Tribal Elders Play Pivotal Role in Afghan Politics

When it comes to difficult national policy issues, political decision making in Afghanistan is a complex mix of parliamentary democracy and tribal consultations. Current Loya Jirga, or gathering of national elders, is being held to advise the government on the terms of a bilateral security agreement with Washington. They no longer meet in a tent. But in Afghanistan, the gathering of tribal elders to consult on major decisions is a tradition with deep historical roots. “In Europe and...

© La Voix de l'Amérique - vendredi 22 novembre 2013