Unconfortable loyalties: arguments and debates on the role of Spain in Afghanistan (2001-2009)

Abstract

The article deals with the role of  Spain in the international operation in Afghanistan from 2001, and the reasons to justify or criticize the mission. After reviewing the general context of the operation, the text analyses the positions of the three governments responsible for the mission. The discreet, modest presence of Spain in Afghanistan until 2008 didn’t prevented a cautious but continuous rise of its implication. From 2009 -the author argues-, in coincidence with Obama’s victory, there is a change of trend in the Spanish role towards the mission, with a more enthusiastic support.
The article also examines the evolution in the positions towards the operation both of the Spanish Parliamentary groups and the public opinion. The text concludes arguing that in a phase of increased Spanish commitments and aswering the request of support that the Spanish Government is asking to the citizenship, a process of reflexion and public debate -absent up to now- should be undertaken; it will allow to clarify positions and, ideally, to reach common agreements for future action.