ABOUT THE BOOK

Afghanistan is in for yet another phase of uncertainties as the so far scheduled  withdrawl or major reduction of international forces in 2014 comes closer. The international community is perplexed by the complexities of an effective inteqal (transition) and by the modalities that are so far being worked at for ensuring it.

This book brings together varied Afghan voices to set the agenda, address critical gaps in the ongoing inteqal process, 2012-14 and suggest alternate course of action by setting a forward looking agenda, beyond 2014. The strength of this volume stems from the rich contributions by experts and practitioners from the field, providing an in-depth analysis of the perceptions, needs and preparedness on the ground.

The common thread that runs through all the chapters of the book is that inteqal process needs to be Afghan led and Afghan owned. This book provides diverse perspectives of the Afghans by taking a realistic assessment of the achievements and challenges in building local capacities and institutions in key sectors--security, political, governance and economic, for these would form the basis of future progress.

By delving into a range of complex interrelated issues such as security and political sector reform; peace processes-reconciliation, reintegration; economic opportunities- investment, trade and connectivity; civilian surge-aid coordination and effectiveness; strategic communication; role of women, international organisations and non governmental organisations- both from a micro and macro perspective, this volume highlights several critical components of the inteqal process that need immediate and sustained attention. Chapters on regional perspectives and also the US perspective provide important insights into the role of external players in the present imbroglio.

This book is a valuable and timely contribution to the academic and policy discourse on the prospects of effective transition and long-term stabilization of Afghanistan.

ABOUT Author

Dr. Shanthie Mariet D’Souza is Research Fellow at the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS), National University of Singapore. She has been Associate Fellow, Institute for Defence Studies & Analyses, New Delhi and Fulbright Scholar at South Asia Studies, The Paul H Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), Johns Hopkins University, Washington DC (2005-2006).