Swat — it’s too early to declare victory - reviewed by Barbara Michael

Swat — it’s too early to declare victory

Dawn by Zahid Hussain | Jul. 27, 2009 (Special Report)

Police and civilian administration personnel have started returning to their posts and electricity supply has been restored. The life is slowly returning to normal in the biggest town of the Swat Valley which was a centre of fighting until a few weeks ago. But the situation is far from stable. People are still wary of the situation. Full Story »

Posted by Derek Hawkins - via NewsRack (Pakistan)

See All Reviews »

View

3.0

by Barbara Michael - Jul. 27, 2009

Reporter has access to both Taliban and army and assesses Swat from army's strategic point of view. Key point is humanitarian agencies' saying it's too soon to return but people went home anyway. Now the conflict plays out in their midst, and with their involvement. Gripping story that feels closer to the people than the competent WSJ piece.

Get the people around and ask them how they would make peace. What is needed? That is the question that no one is asking and so no one is challenged to find out. It's still about asking the combatants how they are doing. What are they going to say that makes a difference (assuming the difference is not about conflict)?