It was predicted that 2009 would be a tough year for Afghanistan, and we have heard such media and official rhetoric before. What makes this year stand out is the number of significant events taking place, such as the presidential elections, the arrival of 21,000 American soldiers for deployment in the south and east of the country, and developments in Pakistan. Since 2008 a sense of urgency has taken hold in the media about the future of the military campaign in Afghanistan, and on the spot many conflicting statements are made. Despite the increased military commitment and the intensification of operations, instability and insecurity remain high.