skills and distance-learning programmes, but the organization states that these programmes are not substitutes for unrestricted access to formal schooling.<ref name="unesco-education"/>


Afghanistan has also been home historically to smaller Sikh, Hindu, Jewish and other religious communities, although many members of these groups emigrated during decades of instability and conflict.
== Health ==
Afghanistan's health system has faced long-standing difficulties including shortages of funding, trained personnel, facilities and medical supplies, particularly in rural and remote areas. Conflict, poverty, displacement and geographic isolation have further complicated access to healthcare.


== Culture ==
World Bank data recorded average life expectancy at birth at approximately 66 years in 2024.<ref name="worldbank-data"/>


Afghan culture reflects influences from Persianate, Central Asian, South Asian and local traditions. Regional differences are visible in language, clothing, food, music, architecture and social customs.
== Infrastructure ==
Afghanistan's mountainous terrain has historically complicated construction and maintenance of transport networks. Roads provide the main form of internal transport, linking Kabul with major provincial centres and neighbouring countries.


Poetry has a particularly important place in Afghan cultural life. Persian-language literary traditions are deeply established in western and northern Afghanistan, while Pashto has its own major poetic tradition. Oral storytelling and regional folk traditions also remain significant.
Air transport connects Kabul and several regional cities. Afghanistan has no seacoast, so international trade depends heavily on road, rail and transit routes through neighbouring states.


Traditional crafts include carpet weaving, embroidery, ceramics, metalwork, woodwork and jewellery. Afghan carpets are produced in several regional styles and remain an important craft and trade product.
Electricity supply has expanded over time but remains constrained by domestic generation capacity and infrastructure. The country imports a significant share of its electricity from neighbouring Central Asian states and Iran.


Cuisine varies by region but commonly uses rice, wheat, meat, vegetables, dairy products, dried fruit and nuts. ''Kabuli palaw'', a rice dish commonly prepared with meat, carrots and raisins, is widely associated with Afghan cuisine.
Afghanistan uses the international telephone calling code +93.<ref name="itu">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan (country code +93) |url=https://www.itu.int/dms_pub/itu-t/oth/02/02/T02020000010003PDFE.pdf |website=International Telecommunication Union |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


== Heritage ==
== Culture ==
 
Afghanistan's culture reflects its position between Central Asia, South Asia and the Iranian cultural sphere. Its communities maintain diverse traditions in language, poetry, music, clothing, crafts, architecture and cuisine.
Afghanistan contains archaeological and architectural sites representing Buddhist, Islamic and other periods of its history.
 
UNESCO lists two Afghan properties on the World Heritage List: the '''Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam''', inscribed in 2002, and the '''Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley''', inscribed in 2003.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Afghanistan |website=UNESCO World Heritage Convention |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
The Minaret of Jam is a 12th-century brick tower approximately 65 metres high, decorated with intricate brickwork and inscriptions. It is associated with the Ghurid civilization.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref> UNESCO continued to list the site as World Heritage in Danger in 2026 because of conservation and environmental threats.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Decision 48 COM 7A.24 |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |year=2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
The Bamiyan Valley preserves archaeological remains of Buddhist monastic communities and the niches where two monumental Buddha statues stood before their destruction by the Taliban in 2001.
 
Historic urban centres such as Herat, Balkh, Ghazni and Kabul contain monuments associated with different periods of Afghan history.
 
== Education ==
 
Afghanistan's education system expanded considerably after 2001, with millions of children entering schools and higher-education institutions. Progress remained uneven because of insecurity, poverty, shortages of teachers and major differences between urban and rural areas.
 
Following the Taliban takeover in 2021, access to education became sharply divided by gender. Girls were prevented from continuing normal schooling beyond the primary level, while women were later barred from universities.<ref>{{Cite web |title=UN rights chief says Taliban decree expands executions, deepens repression |website=Reuters |date=26 February 2026 |access-date=23 September 2026}}</ref>
 
The restrictions have drawn repeated criticism from United Nations agencies, governments and humanitarian organizations. Taliban officials have maintained that education policy must comply with their interpretation of Islamic and cultural requirements.
 
== Health ==
 
Afghanistan's health system has been shaped by decades of conflict, poverty and international assistance. Major challenges include maternal and child health, malnutrition, infectious diseases, limited specialist care and shortages of health workers in rural areas.


Humanitarian organizations and international agencies continue to support hospitals, clinics, vaccination programmes and nutrition services. Reduced international funding and restrictions affecting female workers have created additional pressures on service delivery.
Dari and Pashto both have long literary traditions. Poetry has played a prominent role in Afghan cultural life, while oral poetry and storytelling remain important in many communities.


== Infrastructure and transport ==
Traditional crafts include carpet weaving, embroidery, metalwork, woodwork and ceramics. Afghan cuisine commonly includes rice dishes, bread, meat, pulses, vegetables, yoghurt and dried or fresh fruit, with regional variations across the country.


Afghanistan's mountainous terrain makes transport difficult. Roads remain the principal means of domestic travel and trade.
=== Cultural heritage ===
Afghanistan possesses archaeological and architectural remains reflecting Buddhist, Islamic and other periods of its history.


A major highway network links Kabul with cities including Kandahar, Herat and Mazar-i-Sharif. Mountain passes such as the Salang Pass are strategically important because they connect northern Afghanistan with Kabul and the rest of the country.
UNESCO lists two Afghan properties as World Heritage Sites: the [[Minaret of Jam|Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam]], inscribed in 2002, and the [[Bamiyan Valley|Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley]], inscribed in 2003.<ref name="unesco-wh">{{cite web |title=Afghanistan - UNESCO World Heritage Convention |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/af |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


The country has several international airports, including airports serving Kabul, Kandahar, Herat and Mazar-i-Sharif. Afghanistan has historically had only a limited railway network, although cross-border rail connections with neighbouring Central Asian countries have expanded.
Both properties remained on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2026. The Minaret of Jam, a 12th-century brick minaret standing about 65 metres high in Ghor Province, is noted for its architecture, inscriptions and decorative brickwork.<ref name="unesco-jam">{{cite web |title=Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/211/ |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |access-date=29 September 2026}}</ref>


== Media and communications ==
The Bamiyan Valley contains archaeological remains from the period when the region was an important Buddhist centre along trans-Asian trade routes. The two monumental standing Buddha statues for which the valley became internationally known were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001.
 
Afghanistan developed a diverse television, radio and online media sector during the period after 2001. Following the Taliban return to power, journalists and media organizations have operated under increased restrictions concerning content, employment and public presentation.
 
Mobile telecommunications expanded rapidly during the first two decades of the twenty-first century and became a major method of communication. Internet access has also increased, particularly in urban centres, although availability and quality vary significantly.


== Environment ==
== Environment ==
Afghanistan contains environments ranging from high alpine mountains and grasslands to dry steppe and desert. Water availability is a major environmental concern because much of the country depends on seasonal rain and snowmelt.


Afghanistan faces environmental pressures including drought, desertification, soil erosion, deforestation, water scarcity and damage caused by extreme weather.
Drought, floods, earthquakes, land degradation and changing precipitation patterns have repeatedly affected agriculture and rural livelihoods. These pressures combine with poverty and limited infrastructure to increase vulnerability in many communities.


Its reliance on seasonal snowfall makes water availability sensitive to changing precipitation patterns and temperature. Floods and droughts periodically affect agricultural production and rural communities.
[[Band-e Amir]] in Bamiyan Province is known for a group of high-altitude lakes surrounded by limestone and mountainous terrain.


Afghanistan also lies in a geologically active region and experiences damaging earthquakes. Mountainous northeastern and western regions have experienced particularly destructive earthquakes in recent decades.
== International relations ==
Afghanistan joined the United Nations in 1946 and remains a UN member state.<ref name="un-member"/>


== Sport ==
Its location gives it important relations with neighbouring Pakistan, Iran, China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, as well as with other regional and global powers.


Traditional sports include ''buzkashi'', in which mounted riders compete for control of an animal carcass or equivalent competition object. The sport has strong cultural associations with northern and central Afghanistan.
Since 2021, foreign relations have been shaped by questions concerning recognition of the Taliban administration, humanitarian assistance, terrorism, human rights, migration, trade and regional security. Russia formally recognized the Taliban-led government in 2025, while other governments have pursued differing levels of engagement.<ref name="russia-recognition"/><ref name="un-monitoring"/>


[[Cricket]] became one of Afghanistan's most internationally successful modern sports during the twenty-first century. The Afghanistan national cricket team has competed in major international tournaments.
The [[United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan]] continues to operate in the country. Its work includes political engagement, human-rights monitoring and coordination with international and Afghan stakeholders.<ref name="unama2026"/>


Football is also widely played, along with wrestling, martial arts and other sports.
== Did you know about Afghanistan? ==
* Afghanistan has no coastline and shares borders with six countries: Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China.<ref name="britannica"/>
* The modern Afghan state is commonly traced to Ahmad Shah Durrani's rise in 1747.<ref name="loc-history"/>
* Afghanistan became a member of the United Nations on 19 November 1946.<ref name="un-member"/>
* The narrow Wakhan Corridor gives Afghanistan a short border with China in the country's far northeast.<ref name="britannica"/>
* UNESCO lists two World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan: the Bamiyan Valley and the Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam.<ref name="unesco-wh"/>
* UNESCO estimated in 2026 that about 2.4 million Afghan girls were excluded from secondary education under restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities.<ref name="unesco-education"/>
* FAO estimated that approximately 13.8 million people in Afghanistan faced acute food insecurity between April and November 2026.<ref name="fao2026"/>
* Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban-led government after its return to power, doing so in July 2025.<ref name="russia-recognition"/>


== See also ==
== See also ==
* [[Kabul]]
* [[Kabul]]
* [[History of Afghanistan]]
* [[Hindu Kush]]
* [[Hindu Kush]]
* [[Central Asia]]
* [[South Asia]]
* [[Taliban]]
* [[Afghan afghani]]
* [[Bamiyan Valley]]
* [[Bamiyan Valley]]
* [[Minaret of Jam]]
* [[Band-e Amir]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 274: Line 236:


== External links ==
== External links ==
 
* [https://afghanistan.un.org/ United Nations in Afghanistan]
* United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan
* [https://unama.unmissions.org/ United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan]
* World Bank – Afghanistan
* [https://www.worldbank.org/ext/en/country/afghanistan World Bank – Afghanistan]
* UNESCO World Heritage – Afghanistan
* [https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/af UNESCO World Heritage Convention – Afghanistan]
* Da Afghanistan Bank
* [https://www.dab.gov.af/ Da Afghanistan Bank]


[[Category:Afghanistan]]
[[Category:Afghanistan]]
[[Category:Countries in Asia]]
[[Category:Countries in Asia]]
[[Category:Central Asian countries]]
[[Category:South Asian countries]]
[[Category:Landlocked countries]]
[[Category:Landlocked countries]]
[[Category:Central Asia]]
[[Category:South Asia]]
[[Category:Member states of the United Nations]]
[[Category:Member states of the United Nations]]

Latest revision as of 08:44, 29 September 2026

Afghanistan
Country

Flag of Afghanistan

Flag of Afghanistan


Native name
افغانستان




Capital
Kabul
Largest city
Kabul
Continent
Asia
Region
South-central Asia
Official languages
Dari and Pashto


Demonym
Afghan
Government
De facto Islamic emirate under Taliban rule
Supreme Leader
Hibatullah Akhundzada
Acting Prime Minister
Mohammad Hassan Akhund


Formation
Modern Afghan state conventionally dated to 1747; independence in foreign affairs achieved in 1919
Area
652,230 km²
Water (%)
0
Population
43,844,111(2025)



GDP (nominal)
US$17.78 billion(2024)
Currency
Afghan afghani(AFN)
Time zone
Afghanistan Time
Driving side
right
Calling code
+93
Internet TLD
.af
ISO alpha-2
AF
ISO alpha-3
AFG
ISO numeric
004
Coordinates
33°N 65°E


Map of Afghanistan showing its provincial boundaries

Map of Afghanistan

Afghanistan is a landlocked country in south-central Asia. It lies between Iran to the west, Pakistan to the east and south, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to the north, and China at the eastern end of the narrow Wakhan Corridor. Its capital and largest city is Kabul. Afghanistan's terrain is dominated by mountains, particularly the Hindu Kush, together with high plateaus, northern plains and desert regions.[1]

Afghanistan has been a meeting point between Central Asia, South Asia, the Iranian plateau and the Middle East for centuries. The modern Afghan state is commonly associated with the rise of Ahmad Shah Durrani in 1747. Afghanistan later became a focus of rivalry between the British and Russian empires, and its modern international boundaries largely emerged during the 19th century.[2][1]

The country experienced repeated political upheaval and warfare during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, including the Soviet intervention beginning in 1979, civil war, the first period of Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, the United States-led military intervention beginning in 2001, and the restoration of Taliban control in August 2021.[3][4]

Since August 2021, Afghanistan has been governed in practice by the Taliban. International organizations, including the United Nations, commonly describe the Taliban administration as the country's de facto authorities. Hibatullah Akhundzada is the overall Taliban leader, while Mohammad Hassan Akhund serves as acting prime minister.[5][6]

Name

The English name Afghanistan is used internationally for the country. In Dari and Pashto, the country is written افغانستان. The term Afghan is used as the demonym for a citizen of Afghanistan.

United Nations geographical-name records list Afghanistan as the country's English short name. Dari and Pashto forms are also recorded in the United Nations geographical-names system.[7]

History

Early and pre-modern history

The territory of present-day Afghanistan has historically connected regions of Central Asia, Iran and the Indian subcontinent. Its position on important overland routes contributed to the movement of peoples, armies, religions and trade across the area over many centuries.[1]

Various ancient and medieval powers controlled parts of the territory at different times. The region was influenced by Persian, Hellenistic, Buddhist, Hindu and Islamic civilizations. Kabul and other settlements became important points along wider commercial and cultural networks linking Central and South Asia.[1]

Emergence of the modern Afghan state

The beginning of the modern Afghan state is generally associated with Ahmad Shah Durrani, who established an independent polity in 1747 following the death of the Persian ruler Nader Shah. The state created under Ahmad Shah and his successors became known as the Durrani Empire.[2]

During the 19th century, Afghanistan became strategically important in the rivalry between the British Empire and the Russian Empire, often called the Great Game. A series of Anglo-Afghan conflicts accompanied British efforts to influence Afghan foreign affairs, while the country's modern borders were gradually defined during this period.[1]

Afghanistan regained control over its foreign relations following the Third Anglo-Afghan War in 1919 under Amanullah Khan. The United States recognized Afghanistan in 1921 and established diplomatic relations with it in 1935.[8]

Monarchy, republic and communist period

Afghanistan remained a monarchy until 1973, when former prime minister Mohammed Daoud Khan overthrew King Mohammed Zahir Shah and established a republic. In April 1978, members of the communist People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan seized power in the Saur Revolution, killing Daoud and members of his family.[3]

Political unrest and armed opposition expanded after the communist takeover. In December 1979, the Soviet Union sent large numbers of troops into Afghanistan, removed Hafizullah Amin and installed Babrak Karmal as leader. The intervention developed into a prolonged war against Afghan mujahideen groups.[3]

Soviet forces completed their withdrawal in 1989. The communist government remained in power until 1992, after which rival mujahideen factions competed for control of the country. The conflict caused heavy destruction, particularly in Kabul.[1]

First Taliban government and 2001 intervention

The Taliban emerged during the 1990s and captured Kabul in 1996. The movement controlled most of Afghanistan until 2001 and governed through a strict interpretation of Islamic law.[1]

Following the September 11 attacks in the United States and the Taliban's refusal to meet U.S. demands concerning Osama bin Laden and al-Qaeda, the United States and coalition partners began military operations in Afghanistan in October 2001. Kabul fell to anti-Taliban forces in November, and the Taliban government collapsed soon afterward.[8]

A transitional political process produced a new constitution in 2004 and an internationally supported republic. Afghanistan nevertheless continued to experience armed conflict between government forces, foreign troops, Taliban insurgents and other armed groups for the next two decades.[1]

Taliban return to power

In 2021, United States and other international forces proceeded with their final withdrawal. The Taliban rapidly expanded its territorial control during the summer. Taliban forces entered Kabul on 15 August 2021 after President Ashraf Ghani left the country, bringing the previous republic to an end in practice.[4]

The Taliban subsequently established a new administration. United Nations bodies generally refer to this administration as the de facto authorities rather than treating recognition of the government as universal.[6]

Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban-led government in July 2025. A United Nations Security Council monitoring report later recorded Russia as the country that had formally recognized the "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan", while other states maintained varying levels of diplomatic engagement without equivalent formal recognition at that time.[9][10]

Geography

Afghanistan has no coastline. It borders Pakistan in the east and south, Iran in the west, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan in the north, and China through the Wakhan Corridor in the northeast.[1]

The country covers about 652,230 square kilometres. Much of the landscape is mountainous or arid. The Hindu Kush is Afghanistan's dominant mountain system and extends across the central and northeastern parts of the country.[1][11]

Afghanistan can broadly be divided into the central highlands, northern plains and southwestern plateau. The northern plains include comparatively fertile agricultural areas along and south of the Amu Darya. The southwest contains deserts and semidesert landscapes, including the Registan region.[1]

Major rivers include the Amu Darya, Helmand River, Hari River and Kabul River systems. Many rivers depend heavily on snowmelt from mountain regions, making water availability sensitive to seasonal precipitation and drought.

Climate

Afghanistan generally has a dry continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers in many areas. Elevation produces major local differences in temperature and precipitation. Mountain regions can experience severe winters, while southwestern lowlands are much hotter and drier.[11]

The country's location in an active tectonic region also makes parts of northeastern Afghanistan vulnerable to earthquakes.[1]

Government and politics

The Taliban has exercised effective control over Afghanistan since August 2021. Its administration describes the state as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. International organizations frequently use the terms de facto authorities or Taliban de facto authorities when discussing the administration.[6]

Hibatullah Akhundzada is the Taliban's supreme leader and the movement's highest authority. Mohammad Hassan Akhund serves as acting prime minister. The Taliban administration also maintains ministries and other government institutions operating from Kabul and provincial centres.[5]

Afghanistan remains a member of the United Nations. It was admitted on 19 November 1946.[12]

International recognition of the Taliban-led administration remains limited. Russia formally recognized it in 2025, while many other governments have maintained diplomatic, humanitarian or technical contacts without taking the same recognition step.[9][10]

Human rights

The human-rights situation has been a major focus of international monitoring since 2021. UNAMA continues to document alleged violations and restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities, as well as civilian casualties associated with armed violence.[6]

Restrictions affecting women and girls have been especially significant. UNESCO reported in August 2026 that Afghanistan remained the only country in which girls and women were formally prohibited from education beyond the primary level. UNESCO estimated that approximately 2.4 million girls were excluded from secondary education in 2026, while women had been excluded from university education since 2022.[13]

The United Nations has also reported restrictions on women's participation in public life, employment and access to UN workplaces in Afghanistan.[14]

Administrative divisions

Afghanistan is divided into 34 provinces. Provincial administrations are further divided into districts. Kabul Province contains the national capital.

Major cities include Kabul, Kandahar, Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif, Jalalabad, Kunduz and Ghazni.

Economy

Afghanistan has a low-income economy that has been strongly affected by decades of conflict, political uncertainty, limited infrastructure, changes in foreign assistance and isolation from parts of the international financial system.

The World Bank reported that the events of August 2021 were followed by a sharp economic contraction and major disruption to international aid, banking connections, investment and public services. Economic activity later began to recover gradually, although poverty, food insecurity, unemployment, weak investment and restrictions on women's economic participation remained major structural problems.[15]

World Bank data recorded a nominal gross domestic product of approximately US$17.78 billion for 2024 and a population of 43,844,111 for 2025.[16]

The World Bank estimated in May 2026 that real economic output had continued to grow, but said rapid population growth and large return movements of Afghans were putting pressure on income per person, jobs, infrastructure and public services. Limited finance, unreliable electricity, weak investment and dependence on imports remained important constraints on private-sector development.[17]

Agriculture and food security

Agriculture remains important for employment and rural livelihoods. Wheat is one of the country's principal crops, while livestock, fruit, nuts and other agricultural products also contribute to rural incomes.

The Food and Agriculture Organization reported in September 2026 that Afghanistan's 2025–26 wheat harvest was forecast at an above-average level, but cereal import requirements remained substantial. FAO estimated that about 13.8 million people faced acute food insecurity between April and November 2026.[18]

Mining and natural resources

Afghanistan contains deposits of coal, natural gas, copper and other minerals. Mining has received attention as a possible source of state revenue and private investment, but development has been constrained by infrastructure limitations, financing problems, regulatory uncertainty and political risk.[15]

Currency

The national currency is the Afghan afghani, commonly abbreviated as AFN. Da Afghanistan Bank states that the afghani is Afghanistan's monetary unit and is used for official monetary transactions.[19]

Demographics

Afghanistan has a young and ethnically diverse population. Major communities include Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras and Uzbeks, alongside Turkmen, Aimaq, Baloch, Nuristani, Pashai and other groups.[11]

Reliable demographic measurement has historically been difficult because of conflict, displacement, migration and incomplete census coverage. World Bank estimates placed the country's population at about 43.8 million in 2025.[16]

Large numbers of Afghans have also lived outside the country as refugees, migrants or displaced persons during successive periods of conflict. Population movements from neighbouring states have continued to affect Afghanistan's labour market, housing, food supply and public services.[17]

Languages

Dari and Pashto are the two principal official languages traditionally recognized by the Afghan state. The 2004 constitution designated Pashto and Dari as official languages and provided for additional regional official status for several other languages in areas where they were spoken by a majority.[20]

Other languages spoken in Afghanistan include Uzbek, Turkmen, Balochi, Pashai, Nuristani and Pamiri languages.[20]

Dari functions widely as a lingua franca between communities, while Pashto is particularly important across southern and eastern regions and among Pashtun communities.[11]

Religion

Islam is the dominant religion in Afghanistan. Most Afghan Muslims are Sunni, while a significant minority, including many Hazaras, follow Shia Islam. Smaller religious communities have also existed historically.[11]

Education

Afghanistan's education system expanded substantially during the two decades after 2001, including increased school attendance by girls. These gains were substantially affected after the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

Girls are currently permitted access to primary education but remain excluded by the de facto authorities from formal secondary schooling. Women have also been barred from universities since 2022. UNESCO estimated in 2026 that 2.4 million girls were excluded from secondary education.[13]

UNESCO and partner organizations continue to operate community-based education, literacy, skills and distance-learning programmes, but the organization states that these programmes are not substitutes for unrestricted access to formal schooling.[13]

Health

Afghanistan's health system has faced long-standing difficulties including shortages of funding, trained personnel, facilities and medical supplies, particularly in rural and remote areas. Conflict, poverty, displacement and geographic isolation have further complicated access to healthcare.

World Bank data recorded average life expectancy at birth at approximately 66 years in 2024.[16]

Infrastructure

Afghanistan's mountainous terrain has historically complicated construction and maintenance of transport networks. Roads provide the main form of internal transport, linking Kabul with major provincial centres and neighbouring countries.

Air transport connects Kabul and several regional cities. Afghanistan has no seacoast, so international trade depends heavily on road, rail and transit routes through neighbouring states.

Electricity supply has expanded over time but remains constrained by domestic generation capacity and infrastructure. The country imports a significant share of its electricity from neighbouring Central Asian states and Iran.

Afghanistan uses the international telephone calling code +93.[21]

Culture

Afghanistan's culture reflects its position between Central Asia, South Asia and the Iranian cultural sphere. Its communities maintain diverse traditions in language, poetry, music, clothing, crafts, architecture and cuisine.

Dari and Pashto both have long literary traditions. Poetry has played a prominent role in Afghan cultural life, while oral poetry and storytelling remain important in many communities.

Traditional crafts include carpet weaving, embroidery, metalwork, woodwork and ceramics. Afghan cuisine commonly includes rice dishes, bread, meat, pulses, vegetables, yoghurt and dried or fresh fruit, with regional variations across the country.

Cultural heritage

Afghanistan possesses archaeological and architectural remains reflecting Buddhist, Islamic and other periods of its history.

UNESCO lists two Afghan properties as World Heritage Sites: the Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam, inscribed in 2002, and the Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley, inscribed in 2003.[22]

Both properties remained on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2026. The Minaret of Jam, a 12th-century brick minaret standing about 65 metres high in Ghor Province, is noted for its architecture, inscriptions and decorative brickwork.[23]

The Bamiyan Valley contains archaeological remains from the period when the region was an important Buddhist centre along trans-Asian trade routes. The two monumental standing Buddha statues for which the valley became internationally known were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001.

Environment

Afghanistan contains environments ranging from high alpine mountains and grasslands to dry steppe and desert. Water availability is a major environmental concern because much of the country depends on seasonal rain and snowmelt.

Drought, floods, earthquakes, land degradation and changing precipitation patterns have repeatedly affected agriculture and rural livelihoods. These pressures combine with poverty and limited infrastructure to increase vulnerability in many communities.

Band-e Amir in Bamiyan Province is known for a group of high-altitude lakes surrounded by limestone and mountainous terrain.

International relations

Afghanistan joined the United Nations in 1946 and remains a UN member state.[12]

Its location gives it important relations with neighbouring Pakistan, Iran, China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, as well as with other regional and global powers.

Since 2021, foreign relations have been shaped by questions concerning recognition of the Taliban administration, humanitarian assistance, terrorism, human rights, migration, trade and regional security. Russia formally recognized the Taliban-led government in 2025, while other governments have pursued differing levels of engagement.[9][10]

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan continues to operate in the country. Its work includes political engagement, human-rights monitoring and coordination with international and Afghan stakeholders.[6]

Did you know about Afghanistan?

  • Afghanistan has no coastline and shares borders with six countries: Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China.[1]
  • The modern Afghan state is commonly traced to Ahmad Shah Durrani's rise in 1747.[2]
  • Afghanistan became a member of the United Nations on 19 November 1946.[12]
  • The narrow Wakhan Corridor gives Afghanistan a short border with China in the country's far northeast.[1]
  • UNESCO lists two World Heritage Sites in Afghanistan: the Bamiyan Valley and the Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam.[22]
  • UNESCO estimated in 2026 that about 2.4 million Afghan girls were excluded from secondary education under restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities.[13]
  • FAO estimated that approximately 13.8 million people in Afghanistan faced acute food insecurity between April and November 2026.[18]
  • Russia became the first country to formally recognize the Taliban-led government after its return to power, doing so in July 2025.[9]

See also

References

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 Afghanistan. Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Kitāb musṭatāb-i Sirāj al-tavārīkh. Library of Congress. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan and the U.S. Response, 1978–1980. Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 2021 UN Country Annual Results Report. United Nations in Afghanistan. 31 March 2022. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Afghanistan - World Leaders. Central Intelligence Agency. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Update on the Human Rights Situation in Afghanistan (April to June 2026). United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan. 28 July 2026. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  7. ↑ Country Details - Afghanistan. United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Afghanistan - Countries. Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 Russia becomes first country to recognise Taliban government of Afghanistan. Reuters. 3 July 2025. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team. United Nations Digital Library. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 Afghanistan Country Summary. CIA World Factbook. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 Member States. United Nations. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 Five years on: UNESCO calls for the full restoration of the right to education for Afghan girls and women. UNESCO. 11 August 2026. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  14. ↑ Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Afghanistan. United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan. 7 September 2026. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Afghanistan. World Bank. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 Afghanistan - Data. World Bank. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 Afghanistan's Economy Shows Resilience, But Living Standards Are Falling. World Bank. 26 May 2026. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 FAO GIEWS Country Brief on Afghanistan. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 15 September 2026. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  19. ↑ Da Afghanistan Bank Notification. Da Afghanistan Bank. 15 September 2021. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 Afghanistan 2004 Constitution. Constitute Project. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  21. ↑ Afghanistan (country code +93). International Telecommunication Union. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 Afghanistan - UNESCO World Heritage Convention. UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
  23. ↑ Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam. UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Retrieved 29 September 2026.
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