evelopment challenges and to develop resilience against shocks and other setbacks. Sustainability is about building skills, knowledge, institutions, and incentives that can make development processes self-sustaining.
In the midst of terrible loss, Afghanistan has made real gains. The losses and gains only make sense if Afghanistan remains on the path of sustainable development. Economic and social development does not eliminate conflict. But it is nearly impossible to prevent conflict without real development. It is up to those who care about Afghanistan and the long-term interests of the international community to see that development in Afghanistan continues.
That must be on the agenda in Chicago—and in the halls of Congress in the months and years ahead.
Note: Dr. Arthur B. Keys, Jr., is founder, President, and CEO of International Relief & Development (IRD) of Arlington, VA.