Economic Growth Exists, but Bold Reforms Are Still Needed

The World Bank’s latest report, titled Afghanistan Development Update, indicates that Afghanistan’s economy is on a growth trajectory for the second consecutive year. According to the report, low inflation and increased government revenues have been the key factors enabling this economic momentum. The World Bank projects that Afghanistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will grow by 3.4 percent in 2025, an increase compared to the 2.5 percent growth recorded in 2024. While these figures are encouraging, they still do not present a complete or reassuring picture of the country’s long-term economic future.
The report explains that one of the main drivers behind this growth has been the return of more than two million migrants from Iran and Pakistan, which has increased demand and stimulated activity in the services and industrial sectors. However, this situation also highlights that the economy remains largely consumption-driven and has yet to be built on sustainable foundations. At the same time, the World Bank stresses that rapid population growth, a widening trade deficit, and persistent poverty continue to place serious pressure on Afghanistan’s economic stability.
In this context, if the Afghan government intends to transform this short-term growth into sustainable development, it must take further practical and fundamental steps. Controlling inflation and increasing revenues alone are not sufficient. Improving people’s living standards requires the creation of broad employment opportunities, strengthening of the productive economy, and the provision of a clear, transparent, and secure environment for investment. A strong economy can only emerge through the development of human capital, a goal that is unattainable without guaranteeing education for all, particularly for girls.
Girls represent half of society’s potential, and denying them education is a major obstacle to economic progress. If Afghanistan seeks to overcome poverty, deprivation, and international isolation, it must ensure that the doors of education remain open to everyone. Constructive engagement with the international community is not achieved through political slogans, but through concrete actions, social stability, and an understanding of global concerns.
Moreover, national unity must remain a central pillar of government policy. Economic growth becomes sustainable only when society as a whole feels included and trust in a shared future is strengthened. At the same time, improving relations with the world, expanding regional and international economic cooperation, and fostering an atmosphere of trust can gradually help Afghanistan emerge from its state of isolation.
The World Bank’s report should be viewed not merely as news, but as an opportunity. It sends a clear message to the Afghan government that a path toward progress exists. However, this potential can only be realized if reforms are pursued seriously, the fundamental needs of the people are addressed, and Afghanistan moves toward becoming a modern, open, and responsible state. Otherwise, the current economic growth will remain temporary and will fail to bring tangible improvements to the daily lives of the people.