Publication

The goal for this collection of essays is to look into the future—a modest ten years—to think about where Afghanistan can and should be going. It mainly focuses on a few critical priorities—security, rule of law, economic empowerment, and the regional context—with reasonable expectations about what can be achieved over a ten-year span. Second, insecurity, whether due to insurgency, terrorism, regional meddling, or warlordism undermines the potential for progress on all other fronts. Third, and equally important, is the legitimacy of the Afghan government itself and, especially, its will and capacity to implement the rule of law. Ultimately, the future of Afghanistan depends upon the ability of its leaders to organize for a common, positive purpose. Fourth, an engaged, empowered, and informed population is the key to sustainable progress. Finally, we must work with Afghanistan’s neighbors to create a regional environment conducive to Afghanistan’s success.