Welcome to Afghan Desk

I’m a freelance writer and reporter living in Kabul, Afghanistan. I’d like to use this space to comment on major developments in the US-led war here, but also to bring you the context of these events. A lot happens in this country that doesn’t get reported, not because the MSM is somehow incapable, but because “news events” tend to be narrowly defined by editors. What often gets left out are the social and political dynamics that led to the news event happening in the first place. Again, I’m not blaming reporters and editors—especially the wonderful, infallible, extremely attractive editors who buy my stories—but there is only so much space in the paper for news from abroad.

To see where I’m coming from, check out some of my recent work. I’ve written about detainee abuse, the Afghan Border Patrol and training the Afghan National Army. This piece from the Village Voice might give you some idea on the direction I think the coalition is headed in this country.

So far, most of my stories have been based on the US military, because I’ve spent much of the last three months embedded with them. I’m living with civilians now, so expect more political and social-type stories from me in the future. I will still be doing some military reporting so those of you who are interested can still get your warface on.

Thanks for reading.