Quarterly Journal of Political
Research in Islamic World

 Aim: This study examines the impact of political instability on the failure of developmental programs in Afghanistan during the period 1298–1400 AH. The main research question is “What is the impact of political instability on the failure of developmental programs in Afghanistan during the period 1298–1400 AH?” The present study uses a theoretical framework combining David Saunders’ political instability and Adrian Leftwich’s developmental states.
Methodology: This study adopts an inductive descriptive type to explain the relationship between political instability and development programs and their actions in Afghanistan, with the role of the government and society. Also, the data is analyzed qualitatively. The data were selected through a systematic search of library resources and reports.
Findings: Political instability, with an average of one regime change every eight years, has failed about 80 to 90 percent of development programs. This instability has led to stalled industrialization, increased poverty, livelihood insecurity, and weakened political legitimacy. Mineral resources and small businesses, especially by women, offer prospects for development.
Conclusion: Sustainable development in Afghanistan requires structural reforms such as the formation of inclusive ethnic institutions, reducing external dependence, anti-bias education, and strengthening international diplomacy. Political instability has perpetuated the cycle of development failure through structural inequality, government pressures, and lack of legitimacy.