Publication

This paper argues that neglect of the opium economy in Afghanistan in coming years could be perilous, exacerbate problems, possibly lead to poorly thought-out knee-jerk reactions and/or simplistic responses which would only worsen the situation in country, and further damage the prospects for success of what will inevitably be a difficult and challenging process of transition. Drug issues, the paper argues, should be "mainstreamed"—which means factored in to broader political, security, economic and development strategies and programs.