Afghanistan: what did 20 years achieve and what should the UK do now?

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The UK’s two decade-long campaign in Afghanistan ended this summer with the withdrawal of British troops and diplomatic personnel from Kabul. A mission that began with the overthrow of the Taliban ended with the Taliban returning to power.

What did the UK’s 20-year stay in Afghanistan accomplish? Should politicians or the military take the blame for its failures? And how should Afghans and the international community approach the next phase of Taliban rule?

To discuss these questions the Institute for Government was delighted to bring together:

• Jack Straw, UK Foreign Secretary (2001–05)
• Hasina Safi, Afghanistan's acting Minister for Women (May 2020 – August 2021)
• Tobias Ellwood MP, Chair of the Commons Defence Select Committee

The discussion was chaired by Bronwen Maddox, Director of the Institute for Government.

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