USIP began operating in Afghanistan in 2002, where it focused on strengthening the rule of law following the collapse of the Taliban regime in 2001. In 2008, the Institute based a full-time country director in Kabul to oversee what had become an expanded program.  The following year, USIP formally opened an office in Kabul, which by 2012 was staffed by a country director,  national and international program staff, and administrative/support staff  who play an indispensible role in providing the latest on the ground information regarding Afghanistan, and in supporting and administering USIP programs.