UNAMA and the Limits of Liberal Peacebuilding: Hybrid Governance, Elite Capture, and Rentier State Dynamics in Afghanistan post-2001

Abstract

This study evaluates the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan’s (UNAMA) statebuilding initiatives under the liberal peacebuilding framework, focusing on its interactions with Afghanistan’s hybrid governance structures post-2001. It explores why sustained international peacebuilding interventions often fail to establish legitimate, inclusive and stable governance despite considerable investment and prolonged period of engagement. Using an interpretivist research philosophy, the study employs a qualitative-led mixed-methods approach, incorporating thematic analysis of existing empirical literature complemented by quantitative data from the World Bank and the Fragile States Index.

Tensions arising from UNAMA’s promotion of democratic governance led to a ‘meta-conflict’ over ownership as local actors consistently resisted externally imposed models of governance. Additionally, Afghanistan’s hybrid governance arrangements facilitated elite capture, reinforcing patronage networks rather than promoting accountable institutions. Persistent dependency on international aid reinforced rentier state dynamics, adding to corruption and redirecting accountability towards foreign donors instead of Afghan citizens. International narrative framing Afghanistan as a ‘failed state’ justified technocratic interventions, which actually enabled warlords and informal elites to manipulate peacebuilding resources and consolidate their power.

This study provides important theoretical insights which challenge conventional liberal peacebuilding paradigms and practical policy recommendations for international organisations. It recommends the need to adopt flexible, locally informed strategies that prioritise internal legitimacy and accountability while reducing aid dependency. Future research should comparatively assess similar contexts, deepen empirical inquiry at grassroots levels, and identify policy mechanisms to counteract elite capture and rentierism within hybrid governance contexts.