Taliban 'far from defeated' in Afghanistan, UN warns
Tuesday, 11 Mar 2008 10:38
Tactical successes are not solving the Afghanistan problem, the UN says
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Recent "tactical" successes have not prevented the Taliban continuing to be a major threat to security in Afghanistan, a UN report has warned.
Coalition forces have made progress against the Taliban in recent months, including the British-led ousting of the militant organisation from Musa Qala in Helmand province last December.
But today's UN report says such efforts have not succeeded in bringing peace and security to the central
Asian country, especially to the 36 districts which remain "largely inaccessible" to officials and aid workers.
"This hinders the delivery of humanitarian assistance to vulnerable people, a situation exacerbated by the harsh weather conditions of the past few months," it notes.
Tackling Afghanistan's drug economy is as vital to the country's future success as is defeating the Taliban, the report says. It believes building the institutions of central government are vital to these aims.
"To meet the security challenge and stabilise Afghanistan, a common approach is needed that integrates security, governance, rule of law, human rights and social and economic development," UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon commented.
Although the UN believes more should be done to prepare for next year's elections, Mr Ban's deputy special representative in Afghanistan says the Kabul government is "stronger than ever" thanks to international support.
"All of us, international organizations and donors, are preparing to support the Afghanistan national development strategy," Chris Alexander said.
"There remains a strong consensus among partners and donors that this commitment should continue and even deepen."