Summary: “Civilianizing’ conflict resolution is a key concept in the west’s strategy in Afghanistan and the region. President Obama’s long-awaited review of the Afghanistan conflict proposed a ‘civilian surge’ for Afghanistan, and the enhanced partnership with Pakistan Act-better known as the Kerry-Lugar-Berman Bill – explicitly ties security aid to progress in emancipating Pakistan’s civilian government from military influence. A major aspect of this strategic reorientation has been a renewed focus on the role of the civilian police. This paper examines the challenges faced by a proposed police-based counter-insurgency strategy for Pakistan by placing them in the context of the limitations faced by the police…”—title page.