During the 13th session of the Track II dialogue series, hosted by HAS, CIC at NYU and the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies on 28 September, participants from Afghanistan, the region, and around the world discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan.
It was noted that the situation in Afghanistan is yet to improve with the crises continuing despite minimal to no fighting. In order to get Afghanistan back on track, participants noted that stability and peace will require inclusivity of all political and demographic groups, as well as engagement and cooperation with the regional and international powers and organisations.
It was further highlighted that a clear divide in “opinions, concerns and approach” was evident between the West and regional actors with regards to engaging with the new Taliban government in Afghanistan. Participants warned that the split would likely grow in the instance that effective multilateral efforts to coordinate regional and international responses, led by the United Nations, are not undertaken.
The future of Afghanistan led by the Taliban remains an uncertain reality, but participants agreed that it is a shared responsibility of the Taliban and the international community to prevent a humanitarian disaster and economic collapse.