Struggling Afghan farmers, as per an analysis, due to the enforced prohibition on opium production
The Islamic State's crackdown on drug farming in Afghanistan is causing major financial difficulties for millions of people in the country, as per a report by Crisis Group. This report predicts an uncertain future for the drug prohibition, suggesting that it could fail due to economic hardships, the report notes. Although the Taliban are determined to implement the ban, they may struggle under the strain of financial struggles, the report suggests.
Since the Taliban introduced a ban in 2022, as reported by the United Nations from November last year, opium cultivation has reduced by 95%. The Islamic State's actions include arresting drug users, destroying crops, and closing locations where drugs are sold, according to Crisis Group.
However, the drug ban has exacerbated financial crises in rural areas, which are already battling severe economic difficulties and climate changes.
Poppy cultivation is particularly lucrative in the war-torn and poverty-stricken country, providing a lifeline for many farmers. Women, who have limited job prospects outside of agriculture under the Islamic State, are hit hardest, the report explains.
Without international assistance, Afghanistan lacks the resources to develop alternative farming methods and create employment opportunities in other sectors, according to Crisis Group's analysis. Meanwhile, it is suggested that the Taliban consider a gradual ban on poppy cultivation, while keeping the poorest farmers in mind.
"As long as the Afghan population lack alternative income sources, the risk of significant displacement and increased immigration will remain high," emphasizes Crisis Group analyst Ibraheem Bahiss.
Owing to the Taliban's opium prohibition, which was enforced in 2022 and has decreased opium cultivation by 95%, as reported by the United Nations, the rural areas in Afghanistan are facing further financial crises. The absence of international aid and alternative farming methods, as suggested by Crisis Group, may lead to a reconsideration of a gradual opium prohibition, taking into account the economic challenges faced by the poorest farmers.
