Ethnic nationalism in Afghanistan: Examining the impact of ethnicity on conflict and nation-building process

ABSTRACT This master's thesis, titled "Ethnic Nationalism in Afghanistan: Examining the Impact of Ethnicity on Conflict and Nation-Building Process," explores the intricate relationship between nationalism and ethnic identity in Afghanistan, a country known for its ethnic diversity. The study starts with a summary of nationalism's history, including its development and the key occurrences that influenced Afghan society. It draws attention to the rise of ethnic nationalism in the midst of continuing hostilities and the desire for a stable administration, especially after the Taliban rule collapsed. The thesis investigates how ethnic affiliations impact political dynamics, social cohesiveness, and the process of nation-building in Afghanistan by thoroughly analyzing a variety of ethnic groupings. It uses qualitative techniques, such as case studies and interviews, to get opinions from important community leaders and stakeholders. The results show that ethnic nationalism has two functions: it can increase tensions and conflicts between various ethnic groups while also giving marginalized populations a sense of identity and belonging. In the end, this study emphasizes how important it is to acknowledge and take into account ethnic variety when developing policies meant to advance peace and stability in Afghanistan. In order to create a more cohesive and resilient society, it advocates for an inclusive approach to nation-building that honors and incorporates the diverse range of Afghan ethnic identities. Keywords: Afghanistan, ethnicity, ethnic nationalism, the Pashtuns, ethnic conflict, nation-building, Mujahideen, Durand line.