When talking about Afghanistan, a landlocked nation in South‑Central Asia known for its towering mountains and centuries‑old trade routes. Also called the Afghan Republic, it has faced prolonged conflict while preserving a vibrant cultural mosaic. The political scene is dominated by the Taliban, the group that took control in 2021 and now shapes governance, law, and daily life. At the heart of the country lies Kabul, the capital city that balances historic mosques with modern challenges. Together these entities form the core of today’s Afghan narrative.
Geographically, Afghanistan is defined by the Hindukush range, a spine of peaks that influences climate, agriculture, and transport. Over 40 ethnic groups call the nation home, with Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, and Uzbeks contributing distinct languages, traditions, and cuisines. Such diversity fuels both social richness and political complexity; regional alliances often reflect ethnic loyalties. Economically, the country relies on agriculture, mining, and a bustling informal trade that crosses borders into Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asia. However, decades of war have crippled infrastructure, prompting a reliance on international humanitarian aid. Refugee flows illustrate this reality: millions have sought safety in neighboring nations, while internally displaced persons crowd urban centers like Kabul, straining housing, health, and education services.
Afghan culture shines through poetry, music, and crafts that have survived invasions and regime changes. The art of carpet weaving, for instance, blends tribal motifs with global market demand, generating income for families in remote villages. Traditional instruments such as the rubab and dambura echo in wedding celebrations, while modern filmmakers use cinema to document social change. Culinary staples—naan, kebabs, and the aromatic rice dish pulao—reflect the country’s agricultural roots and trade links along the historic Silk Road. Understanding these cultural threads helps explain why Afghans maintain a strong sense of identity despite external pressures and internal upheavals.
Below you’ll find a curated collection of the most recent stories, analyses, and feature pieces that explore these topics in depth. From on‑the‑ground reports about humanitarian aid to deep‑dive profiles of Afghan entrepreneurs, the lineup offers a well‑rounded view of the challenges and opportunities shaping Afghanistan today. Stay tuned as we unpack the latest developments and what they mean for the people living in this resilient nation.
Afghanistan beat Bangladesh 2-1 in a UAE ODI series, boosting Nabi's star status and shaping both sides' Champions Trophy preparations.
