Afghanistan’s capital city of Kabul is one of the more complex phenomena in the country
today, to which complexity its immense size, fluid borders, and links with national politics and
dynamics all contribute. At the same time, the city is both distinct from and representative of
the provinces. Looking forward from the withdrawal of international troops, organizations,
and funding from Afghanistan, Kabul is a natural focal point for the country’s transition away
from foreign occupation and toward autonomous and effective self-governance.