Afghanistan democracy

The terror attacks on September 11, 2001, seemingly changed the trajectory of Afghanistan’s history. But today, the country in many ways is back to the status quo ante – except for the thousands of lives lost to war. 

The election of neighborhood representatives in Kabul suggests that the Taliban are in some aspects pragmatic, but this experiment will likely remain limited.

The 2004 constitution is responsible for many of the problems facing Afghanistan today – including the retrenchment of the Taliban.

To avoid another political crisis in Afghanistan, we need to draw lessons from the National Unity Government (NUG).

In Afghanistan's case, devolving power to local institutions will only encourage further jihadism designed to wring concessions from the state.

A political settlement in Afghanistan will require an agreement on regime type: electoral democracy versus emirate. What do the people prefer?

Afghanistan has made progress, but without a well-functioning government at the helm all those gains risk being lost.

The results are still being debated and turnout was low. But Afghanistan’s democracy remains the lone source of hope for the country.

The recent presidential election, coupled with a long list of government failures, is a serious alarm heralding the death of democracy in Afghanistan.

Despite occasional challenges, Sri Lanka’s democracy is vibrant and resilient, inspiring younger democracies such as Afghanistan. 

The talks were a step in the right direction, but only the beginning of a long, fraught process.

Afghanistan's free press is providing a critical service for the country's young democracy.