Andrea Armstrong’s research while affiliated with The Graduate Center, CUNY and other places

Over the past 25 years, Afghanistan has been plagued by local, regional and national conflict, effectively handicapping any ability of the country to successfully govern itself while protecting its citizens and interests. Regional networks of armed groups, narcotics traffickers and traders hoping to avoid customs regulations freely traverse Afghanistan’s territory, further contributing to its political and economic unrest. In addressing the need for regional reconstruction of Afghanistan, this article first examines the factors contributing to the country’s current state of instability including the presence of religious militant groups and warlords struggling to maintain control. As a result, poverty and drug addiction run rampant throughout the region, causing widespread emigration and loss of human capital. Next, this article addresses the need for regional cooperation to ensure the successful implementation of increased security, additional physical infrastructure and improved trade and economic agreements. Last, this article suggests ways in which Afghanistan may achieve reconstruction through cooperation with trade associations, establishment of a trust fund and creation of a regional forum. This article concludes that through encouraging investment and enlisting the collaborative efforts of its regional partners, Afghanistan will likely become a more successful and peaceful state.