Afghanistan, the forgotten project

The country must also resist the temptation to take steps backward in terms of civil rights.  The U.S. and its allies should remind them of the democratic progresses they have made and what they would lose if they ignore them.  Human rights groups raised alarms when rumors of a government decree setting media restrictions were given out to prominent newspapers and television stations.  Some politicians justify curbs on press freedom on the basis of the “negative publicity” they give out, but in a free society, it is important to show both the successes and shortcomings of the government.  Furthermore, in a rebuilding society, many people are already aware of the problems facing the country and this effort to limit freedom will only decrease the people’s confidence in the government by raising suspicions about their integrity.

These recommendations address only a small portion of the interconnecting and complex issues that are happening in Afghanistan.  These proposals are also difficult options to carry out and take time to work.  The Bush administration must not be overly optimistic and let public relations dictate their policy plans.  They must implement the correct policies, even if they are not popular.  Courage is not only needed on the battlefield, but also in the political arena.  Afghanistan’s success is critical to U.S. strategy, but it will take unpopular moves and patience.  The current president and future ones must recognize this harsh reality and not sacrifice long-term victories for today’s poll numbers.

Conclusion

The London Conference was seen as a symbol of the international commitment to Afghanistan.  Now, the world must be willing to live up to their promises.  They must not simply pour aid into the country and consider the matter resolved.  Afghanistan is still confronting a whole bevy of challenges that require the full attention of the international community.  It has the potential to become an active member of the world community that could bring some semblance of stability to a volatile region.  For that reason alone, America and its allies must push on in its efforts in Afghanistan.

The country has seen tremendous success over the past five years.  Already Afghanistan has laid the foundation for a successful future with the establishment of its three government branches through democratic and legitimate means.  People are receiving aid to live better lives.  The police and army are being resurrected with better training.  The infrastructure and economy are being rebuilt.  Afghanistan is finally able to welcome in the 21^st century.

Nonetheless, there are still problems.  Rebuilding from decades of warfare and despotic rule will take time.  Anyone hoping for overnight success is deluding themselves.  Extremists who were in power will not surrender so easily; nor will ideological murderers.  The situation is made more difficult because of Afghanistan’s poor conditions in 2001 (a crumbling infrastructure, a weak economy and barely any sign of 21^st century technology).  An uneducated and poverty-stricken population is not helpful, either.  Yet, all of these problems can be defeated with the right policies and the determination to stay with them even if there is a setback.

Only intense dedication and patience will be able to defeat the roadblocks.  Governments, such as the United States must resist the calls of those that accept defeat too quickly and stand with Afghanistan.  Setbacks must be met with greater resolve, not retreat.  The Afghan people have shown their resilience and determination after suffering through three decades of warfare that has consumed their nation.  They have earned the unwavering support of the rest of the world.  Humanity should not abandon them at such a critical hour.