What did the US leave behind in Afghanistan?
The withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan in 2021 marked the end of a two-decade-long military presence. As the dust settled, the question of what the US left behind in Afghanistan became a topic of intense debate and reflection. This article explores the various legacies of the US presence, ranging from tangible infrastructure to intangible impacts on the Afghan society and politics.>
The US involvement in Afghanistan began in 2001, following the September 11 attacks. The primary objective was to dismantle the Taliban regime and prevent the country from becoming a safe haven for international terrorism. Over the years, the US invested billions of dollars in reconstruction efforts, military operations, and training local security forces. However, the withdrawal left behind a complex and multifaceted legacy.
One of the most visible legacies of the US presence is the infrastructure development. Schools, hospitals, roads, and other public facilities were constructed across the country. While these projects were aimed at improving the quality of life for Afghans, their long-term sustainability remains uncertain. Many of these infrastructure projects have fallen into disrepair or been destroyed due to the ongoing conflict.
In addition to physical infrastructure, the US also left behind a legacy of training and mentoring for the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF). The goal was to build a capable and professional military and police force that could protect the country from internal and external threats. However, the effectiveness of this training program has been a subject of controversy. The rapid collapse of the ANSF following the US withdrawal raised questions about the quality of the training and the readiness of the forces to defend the country.
The US also left behind a complex web of political and social dynamics. The US intervention in Afghanistan has had a profound impact on the country’s political landscape, with various factions vying for power. The US-backed government struggled to gain widespread support and faced numerous challenges, including corruption, governance issues, and the rise of the Taliban. The withdrawal of US forces has left the Afghan people vulnerable to the whims of powerful political actors and the potential for further instability.
Moreover, the US presence in Afghanistan has had a lasting impact on the country’s economy. The war economy, fueled by US spending, has created a dependency on foreign aid and a lack of diversification. The withdrawal of US forces has led to a decline in aid and investment, which could exacerbate the economic challenges faced by the Afghan people.
Lastly, the US intervention has had a profound impact on the Afghan society, particularly on women and girls. The US initially entered Afghanistan with the promise of improving women’s rights and empowering women. While some progress was made, the withdrawal of US forces has raised concerns about the rollback of these gains. The Taliban’s return to power has led to a restrictive environment for women and girls, with fears of a return to the harsh policies of the past.
In conclusion, the US left behind a complex and multifaceted legacy in Afghanistan. The tangible infrastructure, the training of the ANSF, the political and social dynamics, the economic impact, and the rights of women and girls are all areas where the long-term effects of the US presence continue to unfold. As Afghanistan grapples with the challenges of the post-US era, the nation and the international community must reflect on this legacy and learn from the experiences of the past to shape a more hopeful future.>
