Today the Netherlands began withdrawing its 1950 troops from Afghanistan. The Dutch contribution to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) was praised for their effectiveness and for pioneering “techniques which have since been held up as a model for other foreign forces in Afghanistan.” The four year mission cost the lives of 24 Dutch defence personnel, 140 were wounded and cost € 1.4 Billion to the Dutch State.

The Dutch pioneered the 3D Warfare Policy of Defence, Diplomacy and Development. This involved “fighting the Taliban while at the same time building close contacts with local tribal elders and setting up development programmes.”

The 3D Policy was described as “the benchmark for others” by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and “one of the most outstanding” by US President Barack Obama.

Today’s withdrawal is the result of intense debates earlier this year in the Dutch parliament, over extending the mission. Those debates ultimately brought down the coalition government in February and the  Dutch went to the polls to elect a new one in June. Negotiations over forming a coalition government are still taking place. A result is expected this week.

Back in June I asked in an opinion piece in the National Times on why a debate was not happening in Australia over our involvement. I received no answers. I am still waiting. Given that the Australian parties are now in campaigning for the federal election in twenty days, this question has not been discussed. I doubt it will be. Sadly, our politicians and the electorate are not as informed, engaged or as brave as the Dutch.

Photo: Courtesy of Ronald de Hommel.