For years now the U.S. government has pursued a counter-insurgency strategy in Afghanistan that uses both military and civilian components to stabilize war-torn regions. The philosophy is that the military can secure an area, while civilians implement quick impact development projects meant to win the support of Afghans. Hillary Clinton calls the strategy “smart power” and praises the inter-agency coordination it has brought to U.S. involvement there. But many humanitarian groups say that blurring lines between the military and civilians puts aid workers at risk as they try to improve the lives of Afghan people despite the war. Some experts argue that development aid married to military efforts fuels the rampant corruption already causing problems in the war torn country. Others say, like it or not, this is the best and most effective strategy we’ve got. Is “winning the hearts and minds” of Afghan people the only way to succeed in Afghanistan? Is it even possible?
Guests:
Ashley Jackson, Head of Policy and Advocacy, Oxfam in Afghanistan
Andrew Wilder, Director of Afghanistan and Pakistan Programs at United States Institute of Peace
Lt. Colonel Hal Kempfer, Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, CEO of KIPP (Knowledge & Intelligence Program Professionals)