Peace and Reconciliation in Afghanistan: The Way Forward

Abstract

As the date for the complete withdrawal of the foreign combat mission approaches, Afghanistan is all set to witness the ‘transition’ (Inteqal) phase, wherein the local security apparatus will have shoulder the responsibility of maintaining security in the entire country, and at the same time, take forward the counterinsurgency exercise. While protagonists of the anticipated withdrawal of the foreign forces assert the preparedness of the Afghan National security Forces (ANSF), the continuing violence suggests otherwise. The withdrawal of the foreign troops will mean the absence of an efficient security cover within which the ANSF used to operate. Absent that, the local security apparatus will be handicapped in maintaining, let alone improving, the security scenario in Afghanistan. The security unpreparedness therefore necessitates the implementation of a broad-based reconciliation strategy that can act as the sole guarantor of peace and stability in Afghanistan. If the Kabul government or the US-led coalition fails to enter into negotiations with the Taliban, the insurgency is only going to take a vicious form once the foreign troops withdraw. In this backdrop, reconciliation with the insurgents remains the only viable policy option that can be instrumental in ensuring lasting peace in Afghanistan.