Making Money in the Mayhem: Funding Taliban Insurrection in the Tribal Areas of Pakistan

Abstract

The insurrection in Pakistan's tribal areas has been unexpectedly robust, lethal, and resilient, which has surprised many in Pakistan and the Western world. The focus of the violence emanating from this region is not confined to Afghanistan or Pakistan alone, but spans the entire world, especially Europe and North America. A number of external actors like Al Qaeda and its associates are exploiting the prevailing lawlessness in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) for sanctuary and a base for their logistical, training, and operational purposes, while the local Taliban reap rich financial rewards in the mayhem.