Readers Without Borders Discussion on The Return of the Taliban
Readers Without Borders will host an upcoming virtual event featuring Dr. Hassan Abbas, author of The Return of the Taliban, for a timely discussion on Afghanistan’s political future and the Taliban’s return to power.
Following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban rapidly re-established control, raising urgent questions about regional stability, humanitarian conditions, and international engagement. In this book, Abbas explores how the Taliban evolved across three major phases: their initial rise in the 1990s (Taliban 1.0), their insurgency years (Taliban 2.0), and their current role as governing authorities (Taliban 3.0).
Drawing on field research, interviews, and firsthand experience, Abbas examines internal rivalries, ideological shifts, and regional dynamics shaping the Taliban today. He argues for a strategy of measured engagement—emphasizing that engagement does not mean endorsement, but may be necessary to prevent deeper humanitarian collapse and extremist expansion.
The event will include Abbas joining live to discuss his findings and address questions on conflict resolution, women’s rights, humanitarian principles, and long-term security challenges.
Event Details
Topic: The Return of the Taliban — Discussion with Dr. Hassan Abbas
Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM (Eastern Time)
Format: Zoom Meeting
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87016547920?pwd=XCrsIrMwWYGTNmc9I9LQIhecZDOtfU.1
Meeting ID: 870 1654 7920
Passcode: 426267
About the Author
Dr. Hassan Abbas is a Distinguished Professor of International Relations at the Near East South Asia (NESA) Center for Strategic Studies, National Defense University in Washington, D.C. He has previously taught at Harvard and Columbia Universities and has written extensively on South and Central Asian politics, Islam, and security.
Organizer
Ambereen Mirza
mirza.ambereen@gmail.com