Losing Hearts And Minds

A survey of Afghans confirms that NATO is losing support, Afghans feel less safe, the Taliban have grown stronger and support for more troops is waning:

-the proportion of Afghans rating their security positively dipped to 55 percent from 72 percent in 2005

-32 percent said the U.S. and coalition forces are performing well, down from 68 percent in 2005. And fewer than half, 42 percent, have confidence in coalition forces to provide security in their areas.

-More also blame the country's current travails on the United States, NATO or Afghan government than on the Taliban (36 to 27 percent), but the Taliban is viewed as a greater threat for the future.

-Fewer now say the U.S. or NATO forces have a strong presence in their areas, 34 percent now compared with 57 percent in 2006.

-73% believe Ignatieff was right to support the budget

- Few are hoping for the promised increase in troop levels, however, 44 percent said they want a decrease in the number of foreign forces in the country; 18 percent want an increase.

-More blame U.S. and coalition forces for poor targeting than blame the Taliban for keeping assets among civilians (41 to 28 percent); 27 percent said both sides shared the blame.

-For the first time, more Afghans have a unfavorable impression of the United States(83% favorable in 2005, 47% now)

-Taliban presence-But 22 percent say it has at least some support in their area, and this soars to 57 percent in the Southwest overall, including 64 percent in its home base, Kandahar. That’s up sharply from 44percent in the Southwest last year, and up from 41 percent in Kandahar.

Complete pdf here.