US Must Learn from Afghanistan’s Corruption Crisis to Stem Illicit Activity in Free Trade Zones
As the United States promotes anticorruption foreign policy across the developing world, it is crucial that policymakers take concrete steps to curtail illicit activity in free trade zones like Dubai. The city-state’s limited regulation and rampant opportunity for money laundering have made it a hub for corruption.
Lessons from Afghanistan’s Corruption Crisis
The consequences of corruption were starkly evident in Afghanistan during the final years of the war. Afghan army promotions went to the most politically connected officers, military contracts were filled only if kickbacks were given, wounded soldiers sometimes needed to bribe medical personnel to receive treatment, and officials skimmed from pension funds for widows who had lost loved ones in battle.
The Damage Was Done
The damage was already done by the time US policymakers realized the gravity of the situation. Integrity-driven forces were isolated, unsupplied, and demoralized. The writing was on the wall.
Preventing Similar Disasters
To avoid similar disasters in the future, it is essential that US policymakers understand the effort, patience, resources, troops, and diligence required to improve governance in emerging governments. This requires a long-term commitment to developing government capacity, rather than rushing to support new administrations without sufficient oversight.
Role of Free Media and Financial Oversight
Free and open media can play a crucial role in exposing corruption and holding those accountable responsible. Additionally, exercising financial oversight and establishing guidelines to more thoroughly vet contractors are essential steps towards preventing illicit activity.
Learning from Mistakes and Promoting Transparency Worldwide
The United States must learn from its mistakes in Afghanistan and apply these lessons to other countries where it is involved in reconstruction efforts. By doing so, it can help stem the tide of corruption and promote transparency and accountability worldwide.
Sources
- Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR)
- Stockholm International Peace Research Institute
- Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
- International Monetary Fund
- US Institute for International Peace
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