Is an insurgent an insurgent?

[Entropy]

I see the problem the other way around.

The problem I am facing is that a COIN-strategy will not be implemented if the opposing force is not defined as an insurgent.

My challange is not describing, but defining. If the enemy is not an insurgent because he is not seeking to overthrow the state, what is he then when the result is the same?

Out of curiosity, what part of Afghanistan and what is the local tribal/ethnic makeup?

More info would be helpful - I'm assuming from what you've said that the locals want to retain autonomy.