Finland´s assistance to Afghanistan

Kabul Liaison Office
Finland
5 February 2004




Finland has participated in the on-going Afghanistan reconstruction effort since the beginning. In the Tokyo Conference early 2002 assistance amounting to at least 30 million euros for 2002-2004 was promised. In 2002 the yearly target was exceeded by over 30 % and in 2003 total disbursements were also over 10 million euros. In addition Finland participates in the reconstruction with her contingent in the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Both these contributions are central to Finland´s strategy 2003-2007 concerning Afghanistan.

In 2002 roughly a third of Finland´s development assistance was given to the Government of Afghanistan through the established Funds. This support is mainly used for payment of salaries of civil servants, including police and army personnel. The larger than expected return of Afghans to their home country was supported by 4 million euros. With the remaining third Finland supported the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission, war victims and mine-clearing, reproductive health clinics and the first post-crisis environmental survey in Afghanistan.

Support to the central government continued in 2003, as well as to the political process stipulated in the Bonn Agreement. Finland continues to emphasize the need to enhance especially the situation of women which was the major theme for the Funds for Local Cooperation of the Kabul Liaison Office. Environment protection and combatting illicit drugs received some funding also in 2003.

A major challenge this year will be preparations for the elections foreseen for this summer which, together with the developing national security structures will enable furthering of stability in Afghanistan. It will also be important to assure that independent media and citizens´ organisations can freely contribute to a peaceful nation-building towards democracy in Afghanistan. Finland will keep her assistance at the promised level and increase it if possible.


For further information please e-mail to KSL-06@formin.fi