Afghans are faced with various post-2014 scenarios. While some observers claim an all-out civil war is imminent, others are optimistic about the outcome, noting that Afghanistan has been around, and will continue to be around long after the foreigners leave.

No one, however, denies the fact that the country will face serious challenges on several fronts and that, if appropriate action is not taken, the worst possible outcome could become a reality for Afghanistan.

Mr. Hekmat Karzai addressed some of the most important challenges facing Afghanistan, including the upcoming political–security–military transition. What course of action will Afghanistan need to take to ensure a successful transition? Will the contested Bilateral Security Agreement between Afghanistan and the United States be signed? What are the possible consequences of a ‘bad deal’ for Afghanistan?

In addition, Mr. Karzai spoke about his personal experience of the peace negotiations between the various parties, with a focus on a political settlement with the violent opposition.

Finally, he discussed the way forward for Afghanistan and the international community; whether Afghanistan can survive without the assistance of donors; and the potential likelihood of the country turning to other states in the region for assistance.

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