Afghanistan’s governance structure is showing signs of institutional fragility following mass layoffs across key sectors. In April 2025, Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada ordered a 20% reduction in staff within the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, and General Directorate of Intelligence. Over 90,000 education workers were also dismissed under the same directive.
Officials cited financial constraints. However, the sudden move sparked unrest. Many dismissed employees claimed they received no notice, unpaid wages, and no formal criteria for removal. The lack of clarity has led to allegations of ethnic bias and internal rivalries within the ranks of the Islamic Emirate.
Security Vacuums Widen Along Borders
As a result of the downsizing, border security has weakened. Areas once patrolled regularly are now left exposed. Pakistan, sharing a long and porous border with Afghanistan, has raised concerns over potential infiltration by militant groups. Security analysts warn that the situation may create space for actors like ISIS-K and India-backed proxies to exploit unrest.
Disgruntled former fighters and officers, particularly from non-Pashtun backgrounds, are reportedly regrouping. In provinces like Badakhshan and Panjshir, anti-Taliban sentiment is rising. The dismissals have inflamed old grievances, undermining any claims of ethnic inclusion made by the Taliban.
Calls for Inclusive Political Settlement Grow
Amid the internal turbulence, diplomatic calls for a more inclusive political setup are growing louder. Observers argue that the Taliban’s unilateral decisions are unsustainable. “If the current system continues to exclude key segments of Afghan society, more instability will follow,” said one Kabul-based analyst.
Pakistan, already grappling with cross-border threats, sees the fallout as a direct national security risk. Islamabad has urged the interim Afghan government to ensure stability and avoid alienating its own ranks.
Furthermore, humanitarian organizations report a spike in civilian displacement due to administrative chaos and security lapses. Without a functioning state apparatus, aid delivery is also being affected.
In the long run, the Taliban’s failure to maintain institutional unity, fairness, and operational capacity may backfire. The international community, while cautious in engagement, continues to monitor developments closely.
Ultimately, the April layoffs have become a test of governance for the Islamic Emirate — and a glaring reminder of Afghanistan’s deepening institutional fragility.
