NATO’s virtual testimony of Afghanistan mission now online

The launch comes as the Heads of State and Government from NATO and ISAF partner nations are about to meet at the Wales Summit and discuss the operation for the last time before the completion of ISAF at the end of 2014. While recounting the key moments of Afghanistan’s recent history, the website aims to provide a balanced account of the ISAF mission, and pay tribute to the men and women, both Afghans and internationals, who have fought for Afghanistan’s future.

The website is built around the compelling stories of six individuals, whose lives have been inextricably linked to the rebuilding of Afghanistan: an 86-year-old American historian, who has  dedicated herself to Afghanistan since 1960s; an ISAF paratrooper who strove to finish his mission duties in Afghanistan, despite losing a leg; an award-winning Afghan female entrepreneur who is paving the way for women in Afghan society;  an Afghan conductor who has left the ease of western life to rehabilitate music after a decade of Taliban prohibition; an Afghan commando who has proudly taken on the fight for his country; and a popular Afghan TV presenter who, for millions of Afghans, embodies the modern Afghanistan of tomorrow.

Return to Hope also provides an in-depth look into the most critical issues and challenges that have marked the past 13 years, through nine thematic chapters:  Afghanistan’s Timeline, NATO in Afghanistan, Building up Afghan Forces, The Fight, The Human Cost, Rebuilding Afghanistan, Women’s Struggle, Discover Afghanistan and Looking Forward. In doing so, it features personal interviews with key actors of varying perspectives, as well as exclusive high definition videos and other info graphic material.

The website is available at the following link: www.ReturnToHope.com.