The Essential Report Archive Read the latest report

Reasons for Afghanistan War

11 Oct 2010

Q. Here are some reasons which are given for continuing to have Australian involvement in the war in Afghanistan. For each one could you tell me whether you think that is a very good reason, a fairly good reason, or not really a good reason at all.

Very good reason Fairly good reason Not a good reason at all Don’t know
To fight Al Qaeda and terrorism 34% 33% 25% 8%
To maintain our strategic alliance with the US 11% 36% 45% 8%
To build democracy in Afghanistan 30% 35% 25% 9%
To further human rights in Afghanistan, such as the rights of women 43% 32% 17% 8%

Total very good reason Labor Liberal Greens
To fight Al Qaeda and terrorism 34% 35% 44% 11%
To maintain our strategic alliance with the US 11% 12% 14% 7%
To build democracy in Afghanistan 30% 34% 34% 16%
To further human rights in Afghanistan, such as the rights of women 43% 48% 45% 38%

Respondents believe the best reasons for continuing Australian involvement in Afghanistan are to further human rights such as the rights of women (43%) and to fight Al Qaeda and terrorism (34%).

Liberal/National voters are more inclined to nominate fighting Al Qaeda and terrorism (44%) while Labor voters are more likely to think furthering human rights in Afghanistan, such as the rights of women (48%) is a very good reason.

Error: