Human Rights Violations, Bellicosity and Conflicts in a War-Torn Country: Afghanistan

Afghanistan has experienced over four decades of war, with violence taking lives almost every day. The psychological impact has been severe and long-term across society.

The article reports that many Afghans face ongoing stress due to war, while large numbers suffer diagnosable conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

It also cites prior reporting that depression rates in Afghanistan are alarmingly high, with a major share of the population affected by depressive symptoms.

Alongside mental health pressure, bellicosity, violence, and human rights violations have become visible in everyday social interactions. Some people react aggressively, while others continue to seek rights and justice.

Because formal local data on the roots of bellicosity remains limited, Azimi Psychology Centre (APC) conducted theoretical and practical research focused on three dimensions: human rights violations, bellicosity, and conflicts.

The study connected psychology with political science, law, and criminal psychology to better explain why disputes, aggression, and social conflict emerge in a war-affected environment.

A key argument is that human action can be shaped by complex biological and emotional triggers, including subconscious anxiety, fear, and hidden anger, all of which may push behavior toward aggression.

The research questionnaire was shared online across Afghanistan with participants from diverse backgrounds and age groups.

Participants were mainly young adults: ages 18-25 formed the largest group (54.5%), followed by ages 26-30 (41.4%) and ages 31-40 (4.0%).

Gender participation was almost balanced, with women at 51.5% and men at 48.5%. Participants also represented different education levels and employment conditions.

Findings indicate that many respondents view conflict as linked to rights-claiming behavior, while also believing that human beings are naturally peaceful unless pushed by pressure, injustice, or unmet needs.

Most respondents rejected the idea that conflict behavior is inherited, but supported the view that personality type and social conditions strongly influence violent behavior.

The study concludes that conflict and pugnacity remain widespread under prolonged war conditions, while a majority of people still appeal for human rights and social fairness.

Published in South Asia Journal (April 11, 2021).

Source: https://southasiajournal.net/human-rights-violations-bellicosity-and-conflicts-in-a-war-torn-country-afghanistan