Evaluating Community-Based Development in Rural Afghanistan: A Comprehensive Analysis of the National Solidarity Program and Citizens

Fayaz Gul Mazloum YAR; Karim Ullah BAIDAR

doi:10.61857/cssdev.v2i2.124

Authors

Fayaz Gul Mazloum YAR University of Nangarahr
Karim Ullah BAIDAR Nangarhar University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61857/cssdev.v2i2.124

Keywords:

Community-Based Development, National Solidarity Program, Citizens' Charter, Rural Afghanistan, Gender Inclusion, Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Taliban Impact

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of community-based development (CBD) initiatives in rural Afghanistan, focusing on the National Solidarity Program (NSP) and the Citizens' Charter National Priority Program (CCNPP). These programs, designed to empower rural communities through participatory decision-making and infrastructure development, have played a critical role in post-conflict reconstruction. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research combines quantitative data from surveys and program reports with qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups to assess the programs' impacts, challenges, and sustainability. Key findings reveal that while the NSP and CCNPP have significantly improved access to basic services and fostered community participation, they face persistent challenges such as fragmented social structures, security constraints, and gender disparities. The study highlights the importance of context-specific approaches, enhanced local governance capacities, and greater gender inclusion to ensure equitable and sustainable outcomes. Additionally, the study addresses the implications of recent political changes, including the Taliban's return to power, on the future of CBD initiatives in Afghanistan. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the NSP and CCNPP, this research contributes to the broader understanding of CBD in conflict-affected settings and offers actionable recommendations for policymakers and development practitioners. The findings underscore the need for adaptive strategies that address Afghanistan's unique socio-political dynamics, ensuring that future CBD programs are more inclusive, resilient, and effective.

References

Afghanistan Analysts Network. (2019). Is the Citizens' Charter the right vehicle for reconciliation? The risks of monetising peace. Retrieved from https://www.afghanistan-analysts.org

Akseer, T., Wazir, A., & Saleem, H. (2022). Challenges in post-conflict development: Lessons from Afghanistan. Journal of Development Studies, 58(4), 567–590. https://doi.org/10.1080/00220388.2021.2013467

Al-Saadi, Y. (2021). Community-driven development in conflict-affected states: Lessons from Iraq and Yemen. Journal of Peacebuilding & Development, 16(2), 123–140. https://doi.org/10.1177/15423166211012345

Bardhan, P. (2002). Decentralization of governance and development. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 16(4), 185–205. https://doi.org/10.1257/089533002320951037

Beath, A., Christia, F., & Enikolopov, R. (2017). The National Solidarity Program: Assessing its impact in Afghanistan. World Development, 90, 105–122. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.worlddev.2016.09.001

Bhatia, J., & Goodhand, J. (2020). Community-driven development in Afghanistan. Third World Quarterly, 41(6), 1015–1035. https://doi.org/10.1080/01436597.2020.1743991

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa

Citizens' Charter National Priority Program (CCNPP). (2021). Progress report 2016–2021. Retrieved from https://www.ccnpp.org

Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed.). Sage Publications.

Katz, D. J. (2017). Community-based development in rural Afghanistan. United States Institute of Peace. Retrieved from https://www.usip.org

Krippendorff, K. (2018). Content analysis: An introduction to its methodology (4th ed.). Sage Publications.

Mansuri, G., & Rao, V. (2012). Localizing development: Does participation work? World Bank Publications. https://doi.org/10.1596/978-0-8213-8256-3

Ortiz, C. (2020). Peacebuilding through community development: Lessons from Colombia. Conflict, Security & Development, 20(3), 321–342. https://doi.org/10.1080/14678802.2020.1760821

Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). (2023). Quarterly Report to the United States Congress. Retrieved from https://www.sigar.mil

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2021). Afghanistan: Rural development overview. Retrieved from https://www.undp.org

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2021). Local governance and service delivery in fragile states: Lessons from South Sudan and Syria. Retrieved from https://www.undp.org

Wafa, N., & Yar, F. G. M. (2024). Geopolitical Influence of Afghanistan’s Neighbors on the Country's Domestic and Foreign Policies. Devotion: Journal of Research and Community Service, 5(12), 1524-1537.

World Bank. (2020). Community-driven development in conflict-affected countries: A comparative analysis. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org

World Bank. (2021). Citizens' Charter Afghanistan Project overview. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org

Yar, F. G. M., & Rahmani, M. (2024). Innovative Strategies for Empowering Rural Communities: International Experiences and Applications in Afghanistan. Enrichment: Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, 2(9).