Unveiling the Catalysts: Examining the Drivers of Forced Migration from Afghanistan in the Post-2021 Era

The fall of Kabul in August 2021 and the subsequent resurgence of Taliban rule marked a critical turning point in Afghanistan's political, social, and humanitarian landscape. This paper investigates the underlying drivers of forced migration that have emerged in the wake of this transition, contributing to one of the most significant refugee crises in recent history. Through a multi-dimensional analysis, the study identifies key push factors including political persecution, fear of reprisal, erosion of women's rights, ethnic and sectarian discrimination, economic collapse, and the dismantling of civil liberties. Drawing on international reports, and academic literature, the paper reveals how the convergence of these factors—rooted in both historical vulnerabilities and the Taliban's governance model—has compelled thousands of Afghans to flee their homeland. By unpacking the complexity of forced displacement in post-2021 Afghanistan, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of contemporary refugee dynamics and offers insights for policy frameworks on asylum, protection, and regional stability. The study uses a qualitative approach that includes content and discourse analysis. It examines secondary data, including journal articles, online news sources, and reports from international organizations.