The Ongoing Struggle in Afghanistan
Introduction
For more than forty years, the people of Afghanistan have faced turmoil and hardship. An ongoing conflict between its government and various militant groups, including the Taliban, has persisted for much of the country’s modern history. Despite the hard work of many, a secure and united Afghanistan is yet out of reach.
State of Conflict
Afghanistan descended into civil war soon after the Soviet Union withdrew from the country in 1989. Since then, the region has been mired in conflict between the Islamic State, or ISIS, the Taliban, and numerous other militant groups. In addition to fighting within the border, Afghan forces have had to contend with subversive tactics by neighboring Pakistan, which have included fighting proxy wars with rival militant groups.
The ongoing violence has displaced the population and caused widespread famine. As of 2019, close to 70% of the population lacks access to adequate food, and Afghanistan currently has the second highest rate of food insecurity in the world. As of 2020, 43 percent of Afghans were malnourished and unable to access the necessary resources to be healthy.
International Support
NATO is leading the international effort to end the conflict in Afghanistan. In 2019, NATO formed a new mission to train, advise and assist Afghan security forces as they fight off insurgent groups. In March 2020, NATO and the Afghan government signed a Security and Defense Cooperation Agreement, stipulating that the international mission would last until 2024.
That same year, NATO announced the launching of a peace initiative to end the violence, which includes a Coordination Center at its headquarters in Brussels. The initiative is backed by several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany.
In addition to military efforts, various other organizations, such as the World Food Program, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Red Cross, are working in the region to provide resources and humanitarian aid.
Conclusion
The conflict in Afghanistan has endured for far too long. The people of Afghanistan deserve to live in peace and the international community must continue to provide the necessary resources and support to make it possible. While the current situation is difficult, there is still hope for a lasting peace in Afghanistan – but only with the continued support of the international community.