Afghanistan, 1 Year After Bonn

SESSION OF WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2003

Afghanistan, One Year After the Bonn Agreement

Karamanou (PSE). – Mr. President, I too had the unique experience of being in Afghanistan and seeing the situation firsthand. Mainly, I was able to witness the excellent work our staff are doing there, as you, Commissioner, have also pointed out, as well as the strong presence of the European Union. However, one year after Bonn, I believe there is a serious problem of coordination, both in terms of the provision and distribution of aid, and primarily in terms of the political approach being implemented. That is, the European Union follows one political line, supporting a strong central government in Afghanistan, while the United States follows a different approach, maintaining their familiar tactic of “divide and conquer” dating back to the era of the Taliban and the Mujahedeen. Today, they are strengthening the warlords they consider to be their allies. As Mr. Morillon and Mr. Sakellariou mentioned, unfortunately, the result of this divided Western policy is that entire regions are beyond the control of the central government, and this is precisely what has led to the resurgence in opium production, which accounted for 70% of the global production in 2002.

The situation of women certainly remains tragic in all areas. Blue ghosts still roam the streets of Kabul as few women dare to take off the burqa and risk their very lives. The Taliban may have lost power, but their spirit is everywhere. I am of the opinion that there can be no economic and social progress as long as the culture of violence, religious fanaticism and misogyny prevails in this country. 98% of the women are illiterate, financially dependent and 99% give birth without any medical assistance. This natural background is an ideal basis for the development of extreme movements such as the Taliban.

I believe that the Greek Presidency, Mr. President of the Council, can make a significant contribution by proposing the creation of a European fund specifically for women in Afghanistan, that is, a special line in the 2004 budget. This fund would finance the creation of infrastructure aimed at integrating women into public life. Furthermore, Mr. Commissioner, I would propose that we invite President Karzai to Strasbourg to speak before the plenary of the European Parliament.