Book Launch and Review of "Kabul: Final Call"
On July 16, 2024, the Afghanistan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS) organized an event at the SOAS University of London to launch the book Kabul: Final Call: The True Story of the Withdrawal from Afghanistan, written by former British Ambassador to Afghanistan Sir Laurie Bristow. The event brought together experts and analysts to discuss Kabul's fall to the Taliban group and ways forward in Afghanistan.
Ms. Kate Clark, Co-Director of the Afghanistan Analysts Network, gave an introduction and highlighted the importance of Sir Bristow's first-hand account in understanding the complexities and challenges faced during the final days of the Western military presence in Afghanistan. Sir
Laurie Bristow provided a detailed overview of the withdrawal process and the rapid collapse of Afghan forces in the face of the Taliban's advance. Drawing from his direct experiences, he recounted the intense diplomatic efforts, the harrowing evacuations, and the heart-wrenching scenes that marked the end of a 20-year mission.
Following Sir Bristow's presentation, reflections were offered by a distinguished panel of experts:
- Dr. Orzala Nemat, Director of Development at the Development Research Group (DRG) and Research Associate at SOAS University of London, critically analyzed the withdrawal's socio-political ramifications.
- Professor Jonathan Goodhand, Director of the Centre for the Study of Illicit Economies, Violence & Development at SOAS, delved into the economic impacts of the Taliban takeover. He discussed how the collapse of legitimate governance structures has facilitated the expansion of illicit economies and the challenges this poses for regional stability.
- Aslam Javadi, Journalist and Chief Editor at Afghanistan International TV shared poignant stories from the ground, highlighting the plight of ordinary Afghans caught in the turmoil.
The event ended with an open discussion and Q&A session. During this time, attendees had a lively dialogue about the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the ways forward for Afghanistan. There were questions about the future of Afghanistan and its people under the rule of a terrorist regime, which are a cause for concern and require thoughtful consideration and action.