Investing in Afghanistan's future (Brussels)

 

Ensuring stability in Afghanistan after the planned 2010 draw-down in NATO’s presence in the country requires urgent action on an array of fronts. An improvement in domestic governance structures is critical. Currently, a lack of commitment to the rule of law, coupled with widespread corruption and heightened insecurity, hinder human and economic development in Afghanistan.  Stronger civilian institutions are needed. The future of Afghanistan also depends on the strength and vitality of its people, including the ability of its reformers, business leaders, civil society groups and women to operate without restrictions. The recent international conference in Bonn has promised continued support for post-2014 Afghanistan. But with aid budgets under pressure, can this pledge be fulfilled? How can the international community best assist in developing human, institutional and regulatory capacities in the country? What are the key challenges ahead and what role can the EU play in assisting the transition?  Can modern models of education and society survive post 2014 and can an Afghan identity emerge and co-exist with new models of education? What lesson have we learned about cultural needs and investment in people?  Will Afghanistan’s civil society structures remain influential or will they be overtaken by traditional versions?  

 

Speakers:

• Nasrine Gross, Founder and President of the Roqia Center for Women’s Rights, Studies and Education, Afghanistan

• Horia Mosadiq, Afghanistan Researcher at Amnesty International

• Pedro Serrano, Director for South and Southeast Asia at the European External Action Service (EEAS)

• Paul Smith, British Council Country Director, Afghanistan

• Col. Michel Lalumière, Chief of Staff, Combined Joint Interagency Task Force Shafafiyat, International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)

 

Moderated by Shada Islam, Head of Policy at Friends of Europe

  

View the full programme on the Friends of Europe or Security & Defence Agenda websites