The Ledger

Brief Summary

The Ledger by David Kilcullen and Greg Mills is a compelling examination of the West's failures in Afghanistan following the 9/11 attacks. The authors delve into the myriad military, diplomatic, political, and developmental missteps that contributed to the complex and ongoing situation in Afghanistan. Drawing from their extensive experience as advisers during the international mission and their backgrounds in counter-insurgency and stability operations, Kilcullen and Mills offer a critical analysis of the events that unfolded and the lessons that need to be learned for future peacebuilding missions around the world.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes of The Ledger is the concept of historical and strategic oversight. The book demonstrates how key signs of failure in Afghanistan were overlooked or disregarded due to political narratives that insisted on highlighting progress and mission success. Kilcullen and Mills argue that this inability to address underlying issues led to a rhetorical victory but a strategic blunder, ultimately leaving Afghanistan vulnerable to the very threats the intervention sought to eliminate.

Another significant topic is the interconnected nature of global conflicts and the enduring impact of international interventions. The authors assert that Afghanistan's geopolitical significance will not simply dissipate with the withdrawal of NATO forces, emphasizing the country's continuous connection to global networks established over the past two decades. They argue for the necessity of understanding these connections when planning future interventions to avoid repeating past mistakes.

Writing Style and Tone

The writing style of The Ledger is analytical and meticulous, befitting the authors' backgrounds in strategic advisory roles. Kilcullen and Mills write with clarity and precision, presenting a well-reasoned critique of international policy decisions. The tone is reflective yet urgent, aiming to convey the seriousness of the missteps in Afghanistan while underscoring the potential lessons to be gleaned from this historical episode.

Criticism

While The Ledger provides a thorough examination of the failures in Afghanistan, some readers may find the focus primarily on the Western perspective as a limitation. The analysis tends to highlight the strategic errors of international actors, which may overshadow the voices and experiences of the Afghan people themselves. Additionally, the book's heavy emphasis on military and diplomatic aspects might leave readers wishing for a broader exploration of socio-cultural factors influencing the conflict.