The ongoing flooding in Pakistan is one more devastating burden that must be carried by that country. On top of terrorism, political instability, and economic hardship, the Pakistani people and the state must rebuild the lives and livelihoods of tens of millions of people affected by the flood waters.
Among defense and Pakistan experts, there has been much discussion over the strategic implications of the floods on the country and NATO’s war effort in neighboring Afghanistan. The consensus is not optimistic. In responding to the disaster, Pakistan’s civilian government has been perceived as largely incapable of providing meaningful assistance, leaving the military as the last apparatus of the state (though largely independent of the state) with the ability to respond to the disaster. It is in fact charities affiliated with Islamist militant groups that are in one of the best position to help, and therefore win over, the Pakistani population. These charities were on the ground well before any major national or international response.
The war in Afghanistan is not going well. Protected by safe havens in Pakistan’s frontier provinces, the Taliban and other groups continue to undermine Afghan government after close to a decade of war against the United States and its allies. Despite new strategies and technologies, the blunt truth is that victory seems as far away as ever.
We cannot invade the frontier provinces; we cannot chase the Taliban across Pakistan’s hills in some Faulknerian quest. However, perhaps we can suffocate Islamist sympathies by helping Pakistan rebuild. Let us strengthen America’s efforts in Afghanistan by charging USAID to do in Pakistan what it does best: providing economic and humanitarian assistance. Even without considering the strategic implications, the disaster in Pakistan deserves a relief and rebuilding effort of Herculean proportions. Add the opportunity to strangle Islamist support through helping a country rebuild and there is a clear and present need for a sizable, sustained American relief effort.
Islamist charities, despite their current prestige do not have the resources for a long term, wide-scale effort. They can provide temporary food and shelter, but they cannot rebuild a country. We can. America has an opportunity to win Pakistani hearts and minds through helping reconstruct schools, roads, bridges, and hospitals. Together with NGO partners, we can provide some of the resources Pakistan will need to get back on its feet. After the flooding, the Islamist charities were there first, let us make sure we are there the most and last.
Christopher R. Albon is a political science Ph.D. specializing in armed conflict, public health, human security, and health diplomacy.
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