The Effects of Doctrine on International Security Assistance Force Operations

Abstract

Abstract : The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) currently leads the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. The primary role of ISAF is to support and assist the Government of Afghanistan in providing and maintaining a secure environment. The purpose of this operation is to facilitate the rebuilding of Afghanistan, the establishment of democratic structures, and the expansion of the central government's influence. While these political objectives are fairly clear, the concepts in which to achieve those objectives are in question. Now in its sixth year, ISAF faces many challenges including waning public support in many NATO member nations. As the leaders of NATO consider a new strategy, they are limited by their doctrine. Although doctrine is not usually associated with strategy, the fundamental principles of how a military force operates greatly affect the implementation of strategy. NATO should evaluate and change its doctrine in light of ISAF's challenges in Afghanistan in order to develop a feasible strategy and determine the role of NATO in future conflicts.