Thread by @SurfCityWriter

Some things we did wrong.
We did not call on Afghan Americans to provide a deeper understanding of the conflict. They lived it. The family lines and politics are complicated and stretch back generations. The US relied on same old sources.

https://twitter.com/AFP/status/1425582799952695301

Huge contracts awarded to unknown, sometimes brand new parties. They took advantage of cash society (no bank system for a while, handwritten receipts) and lived well in guest houses where they frequently disrespected local norms, customs. You don't win hearts & minds that way.

Building contracts were awarded to contractors from other countries, with no requirement to hire Afghans, redevelop craftsman skills, restore Afghan architecture. Kabul has a mix of Chinese, Pakistani, and other architecture, diminishing sense of place & pride of country.

We did not solidify women's role in civil society and governance, make it requirement for funding/support. Some progress, but under Taliban it will revert back quickly.

Elected officials from this country courted Taliban, like Rohrabacher (who cos played in Afghanistan) and Trump. All the while, those who knew Taliban knew this would never work. They will play you as long as it takes to regain power.

And, they ignored the role of Pakistan.
Where did the Talib originate? Who funded that? Wahhabi radicalism and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan was not confronted.

I worked years on humanitarian efforts w/ Afghan Americans & Afghans, helping with relief & secular schools attended by girls these (from 2003 relief delivery). Where are they now?

Yes, we threw a lot of money at the war, but we made major missteps.

Photo: Stephen Lynch, 2003