Canada became involved in Afghanistan in 2001 in response to 9/11, as part of an international coalition against al-Qaeda and the Taliban. Canadian forces first arrived in 2002 and NATO later assumed control of security in Kabul. Canada extended its commitment beyond initial plans, redeploying troops to Kandahar in 2006. Parliament approved further extension until 2011. Though Canada reduced aid in 2010, 950 troops remained to train Afghan forces until 2014. The war resulted in tens of thousands of civilian casualties and evolved into a complex counterinsurgency effort.

1. Canada’s role in Afghanistan www.ploughshares.ca .

2. OCTOBER 7, 2001: In response to the events of September 11, the United States launches Operation Enduring Freedom against al-Qaeda and its Taliban supporters. www.ploughshares.ca .

3. OCTOBER 8, 2001: “The coalition of nations that has come together to fight the threat of terrorism will act on a broad front. It includes not only military but humanitarian, financial, legislative, diplomatic and domestic security initiatives.” Art Eggleton, Defence Minister www.ploughshares.ca .

4. FEBRUARY 2002: First contingents of regular Canadian Forces arrive in Afghanistan www.ploughshares.ca .

5. AUGUST 2003: Amid increased violence, NATO assumes responsibility for security in Kabul, making Afghanistan the organization’s first commitment outside Europe. www.ploughshares.ca .

6. 2006: Rather than withdraw troops as planned, Canada extends its military commitment to Afghanistan by two years. Troops are redeployed to Kandahar. www.ploughshares.ca .

7. 2008: The Harper government’s motion to extend Canada’s mission to 2011 is approved by Parliament, having gained support from the Liberal opposition. www.ploughshares.ca .

8. 2009: U.S. President Barack Obama announces the deployment of another 30,000 U.S. troops to Afghanistan. www.ploughshares.ca .

9. NOVEMBER 17, 2010: Canada announces that 950 troops will remain in Afghanistan until 2014 to train Afghan forces. Meanwhile, Canadian aid to Afghanistan will be significantly reduced. www.ploughshares.ca .

10. Nearly 150,000 foreign troops from 47 countries are deployed in Afghanistan, including roughly 2,800 Canadian Forces personnel. www.ploughshares.ca .

12. Frequently use military methods that lack restraint or respect for civilians

13. Function without sufficient reconstruction or peacebuilding effortswww.ploughshares.ca .

14. The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people – the majority civilians – has evolved from a swift overthrowing of the Taliban into a complex counterinsurgency effort against Afghans who say they are trying to expel U.S.-led forces. www.ploughshares.ca .

15. To avoid a state of perpetual war, we must demand a comprehensive approach to security that includes Diplomatic efforts, Development work and aid, support for Democracy, efforts at Disarmament as well as Defence. To read more, visit www.ploughshares.ca .