You frequently hear the narrative that the US invasion of
Afghanistan was of no benefit to the country, or the situation reverted to
Taliban-era right after the majority of US soldiers left the country.
The data suggests otherwise. In the aftermath of the US
invasion, Afghanistan's economy has improved superbly. In fact, in terms
of the ultimate indicator of welfare i.e. the real GDP per capita,
Afghanistan has performed pointedly better than most countries in the region;
only Turkey has developed at a faster rate. Afaghinstan's GDP per capita
has increased by 71% between 2002 and 2018, while the number is 33% for Iran, 24% for Saudi Arabia, and -32%(!) for United Arab Emirates. Nevertheless, the UAE as well as Qatar and Bahrain who are also struggling, have such a high GDP per capita that other countries will not reach to their levels in the foreseeable future.
Iraq also has done better that its powerful neighbor, Iran. However, the increase in Iraq's output must be a direct result of lifting sanctions after the overthrow of Saddam's regime.
Iraq also has done better that its powerful neighbor, Iran. However, the increase in Iraq's output must be a direct result of lifting sanctions after the overthrow of Saddam's regime.
This is, of course, not to justify military interventions, but
an invitation to adhere to rigorous data, rather than wishful narratives. The
Taliban and their occasional bombings are making a lot of fuss, but they are
just some mummy’s belonging to the past. Afghan people have found their way.
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| Source: World Bank. The GDP per capita for Iran in 2018 is my estimation. |
