A Question of Dutch Politics - by Steven B.Wolinetz
NATO is struggling to maintain its commitment in Afghanistan. Thus far, Dutch, British, and Canadian troops have done most of the fighting. However, the Dutch mission in Uruzgan expires in August 2008; the Canadian mission in Kandahar in February 2009. Both countries are deciding whether to stay or leave.
Debate in Canada is highly charged. Prime Minister Stephen Harper wants all-party agreement on continuing, but the opposition Liberals have threatened to bring the government down when parliament reopens. Meanwhile, discussion in the Netherlands is muted. Questions about a referendum on the recent European Union treaty loom larger. Both countries demand that other nations play a larger role in Afghanistan, but staying or going depends not only on getting help, but also on domestic factors.
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