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Canada’s rolein Afghanistan

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OCTOBER 7, 2001: In response to the

events of September 11, the United States launches Operation

Enduring Freedom against al-Qaeda and its Taliban supporters.

OCTOBER 8, 2001: “The coalition of

nations that has come together to fight the threat of terrorism will

act on a broad front. It includes not only military but humanitarian,

financial, legislative, diplomatic and domestic security initiatives.”

Art Eggleton, Defence Minister

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FEBRUARY 2002: First contingents of

regular Canadian Forces arrive in Afghanistan

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AUGUST 2003: Amid increased violence, NATO

assumes responsibility for

security in Kabul, making

Afghanistan the organization’s

first commitment outside Europe.

2006: Rather than withdraw troops as

planned, Canada extends its

military commitment to

Afghanistan by two years. Troops

are redeployed to Kandahar.

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2008:The Harper government’s motion

to extend Canada’s mission to

2011 is approved by Parliament,

having gained support from the

Liberal opposition.

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2009: U.S. President Barack Obama announces the

deployment of another 30,000 U.S. troops to Afghanistan.

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Canada announces that 950 troops will remain in

Afghanistan until 2014 to train Afghan forces.

Meanwhile, Canadian aid to Afghanistan will be

significantly reduced.

NOVEMBER 17, 2010:

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Nearly 150,000 foreign troops from 47 countries are deployed

in Afghanistan, including roughly 2,800 Canadian Forces

personnel.

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International Forces in Afghanistan

• Operate without a broad political consensus or

comprehensive peace agreement

• Frequently use military methods that lack restraint or

respect for civilians

• Function without sufficient reconstruction or

peacebuilding efforts

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The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people – the

majority civilians – has evolved from a swift overthrowing of

the Taliban into a complex counterinsurgency effort against

Afghans who say they are trying to expel U.S.-led forces.

To avoid a state of perpetual war, we must demand a

comprehensive approach to security that includes Diplomatic

efforts, Development work and aid, support for Democracy,

efforts at Disarmament as well as Defence.

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