Humera Iqbal
Humera Iqbal is an Assistant Research Officer at the Institute of Regional Studies.
DOI: http://DOI Number
Keywords: Afghanistan, security, political landscape, factionalized, collateral damage, allied countries, 2014 withdrawal, civil war, Peace and reconciliations, Pakistan
Abstract
Afghanistan is still a highly complicated society, struggling amid an unpredictable political and security situation after more than three decades of war. Years of fighting and anarchy have left it fractured and factionalized. On the one side, there is the contentious relationship between the Afghan Government and its people with ally countries; on the other hand, combatting militants has set the path for social and economic breakdown in the community. At each level, many groups and factions are embroiled in deep-rooted, multidimensional disputes, with the majority vying for a portion of power or resources. As a result, there is significant collateral damage and a high prevalence of wartime misconduct. As a result, even within the much-touted “2014 Withdrawal” programme, concrete and lasting development, the most desired component of the Afghan peace process, appears to be lost. Certain uncertainty surrounding the handover in 2014, as well as the transitional phase with future security personnel, pose tremendous hurdles. Most post-2014 estimates are negative and raise major worries, such as rebels regaining power, social breakdown, and civil war re-ignition. However, the Afghan people’s unwavering drive and perseverance, particularly among the youth, is considered as a ray of hope. This study provides a timeline of numerous initiatives made over the last decade in the hope of attaining peace, as well as an analysis of current activities. It attempts to give insight into President Karzai’s policy of Peace and Reconciliation, explores the dynamics of central and influential stakeholders, and identifies the role played by various members of the international community, especially Pakistan.
First Published
March 25, 2014
How to Cite
Humera Iqbal, “Quest for Peace in Afghanistan,” Regional Studies 32, no.2 (Spring 2014): 3-50, https://regionalstudies.com.pk/wp/article/quest-for-peace-in-afghanistan/
Issue
Volume 32, Issue 2