Analysing the role of Religion inAfghan and International newsmedia coverage prior to theTaliban's Resurgence

Introduction This study explores the role of religion in Afghan and international news media coverageduring the lead-up to the Taliban's resurgence and takeover of Kabul in August 2021.Through an analysis of approximately one thousand news articles using a grounded theoryapproach, the research seeks to understand how religion was represented, framed, anddiscussed. The findings illuminate the complex interplay between religion, media, andconflict. Additionally, they enrich the wider academic discourse on the topic, offering deeperinsights and expanding the body of knowledge in this area. The research questions focused onthe portrayal of religion in media, the key religious actors and institutions, the religiousideologies and beliefs driving actions, and the consequences of religious divisions andalliances on the conflict. Recognizing the role of media in shaping societal discourse, thisstudy aims to contribute to a more informed public conversation about religion's role inconflict zones like Afghanistan. Literature ReviewThis chapter offers a review of the existing literature pertaining to the subject matter of thestudy, primarily drawing on grounded theory methodology. The first section reviews conflicttheory, detailing its assumptions and key tenets, and providing examples of its practicalapplications like the MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements. A critical examination ofthe theory is also provided, highlighting its limitations.The second section explores Conflict and Political Islam theories, discussing the widespectrum of movements, ideologies, and state policies that fall under its purview. The chapterthen explores into media representation in the context of religion, focusing on the changinglandscape of Afghan media since the fall of the Taliban in 2001.The chapter continues to explore the role of media in shaping public opinion, recognizing theadvancements in Afghanistan's media landscape as well as its constraints. Finally, gaps inexisting literature are identified, including inherent limitations and potential biases inanalysing news media coverage. Grounded Theory Methodology This study employed grounded theory for data analysis and theory development based on thefindings. A sampling approach was used initially to gather diverse media articles on religiousdiscourse, particularly Islam and Conflict based research. As themes emerged, theoreticalsampling was applied to select new articles that supported the evolving framework untiltheoretical saturation was reached.The study conducted an analysis similar to grounded theory, involving coding, categorization,and grouping based on research questions. The primary goal was to identify data patterns,contributing to a theoretical framework and providing insights for future research.Dataset and Methodology OverviewThis chapter applies grounded theory to a dataset of Afghanistan media articles tocomprehend complex sociopolitical dynamics. The diverse dataset fills knowledge gaps,allowing for the creation of an evidence-based theory. Findings and Analysis This chapter explores the analysis of over thousand media articles, shedding light on thepatterns and categories within religious discourse. Using the grounded theory approach, thechapter unfolds through initial data familiarization, transcription, and rigorous data coding,including open, axial, and selective coding. The outcome is a comprehensive understandingof the religious discourse and its implications on societal norms and behaviours.The chapter then uncovers and explores patterns in religious discourse, specifically focusingon Afghan and international news media coverage on the role of religion leading up to theTaliban's return to power. Three main categories emerge: the religious identity of the Taliban,the role of religion in peace talks, and the religious conflict and violence in Afghanistan andPakistan. The analysis provides valuable insights into the dynamics of religious communities,the intricacies of peace negotiations, and the influence of religious discourse in shapingsocietal beliefs and values. Conclusion Chapter 7 concludes the study by highlighting the potential of the Religion and ConflictOutcomes Theory as an analytical tool for understanding the role of religion in conflicts,using Afghanistan and the resurgence of the Taliban as a case study. The theory, whiledeveloped specifically for the Afghan context, has broader applicability to other religiouslyinfluenced conflicts, such as those involving ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The chapter emphasizesthe theory's contribution to knowledge, particularly in enabling policymakers, researchers,and practitioners to understand religious influences within conflicts, which can informpeacebuilding and conflict resolution strategies.Furthermore, practical implications of the theory are discussed, stressing the need for amultidimensional approach to crises. The study highlights the importance of early warningsystems, the role of UN and other stakeholders in proactive measures, and the need foremergency assistance in crisis situations. It emphasizes the significance of collaborationamong international organizations, governments, local actors, and civil society in crisisresponse, and the need for continuous monitoring and adaptation to address evolvingchallenges