An International Partnership
Rebuilding a country that was devastated by thirty years of conflict is a long-term undertaking that requires the participation of many countries and partners. Canada’s contribution to Afghanistan is part of a broader international effort that includes more than 60 nations and implementing partners.
The international mission is focused on helping the Government of Afghanistan assume responsibility for security, governance and development, as agreed to by the Government of Afghanistan and the international community at the Kabul Conference in July 2010.
The first step in this transition process (known as Inteqal) focuses on transferring the responsibility for security from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF). The target is for the ANSF to lead security operations across Afghanistan by the end of 2014.
Key partners in Afghanistan include:
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA): UNAMA is a political mission, established at the request of the Government of Afghanistan, to help the government and the people of Afghanistan lay the foundations for sustainable peace and development. UNAMA has the lead coordination role in Afghanistan to support the government in its efforts to improve critical areas of governance, economic development and regional cooperation. The UN Security Council reviews UNAMA’s mandate on an annual basis.
The NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF): Under the authority of the UN and in support of the Afghan government, ISAF conducts operations in Afghanistan to reduce the capability and will of the insurgency, support the growth of the ANSF’s capacity and capability, and facilitate improvements in governance and socio-economic development. The UN Security Council also reviews ISAF’s mandate on an annual basis.
NGOs: Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a key role in Afghanistan to support Afghan refugees, rehabilitation efforts, capacity building and the provision of emergency assistance. There are now hundreds of local and international NGOs working in Afghanistan.
International Financial Institutions: These organizations, such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank provide important policy advice and financial assistance to the Government of Afghanistan in support of economic and social development.
