Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
Since retaking power in August 2021, the Taliban have shown no tolerance for political opposition. Dissidents, activists, and former government officials who attempt to criticise or organise against Taliban rule are met with threats, imprisonment, or disappearance. 

The Taliban’s approach eliminates political pluralism and cements a climate of fear, leaving Afghans with no legal or democratic avenues for opposition. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Afghanistan has a long history of fragile governance and conflict, with power often centralised and dissent brutally suppressed. The U.S.-backed Afghan Republic allowed limited multiparty participation, but systemic corruption weakened public trust. 

With the collapse of the Republic, the Taliban reinstated their authoritarian system, rejecting democratic institutions and sidelining civil society. Political parties were effectively dissolved, and opposition leaders were forced into exile or silence. 

This return to one-party dominance mirrors the Taliban’s earlier rule in the 1990s. 

Page 3 — Methods of Crushing Opposition 
The Taliban employ multiple tactics to crush political opposition: 

- Arrests and disappearances: Former officials, activists, and critics are detained or go missing. 
- Violence: Public protests are violently dispersed, often with gunfire. 
- Censorship: Media outlets are banned from covering dissenting views. 
- Intimidation: Families of political opponents are harassed to discourage resistance. 
- Exile: Opposition figures are forced to flee abroad under threat of persecution. 

These methods ensure the Taliban maintain uncontested control. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Afghans and Society 
The absence of political opposition has devastating consequences. Citizens are left powerless, unable to influence governance or hold leaders accountable. Civil society organisations, once a cornerstone of progress, are dismantled or co-opted. 

Fear of retaliation stifles free speech, while young Afghans lose faith in political participation altogether. Internationally, Afghanistan’s legitimacy suffers, with the Taliban viewed as an authoritarian regime unwilling to engage in inclusive governance. 

The silencing of opposition also deepens instability, as frustration grows among marginalised groups. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Restoring political pluralism in Afghanistan will require both internal resilience and international support. 

Key steps include: 
- Guaranteeing political rights: allow parties and opposition figures to operate freely. 
- Protecting dissent: end arrests and intimidation of critics. 
- Civil society empowerment: rebuild independent organisations that amplify citizens’ voices. 
- International pressure: condition recognition and aid on respect for political freedoms. 
- Inclusive dialogue: support reconciliation between diverse Afghan groups for sustainable peace. 

Until such reforms are made, political opposition in Afghanistan will remain crushed under Taliban authority, depriving Afghans of democratic rights and reinforcing authoritarian rule.