This edited volume provides a multidisciplinary analysis of the failure of democratic state building in Afghanistan. Encompassing insights from diverse perspectives and different theoretical viewpoints—most importantly, those of Afghan nationals—the chapters address complex issues, including the extent of global hegemonic power, the efficacy of nation-building strategies, the clash between modernization and cultural legacies, and the intricate task of establishing enduring institutions amid pervasive clientelist networks. The volume is divided into sections addressing a key aspect of the situation: state institutions and society; insecurity and corruption; social and economic development; women’s rights. Drawing crucial lessons from a turbulent past to inform and guide future endeavors towards a stable, prosperous Afghanistan, this volume will be of interest to researchers and students of Middle East politics, peace and conflict studies, security studies, development, history, and sociology.

Francisco Berenguer López holds a PhD in International Security from the National University of Distance Education (UNED) (Spain). He holds diplomas in International Crisis Management and Advanced Studies in International Security, both from UNED, and a General Staff diploma from the Spanish Army. He was Chief of Lessons and Key Leaders Training at the ISAF General Command in Kabul and served as Defense Attaché for Afghanistan and Pakistan.  
Juan Ignacio Castien Maestro is Professor in the Department of Social Anthropology and Social Psychology at the Complutense University of Madrid (Spain). His research focuses on sociological theory, international migration, national identity, and social change in Islamic societies.