Part 2/9:
Lowenstein's journey led him first to Afghanistan, a country scarred by decades of conflict reliant on international aid. Despite the U.S. government spending more on civilian aid in Afghanistan than on the rebuilding of Europe after World War II, the results have been disheartening. Instead of fostering stability, this influx of funds has often strengthened insurgents, criminals, and corrupt officials. Lowenstein met with activists like Javid Nurani, who advocate for responsible management of Afghanistan's vast mineral wealth, asserting that the benefits of such resources should reach the nation's poorest communities rather than facilitate conflict or exploitation by corrupt elites.