Brookings: Topics - Afghanistan

Vision for Victory in Afghanistan - Part II

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On a recent weeklong visit to Afghanistan sponsored by the U.S. military, Michael O'Hanlon met with Afghan and U.S. officials whose assessments partially countered the current general outlook on the country's status and future. O'Hanlon's visit left him with guarded optimism about U.S. prospects for creating a safe and stable Afghanistan.

Vision for Victory in Afghanistan - Part I

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Afghanistan Victory Crucial for President Obama

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with IBA News, Bruce Riedel discusses President Barack Obama's policy in Afghanistan, emphasizing that victory against Al Qaeda and the Taliban is crucial not only for the stability of Afghanistan itself, but also for Pakistan and the entire Islamic world.

Corruption Index Today, Election Tomorrow, Aid Revamp the Day After?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In reaction to news of brazen corruption in Afghanistan and the release of the new Corruption Perceptions Index, Daniel Kaufmann asks tough questions about the relationship between aid and corruption and suggests improvements in how development aid effectiveness is reviewed.

Police Reform a Reason for Hope in Afghanistan

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lost in the ongoing Afghanistan debate is a promising effort to foster reform in building the Afghan police force, writes Michael O'Hanlon. Just back from a trip to the country, O'Hanlon notes several areas in which new efforts are encouraging and draws on lessons learned from reforms that occurred coincident with the 2007 surge in Iraq.

Election Boycotts Don't Work

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Matthew Frankel compares Abdullah Abdullah's withdrawal from Afghanistan's runoff election to other electoral boycotts over the years. Based on independent research of 100 boycotts since 1990, Frankel concludes that they rarely work and often fracture the party involved.

U.S. Options in Afghanistan and the Karzai Brothers

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hamid Karzai was declared the winner of the presidential vote in Afghanistan on November 2 and he was quickly warned that he must crack down on rampant corruption. Vanda Felbab-Brown joined several other experts to discuss what should be done about President Karzai's brother, Wali Karzai, who has been linked to Afghanistan's narcotics trade.

Abdullah's Withdrawal from the Runoff Election in Afghanistan

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon discusses Abdullah Abdullah's withdrawal from Afghanistan's presidential election runoff that was scheduled for November 7. O'Hanlon argues that while Afghan President Karzai can now be viewed as legitimate, although tainted, he is hardly out of the woods.

The Role of the Military in Climate Change and Security

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 29, 2009, 3:00 PM to 5:15 PM

On October 29, the Energy Security Initiative at Brookings, the Institute for Environmental Security, CNA, E3G and the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars hosted a discussion on the real dangers for conflicts and disputes resulting from resource shortages, water rights and natural disasters.

Narco-belligerents Across the Globe: Lessons from Colombia for Afghanistan?

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Increased insecurity in Afghanistan and the sense that the counterinsurgency is not being won have left many looking for comparisons that can shape future policy. Vanda Felbab-Brown examines similarities between the counternarcotics and counterinsurgency efforts in Colombia to draw conclusions on how to reverse recent trends in Afghanistan.

Pakistan's Punjab: Bruce Riedel on the New Jihadists

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Political violence in Pakistan is at its highest level in decades, with insurgent attacks on the rise and intensive government clashes with the Taliban in the country’s western provinces. In recent weeks in particular, attacks by Punjabi militant groups have increased dramatically. Bruce Riedel spoke with Newsweek's Andrew Bast and outlined this increasingly precarious situation in Pakistan as well as the prospects for future stability.

U.S. Counternarcotics Strategy in Afghanistan

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before the Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control, Vanda Felbab-Brown discussed how narcotics production influences the security, political, and economic developments in Afghanistan. Felbab-Brown also examined the effectiveness of policies to mitigate these effects and offered recommendations for the future of U.S. policy on the issue.

Make American Resources Conditional on Afghan Progress

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Congressional leaders and the Obama administration discussing "intermediate options" in Afghanistan, but could such an approach prove successful? Michael O’Hanlon and Stephen Solarz offer insight into what middle-ground steps General Stanley McChrystal is already taking and explain how an active U.S.-Afghan partnership is essential to providing security, safety and success in Afghanistan.

Assessing the President’s Policy Options in Afghanistan

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 16, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

President Obama's decision on whether to send more troops to Afghanistan is being portrayed as the most momentous of his young presidency. On October 16, Brookings hosted a discussion of the president's policy options for Afghanistan, drawing on experts with a diverse range of views.

It's All or Nothing in Afghanistan

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Afghanistan strategy debate continues, Vanda Felbab-Brown says policymakers should not be fooled by options that lie “in the middle” of a beefed-up counterinsurgency mission and a scaled-back counterterrorism operation. Felbab-Brown believes the United States and NATO must decide how important the stakes are, and either properly resource the current mission or cut losses now rather than later.

Should President Obama Send More Troops to Afghanistan?

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon joined Bob Shieffer, and guests on Face the Nation, to discuss the current and future U.S. strategy in Afghanistan. O'Hanlon focused on the growth of the Taliban as grounds to back additional troop increases for the counterinsurgency mission and argued the counterterrorism strategy advocated by some has already been tried and did not work.

The Danger of Delay in Afghan Policymaking

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While President Barack Obama and his advisers complete a study on U.S. operations in Afghanistan, Bruce Riedel warns of the consequences of delaying new action. Riedel says it is vital for the administration to avoid lengthy delays in deciding on a course of action in its planning for the Af-Pak war theater.

States of Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iraq remains between peace and war while the situation in Afghanistan still appears to be deteriorating, and Pakistan is doing better than Afghanistan but more progress is needed. Jason Campbell, Michael O'Hanlon and Jeremy Shapiro examine leading metrics from all three countries to assess how well the counterinsurgency and stabilization operations are faring.

Gen. Stanley McChrystal: A General Within Bounds in Afghanistan

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Gen. Stanley McChrystal, the U.S. commander in Afghanistan, has come under fire for making public comments about the war. Michael O'Hanlon writes that while McChrystal was indeed too blunt, the criticism goes too far because McChrystal critiqued an option – scaling back to a counterterrorism mission – directly at odds with the current policy.

The Afghanistan and Pakistan Indexes and Assessments of U.S. Policies in the Region

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 05, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Afghanistan and Pakistan have challenged President Obama since he took office, as questions persist about the success of U.S. policies in the region. On October 5, Brookings hosted the launch of a new Pakistan Index with a discussion on the state of the Afghanistan mission and the effort to address extremist activities in Pakistan.

How to Measure the War in Afghanistan and Iraq

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Correctly sizing the military force and tracking results on the ground are key to success in counterinsurgency and stabilization missions, write Jason Campbell, Michael O'Hanlon, and Jeremy Shapiro. To determine how the U.S. strategy is working, they assess a range of indicators to measure progress in Afghanistan and relate them to lessons learned from the conflict in Iraq.

No Big Blank Checks for Afghanistan

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon says an apparent gap has emerged between the military leadership in Afghanistan and President Obama's advisers who have growing doubts about the mission there. Though additional troops may be needed, O'Hanlon believes it is it is sensible to tie a commitment of more resources to the Afghanistan government doing more and addressing corruption within their country.

Al Qaeda's New Charm Offensive in Europe

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Osama bin Laden and Mullah Omar recently delivered messages warning Europe about the perils of staying in Afghanistan. After speaking with French officials while in Paris, Bruce Riedel concludes that NATO ally France understands the stakes and will stay in Afghanistan if America stays.

Reducing Demand for Poppy Inside and Outside Afghanistan

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Afghanistan's drug economy needs urgent attention, but it also needs a smart policy. Emphasizing rural development and legal livelihoods while interdicting drug traffickers and reducing demand worldwide are the best options, says Vanda Felbab-Brown.

Why We Can't Go Small In Afghanistan

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As questions about future military deployments to Afghanistan grow more numerous, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel dissect the argument that the United States can again narrow the mission to only address counterterrorism. O'Hanlon and Riedel conclude the correct path remains the one outlined by President Obama in March, even though it may require more time and resources.

The Obama Administration’s New Counternarcotics Strategy in Afghanistan

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Barack Obama considers alternatives to increasing the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan, Vanda Felbab-Brown argues his administration's new counternarcotics policy represents a courageous break with previous misguided efforts there and thirty years of U.S. counternarcotics policies around the world.

Tie Troops to Progress on Afghanistan’s Corruption

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Jane Harman write that the Afghanistan metrics delivered to Congress last week sorely understate the issue of government corruption. They conclude success in Afghanistan hinges on success of an anti-corruption effort and offer suggestions for both internal and external actors to address the problem.

Fending Off Failure in Afghanistan: The Opium Factor

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A recent statement by Gen. Stanley McChrystal calling for a dramatic increase in troops on the ground in Afghanistan has sparked a new nationwide debate over U.S. strategy in the country. Vanda Felbab-Brown contends increased resources will be vital to ensure success in the counterinsurgency operation, and she argues there is a critical link between security, counternarcotics and counterterrorism efforts.

Kim Beazley is the Right Man for Australian Ambassador to the United States

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd recently appointed Kim Beazley the next ambassador to the United States. Michael Fullilove says it is a savvy move at an important time. Fullilove outlines various reasons as to why Beazley can help strengthen the Australia-U.S. relationship and notes several challenges including the ongoing war in Afghanistan.

Terrain, Tribes, and Terrorists: Pakistan, 2006-2008

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leading counterinsurgency expert David Kilcullen argues that Pakistani security forces have performed inadequately against insurgents in the frontier with Afghanistan because poor governance and societal weaknesses have been exacerbated by decades of violence and lawlessness. Heavy-handed military tactics by the army have resulted in a perpetuation of violence, and have only further undermined local governance. A fundamental rethink of Pakistan’s political strategy is therefore necessary.

Global Warming and War Both Require Sacrifice

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though there are many differences between climate change and wars like the one in Afghanistan, Michael Fullilove considers the similarities and how each impacts Australia and the world. Fullilove argues that both require global cooperation and that the surest way to failure is for countries to stand on the sidelines instead of being involved.

UN Says Afghan Opium Production Down

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

According to a new United Nations report, Opium cultivation is down 22 percent in Afghanistan. Vanda Felbab-Brown joined National Public Radio to discuss why the significance of these numbers should not be overestimated and to offer insight into the new counternarcotics strategy in Afghanistan.

What's Right With Afghanistan

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As support for the war in Afghanistan continues to fall, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel examine the positive aspects of the mission there. They argue that state building is an inherently slow process while concluding the largely pro-American Afghan people want to succeed and noting police and military forces are becoming more able.

Afghanistan: Measuring Progress Toward Peace

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the important August 20 elections in Afghanistan, Michael O'Hanlon and Bruce Riedel write that this is likely the final fresh start for the U.S. and NATO. With support for the war falling at home and abroad, they explore how progress should be quantified in Afghanistan and urge patience regarding the mission there.

Politique étrangère d'Obama: les nuages noirs de l'automne

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaïsse lays out the delicate international issues that await President Obama in the fall. He concludes none of them holds any promise of easy resolution, and the principles on which Obama founded his foreign policy will be severly tested. (French)

Afghanistan’s Election Matters as Much for the Country as for the World

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel writes that Afghanistan’s presidential election could provide a critical update on the progress of the war in that country. He argues the U.S. and NATO appear to have the upper hand given the Taliban's failure to have a major influence on the election, but says questions on the electoral process and regional impact still need to be answered.

The Scouting Report: Afghanistan's Elections

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

August 26, 2009, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

On August 20, Afghans headed to the polls for the first contested national elections in Afghanistan’s history. On Wednesday, August 26, Brookings expert Michael O’Hanlon returned from a trip to Afghanistan and answered your questions about that country’s presidential election in a live web chat with Fred Barbash, senior editor of Politico.

Prospects for Afghanistan's Future: Assessing the Outcome of the Afghan Presidential Election

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

August 25, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

The outcome of Afghanistan's presidential election remains in doubt, but most agree that it doesn't matter who wins as much as how the victory occurs. Brookings hosted a panel of experts, moderated by Martin Indyk, to discuss the outcome of the Afghan election. The panel analyzed the result of the election and examined its impact on the future of the country and the conflict.

Afghanistan Elections: President Obama's Afghan Test

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Seen as a test of the United States’ new strategy in Afghanistan and the Taliban's influence in the country, Bruce Riedel believes the stakes in the August 20 Afghanistan elections are higher than who will be elected president for the next five years. He writes that if the elections are successful, the NATO mission and Afghan government will get a boost of confidence and legitimacy that has been badly needed.

Afghanistan's Elections and Accountable Governance

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The August 20 elections in Afghanistan represent a crucial opportunity to give Afghans a sense of at least some control over their future. Vanda Felbab-Brown examines the leading candidates and argues the international community needs to make it clear to the next Afghan president that assistance is conditioned on improved and accountable governance.

A Crucial Election for Afghanistan's Future

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:48:11 GMT

On August 20, Afghanistan holds a presidential election that many observers feel is a critical component of that country's continued fight against Taliban insurgents along a path to stable governance. Vanda Felbab-Brown says the outcome must be seen as legitimate for the future of the country's development and government's legitimacy.

The 2009 Afghanistan Elections and the Future of Governance

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vanda Felbab-Brown believes the August 20 Afghanistan elections represent a test for at least three critical issues in that country – accountability, military strength and governance. Felbab-Brown argues that ushering in more effective and responsible governance is critical, and she concludes it must be built by Afghan hands rather than forced by international actors.

Why Are Afghans Smiling?

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though Afghanistan has been at war much of the last 30 years, Carol Graham and Jeremy Shapiro find that Afghans remain surprisingly happy. Graham and Shapiro believe adaptations to crime and corruption play a major role and argue that better understanding of multiple happiness factors, including Taliban influence, should shape future U.S. strategy in the country.

The 2009 Afghan Elections and the Future of the International Community in Afghanistan

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro argues pundits should focus more on what the elections in Afghanistan say about the international community than what they mean for the country. He cautions that actions by international actors are often seen from the inside as rigging elections to a pre-determined outcome and concludes that if these efforts to build a democracy fail it may help Afghanistan become a terrorist state once again.

The Taliban and the Afghan Elections

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel writes that elections in Afghanistan on August 20 are both an opportunity and a challenge for the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. Though statistics have recently been on the Taliban's side, the ability for NATO and the Afghan government to pull off a credible election could be an important initial milestone in turning things around.

The Next Terror Target

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the apparent death of Pakistani Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsud in a Predator drone strike, Bruce Riedel looks to the next target. Riedel says America and its allies must eliminate the far more dangerous and elusive Mullah Muhammad Omar because of his leading role in the Taliban’s resurgence in Afghanistan.

Successful Afghan Election Is Only Part of the Fight against the Taliban

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:19:35 GMT

Afghans voted on August 20 in the second presidential election since the Taliban were ousted by U.S.-led forces in late 2001. Despite a resurgent Taliban, Bruce Riedel says that victory in Afghanistan is attainable and that a clean election is absolutely critical to the legitimacy of the government.

Obama off to a Good Start on Security Issues

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon assesses Barack Obama's foreign policy record halfway through his first year as president. From Russia to China and India, O'Hanlon concludes that Obama is handling situations about as well as possible. In Iraq and Afghanistan, O’Hanlon believes Obama has been willing to take important advice from commanders on the ground as well as Secretary Gates to make tough but well executed decisions.

The West Can Win in Afghanistan

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though there have been increased attacks, growing casualties and falling popular support, Michael Fullilove and Anthony Bubalo write that Afghanistan is still winnable. They believe the Obama administration has done well by increasing resources and refocusing on what can be achieved, and say there is too much at stake for the West to conclude Afghanistan is the graveyard of foreign armies and depart.

How the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars Have Shaped the Obama Administration

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:11:16 GMT

Michael O’Hanlon says that conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq presented Obama with a situation that none of his five predecessors had to contend with in their early months in the White House.

Armageddon in Islamabad

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel warns not to be fooled by some of the positive news from Pakistan, because the Taliban and their allies have gained significant power there recently. Riedel says we face the potential of a nuclear-armed state run by Islamic extremists, shows the devastating consequences of such and offers ideas to keep it from occurring.

Target the Drug Lords in Afghanistan, Not the Farmers

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vanda Felbab-Brown writes that the new U.S. counternarcotics strategy in Afghanistan represents a courageous and welcome shift in American policy. Felbab-Brown believes focusing on legal alternatives for farmers and emphasizing rural development will breed success in reducing illicit economies as well as bolster the larger counterinsurgency operation.

Peace, Reconciliation, and Displacement

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Displacement is one of the tragic consequences of conflict. Elizabeth Ferris argues that once a conflict ends, resolving displacement and preventing future displacement is inextricably linked with achieving a lasting peace.

We Might Still Need More Troops In Afghanistan

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For all its virtues, the new plan in Afghanistan may still lowball requirements for the mission to succeed, writes Michael O'Hanlon. He believes that, at the very least, the Obama administration should leave the option of upping the troop commitment on the table should the need arise.

Why Afghanistan Is No Iraq

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though there are parallels between Iraq and Afghanistan, says Michael O’Hanlon, Afghanistan’s history of war makes the Afghan people realistic in their expectations about the future—and grateful for even modest progress.

Are We Losing Afghanistan?

Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the United States launches a surge in Afghanistan and weariness grows among other nations, the Taliban and al-Qaeda smell victory in the second-longest war in American history. Bruce Riedel discusses what G8 leaders—and President Obama—must do at their summit this week to shift the momentum.

The G8: From Trieste to L’Aquila

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Binda believes the recent G8 foreign ministers meeting in Trieste has set the stage for pragmatic and operative discussions at the upcoming G8 summit. Bindi examines key issues of the debate including Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and the future role of the European Union in global governance.

Building A Basis For Success in Afghanistan

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While many of the military objectives have been determined in Afghanistan, Michael O'Hanlon believes there are many crucial decisions ahead regarding economic matters. O'Hanlon explores options ranging from increased foreign aid to developing free-trade agreements, and he offers suggestions for the challenges ahead.

Previewing President Obama’s Trip to Russia

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:48:04 GMT

As President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev meet in Moscow, Steven Pifer says the administration is looking for three key outcomes from the meeting: a new treaty to replace START, a cooperative approach for dealing with Iran and Afghanistan, and a structured mechanism to keep their mutual interests on track.

Trieste, Al Qaeda and the Stakes in Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As G8 foreign ministers meet in Italy prior to the G8 summit in July, Bruce Riedel comments on an interview in which an al Qaeda operative predicts the group will take over Afghanistan and Pakistan then use Pakistan's nuclear weapons against the United States. Riedel says the foreign ministers need to be clear and unequivocal that they will provide the resources needed to defeat al Qaeda and the Taliban to lessen the chance of a nuclear Armageddon.

The Failure to Protect: Battle-Affected IDPs in Southern Afghanistan

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Civilians have long borne the brunt of the conflict in Afghanistan. According to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, civilian casualties in 2008 were 40% higher than the previous year. However, although civilian casualties are widely covered and are being addressed, Alex Mundt and Susanne Schmeidl point out that the broader protection concerns, particularly the plight of battle-affected IDPs, remain invisible and largely unacknowledged.

The States of Iraq and Afghanistan

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American troop buildup is proceeding in Afghanistan while Iraq—despite several recent attacks—continues to slowly progress on many fronts. Jason Campbell, Michael O'Hanlon and Jeremy Shapiro examine leading metrics from both conflicts to assess how well the counterinsurgency operations are going.

Afghan Star: The Impact of Independent Media in Afghanistan

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 12, 2009, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On June 12, the Brookings Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World hosted a discussion on the role of independent media in Afghanistan. Discussion centered on holding government accountable, fostering critical thinking, and empowering women to the most effective strategy for the United States in supporting independent media and the societal changes it promotes.

Afghanistan and Pakistan: A Status Report

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 08, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On June 8, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion of the war-torn regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan, and offered status reports on both conflicts. Brookings senior fellow Michael O’Hanlon offered introductory remarks and moderated the discussion.

Between a Rock and a Hard Place: The Return of Internally Displaced Persons to Northern Afghanistan

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At first glance, the return of hundreds of displaced Pashtun families from war-torn Kandahar province in southern Afghanistan to their villages of origin in the comparatively peaceful north would seem an obvious and attractive option. It is a solution welcomed by a beleagured Afghan government and supported by the United Nations agencies. But, as with many things in Afghanistan, as Mundt, Schmeidl, and Ziai argue, apperances often deceive.

Weak States and Strong Troublemakers

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vanda Felbab-Brown discussed the threats posed by strengthening drug cartels in Mexico, weakening central governments in Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as transnational security threats to the U.S.

Comparing the U.S. and Soviet Experiences in Afghanistan

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A country rarely fights the same war twice in one generation, especially from opposite sides. Yet Bruce Riedel writes that in many ways describes the U.S. role in Afghanistan today. Pakistan’s role as a safe haven is remarkably consistent in both conflicts, but that similarity misses the fundamental differences between the two wars. Riedel addresses the differences, and assesses how Pakistan’s role is impacting the possibilities for success today.

Pakistan: A Potential Jihadist State?

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell to discuss the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan. Riedel argued that Pakistan is the most dangerous country in the world and that the United States must attempt to support the civilian government, because other options could be disastrous for the region and world.

Combating Al Qaeda: Strategies for the Future

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a speech to the International Peace Institute, Bruce Riedel said the situation in Pakistan is “dire and deteriorating,” while al Qaeda's core leadership is alive and remains a deadly threat. He also offered policy suggestions for U.S. policy toward Pakistan and Afghanistan as well as dealing with the issue of terrorism emanating from South Asia.

Change of Command in Afghanistan

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon reacts to the announcement by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates that General David McKiernan is being relieved of command in Afghanistan. O'Hanlon believes McKiernan can leave Kabul knowing he improved the dynamics on the ground during his tenure and that the region is far better off now than when he took over.

Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons: Averting the Worst

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Pakistani military launched a new offensive against the Taliban in the country’s North-West Frontier Province, officials and former officials in Washington continued to discuss what the American response should be to the heightened conflict. Bruce Riedel offers his views on the situation.

Pakistan's "Existential Threat" Comes From Within

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an interview with the Council on Foreign Relations, Bruce Riedel noted "the situation remains dire" in Pakistan. Riedel believes there is a real possibility of a jihadist state emerging in Pakistan and argues it is crucial for Congress to pass the five-year $7.5 billion economic aid package so that "we can send a signal to Pakistan that we're in this for the long haul and that it's not a conditions-based relationship."

The Scouting Report: Afghanistan and Pakistan

Wed, 06 May 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 06, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

This Wednesday, President Obama met with the leaders of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Brookings expert Vanda Felbab-Brown and Politico Senior Editor John Ward Anderson took questions about the deepening crisis in those nations in the May 6 edition of the Scouting Report.

Pakistan's Nuclear Scenarios: The Risks with Bombing

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Governance, Growth and Development in Afghanistan

Tue, 05 May 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 05, 2009, 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On May 5, the Brookings Institution hosted His Excellency President Hamid Karzai for a discussion of the Afghan perspective on a new strategy for governance, institution-building and economic development in light of the upcoming presidential election in Afghanistan.

Europe's Problematic Contribution to Police Training in Afghanistan

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federiga Bindi argues that the recent NATO summit provided Europe with an opportunity to fulfill promises and contribute to a successful outcome in Afghanistan. Since the solution in Afghanistan will need more than military success, Bindi outlines ways in which Europe can contribute to building governance and rule-of-law structures.

The Migration-Displacement Nexus in Afghanistan

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Migration and displacement in and from Afghanistan are bewilderingly complex. One of the world's largest protracted refugee situations coincides with the largest repatriation in recent history. Returnees to Afghanistan cross paths with increasing numbers of cross-border migrants, traders, and new refugees moving in the opposite direction. Other returnees have become IDPs. Khalid Koser argues that as a result, Afghanistan's border regions illustrate a "migration-displacement nexus."

Assessing Counterinsurgency and Stabilization Missions

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In conventional warfare, identifying the momentum of battle is a fairly straightforward undertaking, but counterinsurgency and stabilization operations are different, and more complex. Jason Campbell, Michael O'Hanlon and Jeremy Shapiro examine a range of indicators in both Afghanistan and Iraq to reach policy conclusions for current and future counterinsurgency operations.

Well-being and Public Attitudes in Afghanistan: Some Insights from the Economics of Happiness

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In Afghanistan, individuals have to cope with the most adverse of circumstances. Carol Graham and Soumya Chattopadhyay use tools provided by a new approach in economics that relies on surveys of happiness or reported well-being to deepen our understanding of conditions there.They conclude that average happiness scores in Afghanistan are higher than the world average and discuss the implications of this and other findings for policy.

Afghanistan: What Is at Stake?

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Twice in the last 25 years the United States has squandered great victories achieved in Afghanistan by failing to follow up battlefield success with a commitment to helping build a stable government. Bruce Riedel analyzes these past victories and explains how the new administration can avoid replicating past mistakes that would have greater consequence today.

Pakistan and Afghanistan: Obama's Challenge, Obama's War

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 30, 2009, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

On April 30, the Saban Center for Middle East Policy hosted Bruce Riedel and Carlos Pascual to discuss President Barack Obama's newly introduced strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, which marked the conclusion of an extensive interagency policy review in which Riedel was chairman.

First 100 days: Grading Obama’s Foreign Policy

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama spends his 100th day in office, Michael O'Hanlon assesses the foreign policy maneuvers of the new U.S. administration. Partisan debates aside, O'Hanlon argues that Obama is off to a more solid start—in numerous regions of the world—than any of his recent predecessors.

Lloyd Austin: A U.S. Military Hero You Should Know

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lloyd Austin is back from Iraq, where he was the number 2 U.S. commander. Michael O'Hanlon writes that Austin's successful tenure says plenty about him and Iraq—and also offers some insights into where the U.S. command should be headed in Afghanistan.

A Tighter Command Is Needed in Afghanistan

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Ömer Taşpınar write that the Obama administration's plan for Afghanistan and Pakistan is generally strong, but it also requires improvement. Most importantly, O'Hanlon and Taşpınar believe command arrangements need to be strengthened, based on the three-person Iraq model and broadened to include a foreign leader like Turkey's foreign minister Hikmet Cetin.

Obama Sees Turkey's Influence and Value

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During President Obama's recent trip to Turkey, former national security adviser Samuel Berger and Brookings visiting fellow Mark Parris wrote that Turkey is worth the time and effort. Though the U.S. and Turkey cannot expect their strategic partnership to be seamless, Turkey can play an important role from Afghanistan to the Middle East and into Europe.

Le tournant d'Obama en Afghanistan

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this online chat with Le Nouvel Observateur, Justin Vaisse discusses Obama's trip to Europe and his new strategy for Afghanistan. (French)

Barack Obama's First NATO Summit

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:20:20 GMT

As NATO celebrates its 60th anniversary, Visiting Fellow Steven Pifer says the alliance has serious business to conduct. President Obama and other alliance leaders will address issues of critical importance including unrest in Afghanistan and Russia’s relationship with its neighbors.

Tackling NATO's Challenges

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 30, 2009, 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM

When President Barack Obama and NATO leaders met in early April to celebrate the NATO alliance’s 60th anniversary, they also confronted the daunting challenges facing NATO today. Prior to the event, the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings held a public discussion to preview President Obama’s first NATO summit.

Beyond Gloom and Doom in Pakistan

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Saleem Ali argues that the dominance of a few thousand militants in a narrow valley being suggestive of a larger movement towards Talibanization of Pakistan is preposterous.

Grading Obama's Afghanistan Strategy

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While Michael O'Hanlon generally supports the new Afghanistan strategy set forth by the Obama administration, he feels it can still be improved and offers suggestions to do so.

Understanding the New Afghanistan Strategy

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following President Obama’s announcement regarding additional troops and a new approach to fighting insurgents in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Bruce Riedel spoke to Charlie rose to explain what changes are planned and why they need to be made.

An Exit Strategy is a Must-Have for Afghanistan

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama has recently stated that any new approach in Afghanistan will require an exit strategy from the get-go. Michael O'Hanlon believes the U.S. can have both a success strategy and an exit strategy at once, writing that we must work with our NATO allies and plan on handing over responsibility to U.S.-trained Afghan security forces slowly over the course of several years.

A Guide to Talking with Insurgents

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman writes that talking with insurgents is often a necessary first step toward defeating them or reaching an acceptable compromise. Pointing to successes in Iraq and elsewhere, Byman addresses the costs and advantages of talking with insurgents to draw conclusions about how lessons learned may be applied to Afghanistan.

Toward Reconciliation in Afghanistan

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The United States is committed to Afghanistan and over the course of 2009 will roughly double its troop strength there. Michael O'Hanlon analyzes the prospects for further development of the security sector and what will need to be accomplished for political reconciliation in Afghanistan.

The States of Iraq and Afghanistan

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama looks to reduce the number of troops in Iraq, the situation in Afghanistan is increasingly cloudy. Jason Campbell, Michael O'Hanlon and Jeremy Shapiro examine leading indicators of progress—or lack thereof—in both countries.

Can Obama Win In Afghanistan?

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

By 2010, the Afghanistan conflict will have become the longest war in American history. Michael O'Hanlon defends President Obama's proposed plan for roughly doubling U.S. combat forces in Afghanistan and argues that the strategic stakes in Afghanistan are high, given Al Qaeda's presence in the country. But, says O'Hanlon, the prospects for stability are reasonably good.

Warfare Balance Sheet

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon explores defense spending in Afghanistan, Iraq and other locations in the world where U.S. military personnel are based. O'Hanlon finds that changes planned by the Obama administration will save large amounts of money over the coming years, but he cautions that politics of defense will continue to make it difficult to deny funding which supports troops in the field.

The Way Forward in Afghanistan

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro spoke with Spiegel Online about how to move forward in Afghanistan and why a troop surge may not be the answer.

Promoting Good Governance and Fighting Corruption in Afghanistan

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 25, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On February 25, the Center on the U.S. and Europe (CUSE) hosted Afghanistan’s Minister of Interior, Mohammad Hanif Atmar, for a public address on promoting good governance, fighting corruption and building the Afghan National Police.

Humanitarian Space, Humanitarian Principles: Experiences from Iraq and Afghanistan

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 20, 2009, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM

The basic principles of humanitarian action are being challenged from all sides. Upholding the neutrality of humanitarian action and protecting humanitarian space is increasingly difficult and perhaps nowhere as much as in Afghanistan and Iraq.