Ten years into the war in Afghanistan, the United States and its coalition partners face a range of adversaries -- insurgent groups, narcotics-trafficking organizations, and criminal networks -- that have thrived on the erosion of the rule of law. As Washington determines the details of its future security partnership with Afghanistan, it must recognize that these threats are convergent and mutually reinforcing. None can be addressed in isolation. To be successful, any long-term American military and civilian presence in Afghanistan must focus principally on enabling Afghan leaders to expand the rule of law, curb corruption, and integrate military and law enforcement efforts.
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