An Overview of Afghanistan’s Economic Situation and the Main Vectors of Its Underdevelopment

The primary objective of this study is to provide an overview of Afghanistan’s socioeconomic situation and examine key factors associated with its economic underdevelopment. The study adopts a qualitative, literature-based approach, using secondary sources analysed through qualitative content analysis. The findings highlight the continuing challenges associated with decades of conflict, political instability, and dependence on foreign aid. Nine major factors are identified: poverty and unemployment, political instability and conflict, agricultural dependence, corruption and informality, foreign aid dependency, weak infrastructure, geographical constraints and natural resource endowments, limited human development, and international isolation. Sanctions, financial constraints, and the emigration of skilled professionals also feature among the challenges facing Afghanistan since 2021. The study contributes an integrated overview of these interconnected factors, offering insights for policymakers and identifying areas for further empirical research.