The Taliban has established 39 diplomatic missions worldwide, despite lacking official recognition from the international community.
At a Glance
- The Taliban no longer recognize Afghanistan’s diplomatic missions from the former government.
- Passports, visas, and other documents from the previous administration are not valid.
- The Taliban aim to take control of Afghanistan’s embassies and consulates globally.
- Afghanistan’s UN seat is still held by the former government led by Ashraf Ghani.
Taliban Establishes Diplomatic Presence Globally Without Official Recognition
The Taliban has taken control of 39 diplomatic missions across the globe, despite not being recognized as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. This development is a significant challenge to the Biden administration’s efforts to marginalize the group. Additionally, countries such as China, the UAE, and Iran have opened channels for dialogue with the Taliban administration. Reports indicate many other nations are assessing their diplomatic stance, revealing a complex international response.
Since ascending to power in August 2021, the Taliban have faced consistent allegations of human rights violations, particularly against women. These restrictions on freedoms, including stopping girls’ education beyond the sixth grade and banning women from many jobs and public spaces, are seen as significant barriers to gaining international legitimacy. The Taliban claims their policies are in line with their interpretation of Islamic law, but this stance contributes to the lack of formal recognition.
Taliban says it is now in control of 39 embassies around the world. "At some missions, diplomats appointed under the previous government work with Taliban authorities." India is probably under this bracket. https://t.co/eL2kdHHUE9
— Kabir Taneja (@KabirTaneja) September 19, 2024
Challenges with Diplomatic Recognition
The Taliban’s move to establish diplomatic missions comes amid controversy and pushback. The group no longer recognizes Afghanistan’s embassies set up by the former Western-backed government and has invalidated documents issued by these missions. This decision has caused frustration among Afghan nationals abroad who now face increased financial burdens and legal issues.
Despite controlling nearly 40 diplomatic missions, the Taliban administration remains unrecognized by any international government. Informal ties with countries such as Russia, Iran, and Pakistan exist, but official recognition is missing mainly due to their human rights record. Afghanistan’s seat at the United Nations is still occupied by the former government led by Ashraf Ghani. The Taliban are pushing to claim this seat but face significant opposition.
Impact on Afghan Nationals Abroad
Afghan nationals living abroad face various challenges due to the Taliban’s diplomatic maneuvers. Notably, documents such as passports and visas issued by former Afghan diplomats are no longer recognized. The Taliban’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that people must approach embassies and consulates under Taliban control for consular services, potentially increasing legal uncertainties and financial stress individuals face.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted a statement on X, stating that “documents issued by missions in London, Berlin, Belgium, Bonn, Switzerland, Austria, France, Italy, Greece, Poland, Australia, Sweden, Canada and Norway are no longer accepted and the ministry ‘bears no responsibility’ for those documents.”
The German government, among others, is currently assessing the impact of the Taliban’s claim on embassies worldwide. With some countries still engaging in dialogue, the situation remains fluid. As the Taliban continue to seek formal recognition, the international community’s response will significantly shape Afghanistan’s geopolitical and humanitarian future.
