Recognition of the Taliban: Legal and Political Aspects

Abstract: This article examines the international community's approaches toward the Taliban government in Afghanistan following their rise to power in 2021. The author analyzes the issue of recognition through the lens of international law, contrasting constitutive and declaratory theories, as well as the Tobar and Estrada doctrines. The paper highlights the divergence between the cautious stance of Western nations and the pragmatic engagement strategy adopted by regional powers. It specifically evaluates Russia’s diplomatic moves toward recognition, the potential for Afghanistan’s integration into regional transport networks, and the complex dilemmas facing the UN and the global community regarding the legitimization of the new authorities in Kabul.

Keywords: Taliban, Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, international law, de jure recognition, de facto recognition, Estrada doctrine, regional stability, diplomatic relations.