Publication

This brief examines the potential for the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) of insurgents and other illegal armed groups in Afghanistan. Drawing on lessons from past DDR efforts in Afghanistan, the author suggests that comprehensive DDR is unlikely without a settlement that includes all armed groups in the country. He also suggests that the success of such a deal would depend on the reintegration of commanders and fighters and that this should probably take place before the process of disarmament.