Henriette Unbehaun

This study examines the propaganda strategies employed by the Taliban, particularly before and after their takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. By analyzing narratives, media channels, and target audiences, the research explores how the Taliban have evolved from a movement restricting media access to one that actively leverages traditional and digital platforms to spread its ideology.

Findings indicate that the Taliban strategically adapt their messaging to different audiences—using religious and nationalist rhetoric for local populations, while crafting a more moderate image for international legitimacy. Their media presence spans traditional tools (leaflets, night letters, and radio) as well as modern digital platforms (social media, websites, and multilingual publications).

Despite their advancements in communication tactics, inconsistencies in messaging, internal power struggles, and credibility gaps undermine their efforts. This study highlights the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion in authoritarian regimes, emphasizing the need for further research into its long-term societal effects and counterstrategies for mitigating its influence. This paper was written as part of a seminar at Leipzig University, where the three best contributions were selected and published.

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