Theoretical Frameworks: Comprehensive Models of State-Nation Building in Afghanistan During the Republican Era and the Challenges and Obstacles They Encountered

Özet

This study examines the theoretical frameworks and comprehensive models of state-nation building (SNB) in Afghanistan during the Republican era, and identifies the challenges and obstacles faced by the state-nation element. The research employs a qualitative approach based on document analysis, with data collected from library sources and online databases. The findings indicate that the model implemented, particularly during the period of U.S. intervention, was top-down and externally driven, relying on a mechanical transfer of Western values and institutions. By disregarding the historical, cultural, ethnic, and religious structures of Afghan society, this approach not only failed to foster a shared national identity but also deepened social and ethnic divisions and weakened the legitimacy of the central state. Consequently, the resulting state became dependent on external support rather than reflecting the collective will of society, and it lacked strong social foundations. The study emphasizes that, for successful SNB, nation-building (NB) must precede state-building (SB) and must be grounded in the local, cultural, and social capacities of Afghan society; the formation of a common identity, social trust, and internal consensus is essential to the success of this process.