Four years after reclaiming power in Afghanistan, the Taliban have established a state that extends far beyond traditional authoritarianism. While much global discourse frames the Taliban regime through the lens of religious fundamentalism or terrorist affiliations, a more precise conceptual framework is needed to understand the comprehensive nature of power and authority within the Taliban governance.

The Taliban regime has institutionalized a singular interpretation of Islamic governance that brooks no alternatives. Unlike authoritarian systems that might allow ideological diversity in non-political spheres, the Taliban's approach represents a total ideological project that encompasses religion, culture, education, and daily life.

Objectives:

1. Examine the nature of power and authority under the Taliban regime and the mechanisms through which the regime exercises control
2. Discuss evolving patterns of governance of the Taliban in the last four years, including changes in institutional development
3. Analyze the way the Taliban regime constructs and maintains its legitimacy through the discursive practices, religious doctrine, and governance outcomes
4. Explore the balance of power amongst key actors, factions, and institutions under the Taliban
5. Discuss the pattern of civil resistance and people's power against the Taliban
6. Evaluate how international sanctions, isolation, and geopolitical dynamics create both constraints and opportunities for the Taliban