Local Voices

Just Security’s “Local Voices” section features perspectives and analysis from individuals directly affected by conflict, human rights abuses, and political crises around the world.

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336 Articles
Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Bert Koenders hosts the large international consultations with representatives of the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF) and the Anti ISIS coalition in the fight against terror In The Hague, January 11, 2016.

Behind the Scenes of the Global Counterterrorism Forum: A Bypass of Human Rights and UN Consensus?

It is time to take stock of what the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF) has become and acknowledge what are the critical inflection points for its future development.
Members of the Islamic State (IS) group stand across from their weapons lying on a table, following they surrender to Afghanistan's government in Jalalabad, capital of Nangarhar Province.

India and the Foreign Fighters Conundrum

India has left many of its nationals who fought with terrorist groups languishing in prison abroad. But it has legal options - and obligations - to bring these nationals home.…
An Afghan National Army (ANA) soldier stands next to a damaged helicopter which was shot down by the Taliban near the hydroelectric Kajaki Dam in Kajaki, northeast of Helmand Province.

Running Out of Time – Do Not Leave Afghan Allies Behind

An Afghan interpreter shares the terror of being targeted by the Taliban, and urges swift evacuations.
A students carries bags and luggage across the main gate as they leave as directed by authorities of the University of Lagos to halt the spread of Covid-19 on Campus in Yaba, Lagos, on July 15, 2021. Some students wear masks.

Living with Two Pandemics: COVID-19 Amid Insecurity in Nigeria

Vaccinations remain in single digits, even as multiple types of violence spread. Yet international aid stands at 20 percent of the need.
Designated Prime Minister Ariel Henry speaks during a ceremony at La Primature in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on July 20, 2021.

Wrong US Call — Haiti Needs a Credible Transitional Government

The Biden administration can still support a successful move to a credible civil society-brokered transitional government in several ways.
Supporters of Zhou Xiaoxuan, a feminist figure who rose to prominence during China’s #MeToo movement two years ago, display posters as they wait for Zhou outside the Haidian District Peoples Court in Beijing on December 2, 2020, in a sexual harassment case against one of China's best-known television hosts.

Feminist Foreign Policy: One Path Forward in U.S.-China Relations

The Biden-Harris administration can elevate the role of feminist organizations in China and the voices of women in both countries.
An Afghan woman trader is interviewed in her shop at the Kabul International AgFair in Kabul on November 1, 2013. Clothes hang behind her and jewelry sits on the table in front of them.

With No Choice But to Continue, Women’s Entrepreneurship Presses Ahead in Afghanistan

Afghan women entrepreneurs continue to launch businesses even in the face of dire security and economic conditions.
Police run through the streets with large guns, covered faces, helmets, and camouflage gear near the police station of Petion Ville after Haitian president Jovenel Moïse was murdered on July 08, 2021 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Bystanders take video or pictures with phones. Small fires burn in the street.

An Appeal to President Biden: Change Course on Haiti Now

The brazen assassination of serving President Moïse reinforces the need for the US to back Haitians in crafting their own future.

Girls’ Education Has Taken Root in Afghanistan

Education, particularly girls’ education, is the lever that will raise Afghanistan above extremism and into a peaceful and prosperous future.
US flag in front of Capitol building

America’s Democracy Moment

As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, it is crucial to recognize the gravity of the threats still facing US democracy.
Coalition Force service members set up a perimeter under the cover of darkness on the edge of Shurakian in Helmand province. The image is taken through a green night vision lens and multiple vehicles are shown.

Ending the Forever War, But Leaving a Legacy of Impunity in Afghanistan

The international military forces withdrawing from Afghanistan leave behind a legacy of impunity that threatens to undermine hopes for peace and justice in Afghanistan for years…
A U.S. Army serviceman sits at the tailgate of a helicopter carrying US Defence Secretary, after leaving the Resolute Support headquarters, in the Afghan capital Kabul on April 24, 2017. The city below is lit up in lights against the darkening sky.

New Just Security Series: Reflections on Afghanistan on the Eve of Withdrawal

A series of essays that considers the legacy of America’s longest war as well as what the future holds for Afghanistan.
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