The political instrumentalization of ethnicity in Afghanistan has been a persistent and complex phenomenon that has shaped the country's political landscape for decades. This article examines the political instrumentalization of ethnicity and ethnic division in Afghanistan from 2001-2021. Ethnicity has played a significant role in Afghan society, with various ethnic groups holding distinct cultural, linguistic, and historical identities. Karzai and Ghani, have utilized ethnicity as a tool to garner support, consolidate power, and advance their political agendas. The study employed Weale and Diamond’s theory of ethnic favoritism, ethnic domination, and undemocratic leaders. The methodology used in this article is based on document analysis and library research to collect secondary data and previous studies undertaken by other researchers. The result indicated that, during Karzai's presidency from 2001 to 2014, ethnic considerations played a role in his administration. Karzai himself is an ethnic Pashtun, his critics accused him of favoring Pashtuns in key positions and policies, which led to tensions with other ethnic groups, particularly the Tajiks and Hazaras. Similarly, during Ashraf Ghani's presidency from 2014 to 2021, ethnicity was a factor in Afghan politics. Ghani, an ethnic Pashtun, faced criticism from other ethnic groups, especially the Tajiks and Hazaras, who felt marginalized and excluded from power. Karzai and Ghani fueled ethnic divisions and deepened mistrust between different ethnic groups in Afghanistan. Exclusiveness, single-mindedness, and strong ethnic selections once again paved the way for the presence of the Taliban and Afghanistan witnessed an unprecedented collapse in all areas.

Authors:
Mohammad Ayub Mirdad, Airlangga University, Indonesia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Mohammad Ayub Mirdad is a lecturer in the department of international relations, faculty of social and political sciences, Airlangga Univeristy, Indonesia.

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