Mining in Afghanistan: a pathway for development and modernization

Abstract

Afghanistan, a nation battered after three decades of war and conflict, has a new opportunity to reset the calculus on its internal and regional insecurities through the establishment of a mineral mining economy. Following the invasion of Afghanistan by coalition forces in the fall of 2001, billions of dollars of foreign aid have been funneled into the country. Critics argue that this assistance has not achieved significant, sustainable steps towards the Afghan society despite the good intentions of its donors. The Afghanistan National Development Strategy was created in 2008 as the nation's premier roadmap for initiatives that propel growth and development as a result of establishing a thriving mining sector. To what extent will mining play a role in securing Afghanistan's future? Does Afghanistan have a role to play in regional geopolitics through its vast mineral resources? This study aims to discuss the potential of non-fuel mineral mining in the Afghan state and will assess the extent to which modernization theory can be applied to ensure that further advancements are realized in political stability, human capital, and infrastructure development. These advancements would be achieved specifically through revenues, foreign direct investment in the mining sector, and enhanced security. The study concludes that in order for mineral mining in Afghanistan to take hold, a level of security must be attained in the development of institutions, engagement with the global market economy, expanding its regional ties, infrastructure development, and further developing its mineral economy.