Retooling the Nation-Building Strategy in Afghanistan
Abstract
Following the removal of the Taliban regime in 2001, the United States embarked on a concerted nation-building effort in Afghanistan to ensure it never reverts to a terrorist sanctuary. An American-led coalition is facing significant challenges as it strives to achieve this objective, yet the recent downturn in congressional and popular support for the war in Iraq and President Bush's energetic campaign to justify his strategy there obscure the situation in the former Taliban/terrorist stronghold. While the administration frequently offers sanguine assessments of the post-conflict operations in Afghanistan, the final outcome is far from certain. This project examines three of the most prominent ways currently employed to reconstitute the "failed state" of Afghanistan: security sector reform (SSR), extension of government influence via provincial reconstruction teams, and general economic assistance. The research reveals a definite disconnect in the strategy, particularly regarding the resources (or means) that are being applied to accomplish the designated goals. Recommendations are provided to adjust the current strategy to increase the likelihood of an enduring result conducive to U.S. national interests.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 28, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA448658
Entities
People
- Vincent M. Dreyer
Organizations
- United States Army War College