Survey: Reasons Behind Delays or Halts in Reconstruction Projects in Central Afghanistan
DID Press conducted an online survey asking its audience: “Why are reconstruction projects in central Afghanistan being delayed or halted?”
This survey received broad participation and its findings reflect the public perception of the challenges facing reconstruction efforts in the country’s central regions.
Survey findings
- Ethnic Discrimination and Structural Marginalization
Over half of the respondents (50%) cited ethnic discrimination and unfair resource allocation structures as the primary reasons for delays or stoppages in reconstruction projects in central areas. This figure highlights the deep public concern over the lack of justice in equitable development among Afghanistan’s various ethnic groups and regions. - Negligence by International Bodies and Aid Diversion
33% of participants believe that a major contributing factor is the lack of focus and commitment by international institutions toward fair reconstruction, coupled with the diversion of international aid from its intended purpose. This perspective highlights public dissatisfaction with the international community’s performance regarding Afghanistan’s reconstruction. - Lack of Funding and Administrative Corruption
Only 17% of respondents attributed the delays primarily to financial issues and administrative corruption. While corruption and funding gaps—particularly during the Republic era—were often considered key obstacles in other regions of the country, in central Afghanistan, discrimination and negligence appear to overshadow these concerns.
Conclusion
The survey results reveal that the people of central Afghanistan attribute the root causes of reconstruction challenges not to financial or logistical issues, but to systemic discrimination, unjust structures, and the lack of attention from international actors.
If the caretaker government and the international community are serious about achieving sustainable and inclusive development, they must pay special attention to the demands of these regions and address historical inequalities.