POINT EDWARD, Ont. — Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he's not surprised by a new report that says Afghans feel less secure than four years ago.

Harper says security remains a pressing issue in the war-torn country and that's why Canadian troops are there.

He says Canada must do its part to ensure Afghanistan doesn't again become a failed state and threaten this country.

The study, released this week by humans rights organizations and aid groups, suggests the Afghan population feels increasingly threatened and sees their society slipping backward.

The reports says Afghans believe the country is racked by rising violence and corruption.

Since 2002, 112 Canadian soldiers have died as part of the Afghan mission.