3rd Edition Jan 11

Purpose

To ensure that U.S. Army personnel have a relevant,

comprehensive guide to help enhance cultural

understanding; to use in capacity building and

counterinsurgency operations while deployed in

the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

About This Book

The Smart Book contains information designed to enhance Soldiers knowledge of Afghanistan, including history, politics, country data and statistics, and the military operational environment. The Smart Book concludes with an overview of the culture of Afghanistan including religion, identity, behavior, communication and negotiation techniques, an overview of ethnic groups, a regional breakdown outlining each province, a language guide, and cultural proverbs, expressions and superstitions.
3

Focus
We must demonstrate to the people and to the Taliban that Afghan, US and coalition forces are here to safeguard the Afghan people, and that we are in this to win.
- General David H. Petraeus Commander, ISAF Change of Command 5 July 2010 The Washington Post
4

Table of Contents
Topic History Political
Flag of Afghanistan Political Map Afghan Provinces and Districts Political Structure President of Afghanistan and Cabinet Provincial Governors Page

9 20
21 23 24 25 26 28

Country Data
Location and Bordering Countries
Comparative Area Social Statistics Economy Overview History of Education

30
31
32 33 34 39

Table of Contents
Topic Page

Military Operational Environment

Terrain and Major Lines of Communication by ISAF RC
International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Missions Afghan National Army Afghan National Police

40
41
42 44 46

Insurgency Overview Map

Taliban Intent Taliban Governance FATA NWFP of Pakistan Taliban Safe Haven Landmines Opium Poppy Cultivation

47
48 49 50 52 53 54

Culture and Communication

Holidays - 2011 Religion in Afghanistan Afghan Identity

61
63 65 71 6

Table of Contents
Topic Afghan Psyche and Behavior Page 74

Geert Hofstedes Five Dimensions of Culture

Communicating with Afghans Meetings and Negotiations Communications Things to Avoid

76
79 81 83

Dining With Afghans

Afghan Family Life Buzkashi Afghan Pastime

85
86 87

Ethnic Groups
Ethnolinquistic Composition Chart Pashtun Tajik Hazara Uzbek Nurestani Turkmen

88
89 90 94 96 98 99 100 7

Table of Contents
Topic
Kuchi (Nomadic) Baluch Other Ethnic Groups Breakdown by Climatic Region Southern and Western Regions Herat, Farah, Nimruz, Helmand, Kandahar Northern Region Faryab, Jowzjan, Sar-e-Pul, Balkh, Samangan, Baghlan, Kunduz, Badghis Northeastern Region Takhar, Panjshir, Nurestan, Badakhshan Eastern Region Konar, Nangarhar, Logar, Paktia, Khost, Paktika, Ghazni, Zabul, Laghman Central Region Ghor, Dycondi, Oruzgan, Wardak, Kabul, Kapisa, Parvan, Bamyan

Page
101 102 103 104 106 118 136

146
166

Language Guide
Cultural Proverbs, Expressions, and Idioms Afghan Superstitions TRADOC Culture Center Information

184
205 206 221 8

HISTORY
9

History Timeline
334-326 BCE: Alexander the Greats conquests
Establishes many trade centers in Afghanistan that include Kandahar and Herat

30-248 CE: Kushan Empire

The Kushans were great patrons of Buddhist art and culture; Bamiyan Buddha statues erected

642 1187 CE: Islamic Conquest of Afghanistan

Resulting in the conversion of Afghanistan to Islam from the pre-invasion practices of Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism and other belief systems

962 1186: Ghaznavid Dynasty

A Persian dynasty of Turkic origins centered in Ghazni, brought in language (Dari) and a rich Persian culture to Afghanistan

1219: Mongol Invasion

The Mongols devastated Afghanistan, killing the population of major city centers, causing the population to revert to an agrarian rural society

1747-1826: Durrani Empire

This was the beginning of the modern Afghan State and the Pashtun ruling class
10

Great Afghan Conquests

Anglo-Afghan Wars Alexander The Great

The Mongol Invasions 11

History Timeline
1839-1842: First Anglo-Afghan War
The start of the Great Game, which was a power struggle between Russia and Great Britain in an effort to win power and dominance in the region; Britain occupies Afghanistan and uses it as a buffer to protect British India from Russian territory

1878-1880: Second Anglo-Afghan War

Afghans attempt to end British control of the country

1893: British establish the Durand Line

This disputed border separating Afghanistan from British Indian territories would eventually lead to strained relationships between Afghanistan and the new state of Pakistan; Durand line designed with the defense of India in mind

1919: Third Anglo-Afghan War

After which Afghanistan gains full independence from Britain

1919 1929: The Kingdom of Afghanistan

King Amanullah moved to end his countrys long-standing isolation and develop diplomatic relationships with most major countries; slavery abolished in 1923

1973: Republic of Afghanistan

Monarchy abolished; establishment of a republic
12

Afghan-Soviet War
Soviet Losses: 14,553 Dead 53,753 Wounded Afghan Losses: 1 Million Afghans killed 5 Million fled country 2 Million IDPs
(Internally Displaced Persons) During the 1980s, one out of two refugees in the world was an Afghan

Soviet Occupation Dec 1979 Feb 1989

13

History Timeline
1978: Coup by communists backed directly by Soviet Union 1979: Soviets invade, install pro-Moscow government 1980s: Anti-Soviet jihad fought by the Mujahedeen 1989: Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan 1992: Last Communist regime falls; Mujahideen forces vie for power and factional infighting begins 1994: Civil war intensifies; 70% of country destroyed; Taliban rise to power 1996: Taliban capture Kabul and declare Islamic Emirate; Osama bin Laden relocates to Afghanistan 1996 2001: Era of Taliban governments Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan; based on the Talibans view of Sharia Law 1998: U.S. cruise missiles strike an Al Qaeda terrorist training complex in Afghanistan
14

History Timeline
Sep 2001: Northern Alliance leader Ahmad Shah Masood killed by Al Qaeda; who made Afghanistan their base and subsequently attacks World Trade Center and Pentagon Oct 2001: Coalition forces begin air and ground operations in Afghanistan, support to Northern Alliance Nov 2001: Northern Alliance captures Kabul Dec 2001: Taliban fall from power; Bonn Agreement establishes Afghan Interim Administration with Hamid Karzai elected as chairman
15

History Timeline
Jun 2002: Hamid Karzai becomes interim President 2002-2003: International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) forces responsible for Kabul Aug 2003: NATO assumes command of ISAF Jan 2004: NATO/ISAF assumes responsibility for Northern Afghanistan and begins gradual transition of responsibility from the US led coalition

16

Banned by the Taliban

Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Suppression of Vice (PVSV) Firecrackers Nail Polish Christmas Cards Lobster Music Hanging pictures in Home Beard Trimming Statues Wine/Alcohol Kite Flying Stuffed Animals Computers Sewing Catalogs Clapping During Sporting Events
Education for Women Satellite Dishes Movies Dancing Western Haircuts

Innovative form of Sharia combining Pashtun tribal codes

United States in Afghanistan

ANA Soldiers in Khost, 2007

Operation Mountain Fire, 2009

A 10th Mountain Soldier in Nuristan

Delivering humanitarian aid in Paktia, 2009

18

History Timeline
Jan 2004: New constitution introduced Oct 2004: Presidential elections, Karzai elected Oct 2006: NATO assumes responsibility for security across Afghanistan Jul 2007: Former King Zahir Shah dies Aug 2007: Opium production soars to a record high, according to UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Nov 2009: President Karzai sworn in for second term amid controversy and accusations of ballot stuffing Dec 2009: President Obama to increase troop strength in Afghanistan from 68,000 to 100,000 Jan 2010: Taliban introduce a Code of Conduct in an effort to reduce civilian casualties, soften their image, and win allies
19

POLITICAL
20

21

FLAG OF AFGHANISTAN
Black stands for the time period of 1839-1919 when the Afghans fought three wars of independence against the British Empire Red represents blood, sacrifice, and the continuous challenge of the people to overcome hardship Green is the color of Islam, symbolizes peace, and hope for the future. The writing on the flag emphasizes the importance of Islam by stating: There is no God but God and Mohammad is his prophet The mosque with the mihrab is from seal of Abdur Rahman Khan, added by Habibullah Khan (who ruled 1901-1919).
22

POLITICAL MAP

23

AFGHAN PROVINCES AND DISTRICTS

Afghanistans 34 provinces are divided into 397 districts in 2004 compared to 325 districts that existed prior to 1979. Currently, the Afghan Ministry of Interior (MoI) recognizes 398 districts. As Afghanistan continues to organize itself, this number may change over time.

24

POLITICAL STRUCTURE
Executive President is head of both state and
government Provincial governors for each of Afghanistans 34 provinces appointed by the president

Judicial Supreme Court

All justices (nine, including Chief Justice) appointed by the president and approved by the Wolesi Jirga Subordinate by high courts and appeals courts

Legislative National Assembly consists of two

houses: Lower- Wolesi Jirga (the House of the People) Responsibility for making and ratifying laws and approving the actions of the president Upper- Meshrano Jirga (the House of Elders) Advisory role with veto power
Afghan Parliament Building

Election Billboard, Kandahar

Inauguration, Hamid Karzai, 2004

25

President of Afghanistan and Cabinet

1st Vice President President Hamid Karzai National Security Advisor Governor, Central Bank

2nd Vice President Minister of Defense Senior Minister in the Cabinet

Director, National Directorate of Security

Ambassador to the US

Permanent Rep to the UN

Minister of Interior

Minister of Culture and Youth Affairs

Minister of Higher Education

Minister of Refugees

Minister of Agriculture

Minister of Economy

Minister of Justice

Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development

Minister of Counternarcotics

Minister of Hajj and Islamic Affairs

Minister of Work, Social Affairs, Martyrs, and Disabled

Minister of Transportation and Aviation

Minister of Borders and Tribal Affairs

Minister of Education

Minister of Mines

Minister of Urban Development

Minister of Commerce

Minister of Finance

Minister of Public Health

Minister of Water & Energy

Minister of Communications

Minister of Foreign Affairs

Minister of Public Works

Minister of Womens Affairs

26

Hamid Karzai President

Mohammad Fahim 1st Vice President

Karim Khalili 2nd Vice President

Abdul Raheem Wardak Minister of Defense

Zarar Ahmad Moqbel Counter Narcotics

Dr. Zalmai Rassoul Foreign Affairs Minister

Minister of Interior

Directorate of Security

27

Provincial Governors
Badakhshan Baz Mohammad Ahmadi

President Hamid Karzai

Badghis Mohammad Ashraf Nasseri

Baghlan Mohammed Akbar Barakzai

Balkh Atta Mohammad Noor

Bamiyan Habiba Sorabi

Daykundi Sultan Ali Rozgani

Farah Rohul Amin

Faryab Abdul Haq Shafaq

Ghazni Dr. Muhammad Osman Osmani

Ghor Baz Mohammad Ahmadi

Helmand Mohammad Gulab Mangal

Herat Ahmad Yusef Nuristani

Jowzjan Mohammad Hashim Zareh

Kabul Haji Din Mohammad

Kandahar Tooryalai Wesa

Kapisa Khoja Ghulam Ghous Abubaker

Khost Tahr Khan Sabari (Acting)

Kunar Syed Fazal Ullah Wahedi

Kunduz Mohammad Omar Sulaimoni

Laghman Lutfallah Mashal

Logar General Abdurrahman

Nangarhar Gul Agha Sherzai

Nimroz Ghulam Dastageer Azad

Nuristan Jamaluddin Badre

Paktia Juma Khan Hamdard

Paktika Abdul Quyum Katawazy

Panjshir Bahlul Bahij

Parwan Abdul Basir Salangi

Samangan Qazi Enayat Enayatullah

Sar-i Pol Sayed Iqbal Munib

Takhar Abdul Latif Ibrahimi

Uruzgan Asadullah Hamdam

Wardark Mohammad Halim Fidai

Zabul Del Bar Jan Arman

As of 7 JAN 10

Kunar Ghazni Syed Fazal Ullah Wahedi Dr. Osman Osmani

Kapisa Khoja Ghulam Ghous Abubaker

Badghis Mohammad Ashraf Nasseri

Balkh Atta Mohammad Noor

Bamiyan Habiba Sorabi

Kunar Syed Fazal Ullah Wahedi

Farah Rohul Amin

Nuristan Jamaluddin Badre

Kabul Dr. Zabi Mujaddydi

Paktia Juma Khan Hamdard

Badakhshan Baz Mohammad Ahmadi

Herat Ahmad Yusef Nuristani

Kandahar Tooryalai Wesa

Helmand Mohammad Gulab Mangal

Nangarhar Gul Agha Sherzai

Wardark Mohammad Halim Fidai

COUNTRY DATA

30

LOCATION AND BORDERING COUNTRIES

Location: South Central Asia, north and west of Pakistan, east of Iran
Border Countries: China Iran Pakistan Tajikistan Turkmenistan Uzbekistan
31

COMPARATIVE AREA

Area: 652,230 sq. km

(slightly smaller than Texas)

32

SOCIAL STATISTICS
Population: 28.396 Million (2009 est.) 0-14 years: 44.5% (male 7,664,670/female 7,300,446) 15-64 years: 53% (male 9,147,846/female 8,679,800) 65 years and over: 2.4% (male 394,572/female 422,603) (2009 est.) Total Fertility Rate: 6.53 children born/woman Under-5 Mortality: (m/f) 232/237 per 1000 Life Expectancy at Birth: Total population: 44.64 yrs Male: 44.47 yrs Female: 44.81 yrs (2009 est.) Literacy: Age 15 and over can read and write total pop.: 28.1% male: 43.1% female: 12.6% (2000 est.) Average education years total: 8 years male: 11 years female: 4 years (2004)

Percentage of population using improved drinking-water sources, 2006, total: 20%

GDP per capita: $700 (2008 est.) Labor force: 15 million (2004 est.) Unemployment Rate: 40% Urban Population: 24% of total population

33

ECONOMY OVERVIEW

Wheat and cereal production along with fruit and nuts have long been Afghanistan's traditional agricultural mainstays Afghanistan is poor, landlocked, and dependent on foreign aid There is a shortage of housing, clean water, electricity, medical care, and jobs Other challenges include corruption and a huge illicit opium trade Agriculture: 80%, Industry: 10%, Services: 10% (2004 est.) Afghanistan has a wealth of natural resources to include: natural gas, petroleum, oil, marble, gold, copper, chromate, talc, barites, sulfur, lead, zinc, iron ore, and salt Exploration indicates abundant deposits of precious and semi precious gemstones, including emerald, ruby, sapphire, garnet, lapis, kunzite, spinel, tourmaline, and peridot; most mining and exportation of these precious and semi precious gems are illegal. Illegal and unregulated deforestation has depleted much of the countrys timber industry and has left much of the once forested areas barren Afghan hand woven rugs are one of the more popular exports along with leather, furs, and hand crafted replica antiques Overall the economy of Afghanistan has improved significantly since 2002 due to the infusion of billions of US dollars and international aid Exchange rate: 1 $US = 50 Afghanis (AFs)
34

ECONOMY OVERVIEW CONT.

Afghanistans economy remains weak as economic production is insufficient to generate sufficient personal incomes, to sustain an effective public sector or to finance its wide-ranging imports of finished goods and services. In addition to the continuing problems of security, low employment, poor labor productivity, a lack of capital and poor capital productivity, a lack of a comprehensive set of policies to encourage entrepreneurship requires special attention to turn the tide to encouraging. The Afghan economy has historically remained mostly agricultural in spite of the fact the country is only 12% arable and less than 6% is cultivated; there is almost no use of modern farming techniques to include: the use of farm equipment, chemical fertilizer, or pesticides; (although Northern Afghanistan has established a couple of such facilities) irrigation is primitive and totally dependent on the winter snows and seasonal rainfall; fruit and nuts exports average around $115 million a year but could easily be ten times that amount with an appropriate investment. Although security has been a major hindrance to Afghanistans economic progress, the ability of the Afghan government to extend its reach throughout the country poses the biggest threat to future economic growth; illicit opium production and trade generates roughly 3 billion dollars a year and remains one of Kabuls major policy concerns.
35

ECONOMY OVERVIEW CONT.

Afghanistan also has significant deposits of copper, iron ore, niobium, cobalt, gold, molybdenum, silver and aluminum, as well as sources of fluorspar, beryllium, lithium and other resources, according to research compiled by Brinkleys task force. Lithium and fossil fuels are not included in the $1 trillion estimate.

36

AFGHANISTANS SUBSISTENCE ECONOMY

An ISAF unit in a relatively permissive area had a difficult time maneuvering large vehicles along a road because it was lined with fruit trees. To improve mobility, the unit had the trees cut down. Many people in the village had their livelihoods destroyed. IEDs began appearing along the road shortly thereafter.
We must demonstrate to the people and to the Taliban that Afghan, US and coalition forces are here to safeguard the Afghan people, and that we are in this to win. -General David H. Petraeus Commander, ISAF

37

Following Afghan Custom

In an Afghan village, in Paktia, U.S. troops mistakenly killed two pregnant women and three other innocent civilians. As a result a remarkable scene played out between an aggrieved father and the most senior special operations officer in the United States military. Vice Admiral William McRaven, of the Joint Special Operations Command, showed up with two sheep. The sheep were offered for sacrifice, as part of an Afghan custom for forgiveness. In the Afghan code followed by southeastern Afghans, offering two sheep is the equivalent of begging for forgiveness. "I came here today to send my condolences to you and to your family and to your friends. I also came today to ask your forgiveness for these terrible tragedies." The father accepted McRaven's apology by saying, Thank you very much. We will not keep anything in our heart against you.'"
38

HISTORY OF EDUCATION
Archeological artifacts, monuments and traditions point to the earlier existence of education in Afghanistan. Schools were a mixture of traditional Masjid schooling and Western education. King Amanullah sent the first group of women to Turkey to be educated in 1919. In 1921, the first girls school opened. Article 68 of the first constitution made elementary education compulsory. From 1927 to 1956 the number of elementary schools rose with enrollment reaching 121,000 students. These included co-ed elementary schools. Many high schools were also built in the 1950s and 1960s with the expertise and financial assistance of foreign countries, including the United States, France, and Germany. Dari and Pashtu were used as the medium of instruction. Kabul University opened in 1946 with many departments including Medicine, Law, Sciences, etc. The branch of the Faculty of Medicine in Jalalabad was promoted to a university. Currently, the Ministry of Education reports 5.4 million children (35% girls) are enrolled in schools. Despite efforts by the Taliban to burn and shut down schools, more Afghans attend school now than anytime in modern history. Following is the picture of the first Afghan girl in 2002. Photo: courtesy of Yasin Khosti

39

MILITARY OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT

40

TERRAIN & MAJOR LINES OF COMMUNICATIONS BY ISAF RC

41

International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Missions

RC North

Conduct security and stability operations Support the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF)

RC West

RC Capital

Disarm illegally armed groups

Facilitate ammunition depots managements Reconstruction and development

RC East

UNCLASSIFIED RC South

Humanitarian Assistance

Governance
Counter-narcotics
42

ISAF PRT LOCATIONS

Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) 26 PRTs, each commanded by a military officer (usually a LTC) Includes: -Military Component (Civil Affairs/Force Protection) -Civilian Police Advisors -Civilian representatives of US (or other national) government foreign agencies

Focus is on development, reconstruction and extending the reach of the central government into the provinces.

43

AFGHAN NATIONAL ARMY

Afghan National Army (ANA)
Strength: 97,000 troops (as of January 2010) Target Strength: 240,000 (within five years) Capacity: participates in 90% of ISAF operations and leads 62% of joint operations Well respected by the Afghan population

44

ANA Command Areas of Responsibility

209th Corps Capita Division

207th Corps

201st Corps

203rd Corps

205th Corps
45

AFGHAN NATIONAL POLICE

Afghan National Police (ANP) Strength: 94,000 (as of January 2010) Target Strength: 134,000 (within five years) Composition of the ANP - Afghan Uniformed Police - Afghan Border Police - Afghan National Civil Order Police - Afghan Counter-Narcotics Police Viewed as corrupt; are known to extort the local population; generally not trusted

46

INSURGENCY OVERVIEW

Taliban overarching goals:

Expel foreign forces from Afghanistan Undermine GIRoAs authority and perceptions of security Establish a Sunni state under Taliban Supreme Leader Mullah Omar 47

Afghan Taliban Intent

Taliban Code of Conduct published by Taliban leadership, mid July 2009 (Mullah Omars COIN guidance a population-centric strategy) This is our mission: to keep people and their property safe. Do not let those people that love money take our local peoples property and cause them problems. Keep good relationships with your friends and the local people, and do not let the enemy divide / separate you. Intentions We dont have to beat ISAF militarily, just outlast international will to remain in Afghanistan Continue population outreach and protection programs Continue successful asymmetric operations Expand lethal IED and high-profile attacks to deny ISAF freedom of movement Emphasize increasing violence in RC North and RC West Demonstrate Taliban reach and perceived control of all Afghanistan Make the main enemy the United States Directives Reiterated prohibitions on the following: Mistreating population Forcibly taking personal weapons Taking children to conduct jihad Punishment by maiming Forcing people to pay donations Searching homes Kidnapping people for money
48

Taliban Governance
Inner Shura committees:
Military Finance Ideology Administrative Political Propaganda Intelligence

TB Structure 2009
Inner Shura
Mullah Omar and ~18 members organized in committees

Inner Shura: Supreme ruling body; decisions based on consensus and within Omars guidance
Regional Shura / Committees: Direct and oversee policy; limited decision-making authority Provincial Shura: Enforces and implements directives; represents local concerns
* Decision delays as fighters require guidance from smaller core of TBSL decision-makers

Regional Shuras
Regional Commander

~15-20 members Ad hoc shuras or committees Although largely recreated, the Taliban senior structure in 2009 is more consolidated likely due to lack of freedom of movement and operational commander losses

Provincial Shuras / Governors

49

FATA NWFP of Pakistan

Federally Administrated Tribal Areas- FATA North-West Frontier Province- NWFP

50

FATA: Taliban Safe Haven

Made up of seven tribal agencies (Khyber, Kurram, Orazkai, Mohmand, Bajaur, North and South Waziristan) 3 million tribesmen of FATA are part of the 28 million Pashtuns in Pakistan (15 million Pashtuns in Afghanistan Development, literacy, and health facilities are low Per capita income US $500 Literacy rate: 17% (3% for females) Madaris (some built with Al Qaeda money) are a primary means of education and remain popular Tribes on both sides of border intermarry, trade, feud, celebrate with one another; adhere to Pashtunwali
51

TALIBAN SAFE HAVEN CONT.

FATA tribes more rigid and conservative due to a uniquely oppressive administrative system
Ruled directly by the Pakistani President whose agent is the Governor of the Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) Governor appoints political agents to each agency Agents adhere to the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR), a legacy of British colonialism FCR gave no constitutional, civic, or political rights to FATA tribesmen FATA traditionally off limits to journalists, NGOs, human rights organizations and political parties Mullahs and de facto religious parties have filled the void

Since the fall of the Taliban in neighboring Afghanistan, the area has been destabilized as Pakistani Intelligence (ISI) used FATA as a safe haven for Taliban reconstitution and later as a staging area for Taliban recruitment, training and operations in Afghanistan. 52

LANDMINES
Mines have killed and/or maimed about 150,000 Afghans since 1989 Every month 55-60 people fall victim to landmines 32 of 34 provinces affected Mined areas marked by signs and/or red painted rocks Adversely effects nomadic migratory tribes such as the Kuchi

Source: UNMACA

53

Opium Poppies in Afghanistan

54

OPIUM POPPY CULTIVATION

55

AFGHANISTANS OPIUM PROBLEM

Afghanistan now produces around 93% of the worlds opiates, more than twice the worlds demand; one province, Helmand, has recently produced 50% Many opium farmers work land owned by rich landowners who often dont live in the area or even the country; sometimes they prevent the farmers from growing anything else, under threat of eviction or worse Government poppy eradication attempts have often targeted farmers who are unable to pay bribes or are competing with poppy fields under the control of more powerful parties Extreme poppy eradication methods, such as spraying poppy fields, could drive farmers into the hands of the insurgents

56

Regional Heroin Flows From Afghanistan, 2008 (Source: UNODC)

57

REGIONAL OPIUM FACTS

Opium crop takes 4 months to mature and requires little water or care Ten kilograms of opium paste produces one kilogram of heroin In 1987 Pakistan produced 70% of the worlds heroin supply With US assistance, Pakistan nearly eradicated poppy cultivation Due to agricultural destruction (particularly of irrigation works) during the Soviet-Afghan and Afghan Civil Wars, opium production dramatically increased in Afghanistan in the 1990s Taliban taxed both the production (usher) and trafficking (zakat) of opium Taliban banned poppy cultivation in 2001 in order to increase prices Afghan farmers receive 20% of the revenue from drugs; traffickers receive 80% Roughly 170,000 Afghans (to include 30,000 women) are heroin addicts 3% of Irans population over the age of 15 are heroin addicts Nearly half of Irans 170,000 prisoners are held on drug related offenses Since 1990, some 3,000 Iranian security officials have been killed in battles against traffickers
58

OPIUM EXPORT ROUTES

59

OPIUM EXPORT ROUTES AND INSURGENCY

Note the proximity between insurgent presence and drug routes and markets. The southern provinces are particularly vulnerable to Taliban control; the opium growing and trafficking in these provinces has been difficult to eradicate.

60

CULTURE AND
COMMUNICATION
61

Victory of the Muslim Nation Parade in front of Mosque, Kabul

62

HOLIDAYS (dates for 2011)

15 Feb: Mawlud al-Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad) 21 Mar: Nawrose (Afghan New Year) 28 Apr: Victory of the Muslim Nation (Withdrawal of Soviet Forces) 01 May: Labor Day 19 Aug: National Day (Independent Sovereignty from Britain) 09 Sep: Masood Day, commemorating the assassination of Northern Alliance leader General Ahmad Shah Masood 30 Aug: Eid al-Fitr (After a month of fasting, Afghans visit and/or entertain their families, friends and give gifts) 6 Nov: Eid-al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice commemorates the Prophet Abrahams devotion to God) 5 Dec: Ashura (Shia day of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammads grandson Husein Ibn Ali at the Battle of Karbala in 680 C.E.) Note: The week prior to Eid al-Fitr is an appropriate time to provide performance or other types of bonuses to Afghan national employees such as interpreters/translators; dates for religious holidays are approximated; each year the holidays are adjusted to the lunar calendar63

AFGHANS CELEBRATING Nawrose

Nawrose (Afghan New Year)

64

Religion in Afghanistan
Sunni Muslim Shi'a Muslim 1% 19% Other

80%

Majority of Afghan Muslims are Sunni of the Hanafi School of thought (Hanafi is the oldest, largest, and most liberal of the four main schools of Sunni Islam) Shias in Afghanistan are Twelvers along with smaller numbers of Ismaillis; most are from the Hazara and Qizilbash groups Sufism, a mystical school of Islam, is practiced by many Afghan Sunni and Shia Muslims in a form unique to Afghanistan
65

Islam in Afghanistan can include many local superstitions such as the use of folk medicines and remedies

ISLAM
Abrahamic religion-shares roots with Judaism and Christianity Quran holy book infallible authority Five Pillars: Testimony of faith (Kalima orShahada), Prayer (Namaaz orSalat), Charity (Zakat), Fasting during month of Ramadan (Roasa or Sawm) and Pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) Other Beliefs: Faith (Eamaan or Iman), Oneness of God (Tawhid), Prophets, Angels, Judgment Day, the Books (Quran, Bible, Torah), Fate and Predestination Division between Sunni and Shia not as important as ethnic/tribal differences although it is changing for political gains. Pervasive part of daily life Prayer 5x/day, education, Friday mosque gatherings
66

ISLAM CONT.
Religious figures (mullahs) respected and influential The Mullah is a religious leader or teacher Most are qualified by their ability to quote the Holy Koran from memory Often times the Mullah retains the role of a leader who arbitrates local disputes based of Islamic principles, and teaches Islamic law and doctrine Literacy issues: misinterpretation; opportunity for perceived religious authorities to mislead those who cannot read.

67

DISTRIBUTION OF SHIA AND SUNNI

The Shia of Afghanistan, who are primarily Hazara, are located in the capital, and other major cities of the country. The center of the country is mountainous and harsh terrain that has provided security and seclusion from other groups that have threatened and/or discriminated against the Hazara in the past. Hazara today can hold government posts, obtain higher education, and participate in the military.

68

ETHNOLINGUISTIC GROUPS AND ISLAMIC SECTS

Note the Hazara, the minority Shia Muslim group, in the center. The remaining ethnic groups are predominantly Sunni Muslim. 69

Lashkar Gah Mosque, Helmand

Mosques in Afghanistan

Masjid (Mosque) Jami, Herat

Typical Village Mosque, Afghanistan

70

AFGHAN IDENTITY
Loyalty and Decision-Making
Least Important
Individual or Self
My name is Hamid Karzai

National Identity
I am an Afghan

Tribe or Sub Tribe

I belong to the Popalzai Tribe

Village, Valley
I am from Kandahar

Family Bloodline

Most Important

I am a descendant of Ahmed Shah Durrani, the first king of Afghanistan

Allegiance is given to family above all other social groupings; family is also the main source of an Afghans identity and is the primary factor in decision-making. Ethnic groups, tribes, and community define ones loyalty. Self is the least important consideration in such a collective society.
71

AMERICAN IDENTITY
Least Important
Nation Community/ Social Group

Family (Nuclear)

Self

Most Important
While Afghan society is in general collective and group-oriented, individualism and independence are characteristic of American culture and permeate most aspects of American society. Independence is of great value in America, and Americans place emphasis on individual liberties and personal freedoms. In general, in America, the individual represents himselves, and family ties usually carry less significance in America than they would in Afghanistan. The nuclear family, more often than the extended family, serves as the primary support for most individuals in America, but individuals are expected at some point in their early adult life to support themselves. Additionally, in America an individuals social network is an important factor which creates their identity. Americans share a strong sense of national 72 unity.

AFGHAN SHURA OR TRIBAL COUNSEL

It is important for the soldier to realize that Afghans are a tribal society and that individual Afghans (regardless of position) often times cannot make decisions for the tribe. The Shura is an older and highly successful form of democracy that has been used for centuries in Afghanistan to solve problems and reach agreement /consensus within the tribe. Attending these Shuras are an incredibly important way to meet with tribal leaders who can make decisions and implement change. But most importantly it is a great opportunity for soldiers to build relationships of trust and foster cooperation with Afghans. 73

AFGHAN PSYCHE AND BEHAVIOR

Influences and corresponding mindsets/behaviors Recent history of conflict: Suspicion, warrior mentality, basic survival,
uncertainty
Soviet Invasion and Mujahideen: Many Afghans refer to this time period as an
example of their strength; it is a source of pride and glory and also fueled ongoing suspicion of outside forces and their objectives.

Civil War: After the Soviet withdrawal, fighting amongst Afghan ethnic groups for control
of the country increased sectarianism , resulting in a significant decline in an already weak sense of nationalism.

Taliban: Due to the incredibly anarchic situation during the Afghan Civil War, the Taliban
were initially welcomed by the majority of hopeful Afghans. This sense of hope, however, turned into betrayal when the Taliban government turned inward, repressive, and was seen as detrimental to the people. This betrayal has resulted in a mindset of distrust towards government.

Current situation: With the defeat of the Taliban, Afghans expected improvements to
their lives through the assistance of the international community. Almost a decade after the Taliban, the standard of living has not measurably improved. As the national government , which is backed by the US and NATO partner countries, is increasingly seen as corrupt, the sense of disappointment has resulted in a population often ambivalent to all sides.
74

AFGHAN PSYCHE AND BEHAVIOR

Influences and corresponding mindsets/behaviors continued Religion: Inshaallah attitude
Fatalism: Religion is often used as a source of comfort in a situation where many Afghans
live in poverty; fatalism provides a way to cope with a lack of food, clean water, security, and healthcare.

Islam a source of guidance: Problems within a family or community are often resolved
by consulting religious texts or those who are familiar with the texts; a religious leader is often the source consulted due to the high rate of illiteracy.

Most are not extremist: The majority of Afghans are not extremist, but are religiously
conservative; extremism that does exist is a result of the Soviet-Afghan War and the importation of Al Qaeda ideology.

Traditional Afghan values: Hospitality, Honor, Family

Regardless of past and present events, most Afghans are committed to maintaining their traditional values and customs. Hospitality is a trademark of Afghan culture; regardless of their opinion of a person, they will be hospitable. Honor is a common Afghan value behind behaviors such as: saving face, not saying no, being hospitable and giving, and guarding the virtue of female family members. Family is the priority for most Afghans and is often the driving force behind many of their 75 actions. An Afghan family extends beyond husband and wife.

GEERT HOFSTEDES FIVE DIMENSIONS OF CULTURE

Low vs. High Power Distance Afghanistan is a high power society as members do not see themselves as equals but subject to those in power Individualism vs. Collectivism Falling under a tribe or ethnic group would define Afghans as a collective society; individuals answer to the tribe as a whole Masculine vs. Femininity Afghanistan is very much a masculine society where competition, assertiveness and power play a crucial role in every day life; women play a subordinate role in this society, unless educated. Low vs. High Uncertainty Avoidance A high uncertainty avoidance society prefers rules and structured activities like tribal laws and religious values to dictate daily life; superstitions can also play a role Long vs. Short Term Orientation Afghanistan is a short term oriented society where saving face, respect for tradition, and immediate stability are important
76

Application of the Five Dimensions of Culture

High Power Distance It is critical to identify the power broker of a community, whether it be the local mullah, tribal elder, politician, or businessman; directly dealing in a positive manner with those with power will increase the effectiveness of meetings and negotiations Collective Society For any decisions of significance, expect a consensus approach that may require patience on the part of Soldiers Masculine Society In Afghanistan, men and women have very distinct gender roles and norms of interaction that may not conform to Western values; consult your Rules of Interaction should any situations of concern arise High Uncertainty Avoidance Soldiers should attempt to provide full explanations, assurances, and demonstrate beneficial outcomes when introducing new concepts. It is also advisable to arrange meetings that do not disrupt daily religious and cultural rituals, such as prayer Short Term Orientation At the end of a meeting, do not expect command decisions to be made in a timely manner

77

Hofstedes Cultural Value Country Comparison

High Value

100 United States 80 60 40 Afghanistan Mexico Iraq

20
Low Value

Germany
South Korea PDI IDV MAS UAI LTO
78

PDI - Power Distance Index IDV - Individualism MAS - Masculinity UAI - Uncertainty Avoidance Index LTO - Long-Term Orientation 100 - being high value 0 no value

COMMUNICATING WITH AFGHANS

Greeting: Handshake or right hand over heart with slight nod Greeting in Pashtu or Dari is appreciated Men should not attempt to greet a woman unless the woman initiates the greeting It is preferable to greet the eldest or most senior first
Small Talk: Casual conversation is a must at the beginning of every encounter Consists of repeated inquiries about health, family, weather, crops Do not make specific inquiries about female family members Build rapport by sharing personal information (within the limits of your comfort and security) Accept offerings of food or tea (if you must decline, do so gracefully)

79

COMMUNICATING WITH AFGHANS CONT.

Possible lines of communication that may contribute to greater efficiency and maximum impact:
Through government authorities in the cities Through religious figures in villages

Providing gifts, such as school supplies, for children can help build rapport Avoid communicating preference for one ethnic group over another Respect for the elderly can be the first step towards communication; do not be afraid of a hug or a kiss on the cheeks.
80

MEETINGS AND NEGOTIATIONS

To foster rapport and willingness to cooperate: Do not expect to address your goals during the initial meetings The first few meetings should focus on the goals and interests of the Afghans Never make a promise that you cannot keep Try to compliment the leader and avoid negatively affecting his honor Try not to openly disagree with their goals in public; instead, suggest further discussion may be needed Do not openly express anger or shout, as such behavior is viewed as disrespectful and shows a lack of self control Greet in Dari and/or Pashtu at the start and end of meetings In negotiations, allow your counterpart to ask about your agenda, only allow for small pieces to be revealed (enough for your counterpart to feel comfortable and build his trust in you) 81

Combined Meeting with US and Afghan Security Forces

82

COMMUNICATING WITH AFGHANS - THINGS TO AVOID

Pointing at some one Sticking out the tongue Yelling at someone in front of others Spitting

Sitting with legs stretched in front of others, especially the elderly

Talking with hands in pockets or behind ones back Making offensive hand gestures Talking to females directly or inquiring about an Afghans wife or older female family members
83

How to use Hand Gestures for Training ANA as a tool of Communication The biggest challenge to train the Afghan national Army is the language barrier. By knowing basic numbers and commands, and with hand gestures the Afghan soldiers quickly get the needed assistance.

Source of photo: http://www.isaf.nato.int/article/news /marines-mentor-afghanmarksmen.html

84

DINING WITH AFGHANS

To be invited is an honor, and attending a meal is a powerful way to build rapport. Reciprocation is appreciated by Afghans. Do not expect a quick dinner, nor a mixed gender dining arrangement Try to take a small gift (no alcohol); the gift will not be opened in front of you Allow the host to seat you Most likely floor seating do not sit with legs stretched out in front of others particularly the elders. Food is often served and consumed from common plates; but not always (silverware may or may not be available) Try to avoid leaving excess food on your plate and be prepared for offers of 2nd and 3rd helpings
85

Afghan Family Life

In rural areas, life centers on the Qalaa or Qala(pronounced kala), a walled compound/fort occupied by an extended family
Extended family obligations, often supersede other responsibilities, including allegiance to spouse, job, and individual need Most marriages are arranged (between cousins) to reinforce alliances and/or ensure that property & wealth remain in family control Privacy & Protection from strangers or non-family members is a paramount concern --- however, privacy within the family is virtually unknown
86

Buzkashi - The Afghan National Sport

Buzkashi literally means goat grabbing in Dari. The origins of this game are believed to go back to the era of the Mongol conquest, when the Mongol riders would hunt, kill and pick up goats without dismounting from their horses. Purportedly, Afghan horseman learned to fight back and retook their animals from the Mongols who wanted to ride away with the livestock. Today buzkashi is an organized field game of ten to twelve players per team. The teams must transport the headless carcass of a calf or goat, weighing up to 60 kg, (130 lbs) the length of a football field and back, and then over a goal Line, without dropping it or allowing someone from the other team to wrestle it from them. In bigger cities, tournaments are played in stadiums. The rules forbid the use of knives or any direct physical attack of the person carrying the carcass. It is a rough sport that requires exceptional riding skills and well-trained horses. Buzkashi is typically played on special occasions, such as the Afghan New Year (Nawrose ), Eid, Indepdence Day and weddings, though typically women are not allowed to watch. 87

ETHNIC GROUPS
88

ETHNOLINGUISTIC COMPOSITION BY ISAF RC

89

PASHTUNS
Largest single Afghan ethnicity Pashtu primary language President Hamid Karzai is Pashtun Independent, fierce View themselves as rightful leaders of Afghanistan Ghilzai Pashtun tribe forms backbone of Taliban The term Afghan is historically synonymous with Pashtun, yet it includes all Afghans. Pashtun proverb: "I against my brother; my brother and I against my cousin; I, my brother, and my cousin against the stranger"

90

Pashtunwali The Way of the Pashtun

Pashtunwali is a term coined by anthropologists; while the term itself is unfamiliar to Pashtuns, it is an accurate description of an unwritten code or set of values important to their way of life Melmastia - Hospitality Badal - Justice/Revenge Nanawateh - Surrender Zemaka Defense of land/earth Nang Honor Namus - Honor of women Hewad Nation Panah -- Asylum

91

PASHTUNS AND ISLAM

One thing that is common to most Pashtuns is their commitment to Islam as both a value system and a social structure. Many times their strong belief in Islam is blended with Pashtun tribal tradition. Still, they do rely on the pillars of Islam to live their lives and often the Mullah takes on the role of a community leader and arbitrator. The mosque is the center of the community. Pashtuns also rely heavily on the code of conduct known as Pashtunwali. It is an unwritten law passed down from one generation to the next. It covers many aspects of life to include: self authority, equality, assembly or counsels, elders, respect for all people, remedies for grievances, clan relationships, care for the needy, need for protection, hospitality, and many other day to day ways in which one and the tribe are to behave. At times it may supersede Islam.
92

Pashtun Tribal Lineage

Saul
Al-Rashid Pathan

Pashtuns are divided into tribes and subdivided into sub-tribes or clans. Tribes usually join a tribal confederation, a significant number are named after a legendary ancestor. The Durrani are the most powerful and influential tribal confederation in Afghanistan. The Taliban were primarily from this tribe. The Ghilzai is another very powerful and influential tribe in southern Afghanistan.

Sarban

Bitan

Ghurghusht

Sharkhbun

Kharshbun Bibi Mato

Husayn Ghur

Durranis

Yusufzay

Bastard

Kakars

Safis

Shinwaris

Kasis

Ketrans Ghilzai Karran

Afridis

Bangash

Khataks

Mahsuds

Mangals

Waziris

TAJIK
2nd largest ethnic group (25 30% of population)

One of the Vice Presidents is a Tajik.

Refer to themselves as Farsiwan or speakers of Farsi/Dari

Formed the backbone of Northern Alliance against Taliban

Social organization by geography, not tribe Tied together by perceived threat of Pashtuns Ahmad Shah Masood (deceased), A Leader of the Northern Alliance, was Tajik Mostly Sunni Muslim, with few Shia
94

Ahmad Shah Masood

Tajik Militiaman

95

HAZARA

96

Hazara (Hazaara)
Mongolian descent Tribal and agrarian Distinct ethnic and religious group Vast majority Shia Muslim Historical target of discrimination by Sunni Tribes; mostly by Pashtuns Still perform the most menial jobs Often anti-government, anti-Pashtun Persecuted by Taliban Occasional feuds with nomadic Kuchi
97

UZBEK (UOSBEK)
Turkic-Mongol descent Located in Northern Afghanistan and Uzbekistan Uzbek and Dari speakers Most Sunni Muslim Introduced Buzkashi, Afghanistans national sport

98

NURESTANI
Located in NE Afghanistan Claim lineage to Alexander the Great and/or Quraysh tribe of Arabia (who rejected Islam); both stories believed to have originated in myth Previously named Kafirs infidels; they were forcibly converted to Islam by Amir Abdur Raham Khan in 1895 Converted to Islam late 19th century 15 tribes with numerous sub-groups 5 languages with several dialects Tepid relations with other Afghans Animosity towards Arabs Protective of distinctive culture Many have features like light eyes, hair
99

Turkic-speaking group Turkic-Mongol origin Tribal structure based on patrilineal; meaning father line Farmer-herdsmen Jewelry and carpet makers Considerable contributions to the Afghan economy Live in areas neighboring Turkmenistan

TURKMEN

100

KUCHI (NOMADS)
Nomadic herdsmen Primarily Pashtun and Baluch May seasonally relocate and/or cross-national borders High illiteracy rate Feud with settled populations over free grazing Number around 3 million Continue to fall victim to landmines emplaced during and after SovietAfghan War

101

BALUCH
Baluch: Iranian descent; speak Baluchi (Iranian language) Their traditional homeland is the Baluchistan Plateau Largely pastoral and desert dwellers; Sunni Muslim Baluchi Nationalism, which continues to this day, has resulted in several uprisings. Have a distinct cultural identity maintained by their isolated and nomadic life style Known for their beautiful natural colored camel hair rugs

Photo Source: Ahsan Ali

102

OTHER GROUPS
Pashai
Very little known about them characterized by language Pashai (Dardic language) Many consider themselves Pashtun often associated with or referred to as Kohistani Inhabit Nuristan, parts of Laghman, and N. Nangarhar Many in timber and livestock businesses

Kabuli (Kabul)
Elites Heterogeneous urban population of Kabul City Ethnic-neutral (i.e. mixed) Generations of intermarriages Speak Dari in addition to mother tongue Often secularly educated Familiar with/adopt Western-oriented outlook Many left capital during past three decades of war

Qizilbash
Imami Shia group Thought to be descendants of Persian mercenaries and administrators of Safavid empire; were influential in Afghan court and government due to higher levels of education and experience Appear to inhabit urban centers as professionals (doctors, teachers, engineers, lawyers)

Other Ethnic Groups

Gujjar: Nomadic; language not Indo-European; millennia old traditions; possibly related to Nuristanis Hindus: known for moneylending; persecuted under Taliban; many returning to Afghanistan Sikhs: known for craftsmanship; must carry knife; persecuted by Taliban; many returning Aimak: Perisan-speaking, nomadic/seminomadic, Mongolian/Iranian mix
103

Northeast North

Central

East South and West

Breakdown by Climatic Region

104

Provinces by Region
Southern and Western Regions:
Herat, Farah, Nimruz, Helmand, Kandahar

Eastern Region:
Konar, Nangarhar, Lowgar, Paktia, Khost, Paktika, Ghazni, Zabul, Laghman

Northern Region:
Faryab, Jowzjan, Sar-e-Pul, Balkh, Samangan, Baghlan, Kunduz, Badghis

Northeastern Region:
Takhar, Panjshir, Nurestan, Badakhshan

Central Region:
Ghor, Daykundi, Oruzgan, Wardak, Kabul, Kapisa, Parvan, Bamyan
105

SOUTHERN AND WESTERN REGIONS HERAT, FARAH, NIMRUZ, HELMAND, KANDAHAR

106

Southern and Western Regions

The Southern and Western climate generally covers the Herat, Farah, and Nimruz provinces in the West and the Helmand and Kandahar provinces in the South. This region has incredibly hot summers. Snow rarely falls in the southern provinces of Helmand and Kandahar during the winter, whereas the Western provinces will see some snow with little to no accumulation. Nimruz and Farah provinces have large, sandy deserts known locally as Registan or Sandy Land. The entire Southern region experiences high winds and sand storms from May September. The region has a Pashtun majority, followed by a concentration of Baluch in the southernmost areas. There are pockets of Tajik populations in the region, and a small amount of Hazaras and Aimaks or Aimqs. The security situation has been unstable, and insurgent groups have controlled districts in the region. Helmand province is of great significance as it is responsible for over 50% of the worlds opium production.
107

Western Afghanistan - Herat

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun Tajik Hazara

Languages: Pashtu Dari

108

Herat Province - Capital: Herat

Geography and Climate: Bounded by the Khorasan desert in the west, mountains in the east and north fertile tract that contains the districts of Herat, Ghoryan, Obe, and Karukh One of the countrys richest agricultural communities; agriculture, livestock, and carpet weaving Most of the opium production takes place in Shindand District where insurgent groups are very active High level of criminal activity throughout the province particularly rural areas Once a center of Persian poetry and philosophy,

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Significance:

109

Western Afghanistan Farah

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 80% Tajik - 14% Other - 6%

Languages: Dari - 50% Pashtu - 48%

110

Farah Province - Capital: Farah

Geography and Climate: Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Desert plains south of Farah Road; mountainous north and east of Farah City 6th largest opium producing province; 9% of arable land under opium poppy cultivation Opium poppy is mainly cultivated in the Bala Buldak and Bakwa districts Taliban pressure combined with government sponsored poppy eradication programs have pushed residents into arms of insurgency Tomb of Syed Muhammad Jaunpuri (who claimed to be the Mahdi) visited every year by many; home to many ruined castles, including Castle of Infidel
111

Significance:

Southern Afghanistan Nimruz (Neemrose)

Ethnic Groups: Baluch - 61% Pashtun - 27% Tajik Uzbek

Languages: Baluchi - 61% Pashtu - 27% Dari - 10% Uzbek - 10%

112

Nimruz Province - Capital: Zaranj

Geography and Climate: Economy: Desert; arid; nearly all of the province (95.3%) is made up of flat land According to USAID, less than a quarter of Nimruzs trade with Iran is legal and more than 70 % of the local population participates in smuggling activities Important transit point to Pakistan and Iran; fertile Khash Rod District prime opium growing area Narco-trafficker violence to support economic interests; corruption with Afghan Border Security personnel The ancient city of Zaranj was the capital of the Saffarid Empire

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

113

Southern Afghanistan Helmand

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 92% Baluch

Languages: Pashtu - 92% Baluchi Dari

114

Helmand Province - Capital: Lashkar Gah

Geography and Climate: Deserts in the south, hills in the north, and the fertile Helmand River Valley along the length of the province Opium cultivation and production; almost every family is involved in the drug trade; 94% of population lives in rural districts Produces 50% of worlds opium Security is extremely poor; serious infiltration of anti-government forces One of the early centers of Zoroastrianism; was also known as White India due to its populations of Brahmans and Buddhists
115

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Significance:

Southern Afghanistan Kandahar

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun

Languages: Pashtu - 98%

116

Kandahar Province - Capital: Kandahar City

Geography and Climate: Economy: More than four-fifths flat land; arid Agriculture; recently growing dependence on poppy cultivation, during the last century Kandahar produced most of the fresh and dried fruit for internal and export of Afghanistan. Statistically the second largest poppy producing province in the country Security situation remains volatile; insurgent presence active or at least present in all districts Home province of President Hamid Karzai, and the birthplace of the Taliban
117

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

NORTHERN REGION FARYAB, JOWZJAN, SAR-E-PUL, BALKH, SAMANGAN, BAGHLAN, KUNDUZ, BADGHIS (BADGHEES)

118

Northern Region
The northern climate area pertains to the provinces of Badghis(Badghees), Faryab, Jowzjan, Sar-e-Pul, Balkh, Samangan, Baghlan, and Kunduz. Winters here can be very cold with accumulating snowfall especially in the areas around the city of Mazar-e-Sharif in Balkh province. Also on this plain, the summers can reach temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Uzbeks are the ethnic majority in this region, followed by Tajiks and Hazaras; there are also pockets of Pashtuns and Turkmen. In recent years threat activity has been low, but some poppy cultivation and trafficking is ongoing (esp. in Sar-e-Pul). Mazar-e-Sharif is famous for its Blue Mosque, which receives hundreds of thousands of pilgrims each year at Nawrose (Afghan New Year).
119

Northwest Afghanistan Badghis (Badghees)

Ethnic Groups: Tajik - 62% Pashtun - 28% Uzbek - 5% Turkmen - 3%

Languages: Dari - 56% Pashtu - 40%

120

Badghis (Badghees) Province - Capital: Qala-I-Naw

Geography and Climate: Murghab River in the north and the Hari(Road) River in the south; bordered on the north by the Desert of the Sarakhs; extremely mountainous and remote Economy: Agriculture and animal husbandry Drug Production/Trafficking: Opium poppy cultivated mainly in the Ghormach, Murghab and Qadis districts; opium is not a major source of income for the province Security situation has deteriorated in the northern districts of Ghormach and Murghab; Pashtun population in the area generally sympathetic to the local Taliban Badghis = Lap of Wind; Pashtun tribes relocated to Badghees in late 19th century
121

Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

Northwestern Afghanistan Faryab (Faryaab)

Ethnic Groups: Uzbek - 54% Tajik - 27% Pashtun - 13% Turkmen

Language: Uzbeki Dari Pashtun

122

Faryab (Faryaab) Province - Capital: Maymana

Geography and Climate: Two thirds mountainous or semi mountainous Agriculture; industrial commodities; handicrafts - rugs and carpets Little poppy cultivation but one of the most important transit areas for drug trafficking, especially Bilchiragh, Gorziwan and Kohistan Improvised explosive device attacks against International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF) in Maimana City; violent demonstrations with some involvement of the locals Named after a town founded by Sassanids and later destroyed by invading Mongols in 1220 123

Economy:
Drug Production/Trafficking:

Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

Northwestern Afghanistan Jowzjan (Jowzjaan)

Ethnic Groups: Uzbek - 40% Turkmen - 29% Tajik - 12% Pashtun - 17%

Languages: Dari Uzbek Turkmen

124

Jowzjan (Jowzjaan) Province - Capital: Sheberghan

Geography and Climate: Economy: More than one quarter mountainous; two thirds of the area flat Agriculture

Drug Most local commanders involved in the Production/Trafficking: narcotics business Dangers/Concerns: Some unrest; factional clashes continue to cause instability; there are indications that Darzab district may serve as a base for Anti Government Elements (AGE) Traditional powerbase of Uzbek warlord Rashid Dostum

Significance:

125

Northwestern Afghanistan Sar-e Pol

Ethnic Groups: Uzbek Hazara Pashtun Tajik

Languages: Dari - 56% Uzbek - 19%

126

Sar-e-Pul Province - Capital: Sar-e Pol

Geography and Climate: Economy: 75% mountainous terrain,14% flat Agriculture; area largely undeveloped

Drug Poppy cultivation is ongoing; transit Production/Trafficking: area for drug trafficking Dangers/Concerns: Relatively calm and stable; some unresolved land disputes Named after Buddhist disciple Sariputta, who originated from the area

Significance:

127

Northwestern Afghanistan Balkh

Ethnic Groups: Tajik Pashtun Turkmen Uzbek

Languages: Dari - 50% Pashtu - 27% Turkmen - 12% Uzbek - 11%

128

Balkh Province - Capital: Mazar-e-Sharif (Shareef)

Geography and Climate: 50% mountainous, 50% flat

Economy:

Mazar-e-Sharif is a commercial and financial center; poppy production still a significant source of income. Has a large fertilizer company that is exporting the northern neighbors. Poppy and hashish cultivation in Balkh still significant; reportedly 40% of poppy cultivated land destroyed by government; remaining 60% is under control of local commanders and individuals
Criminality mostly tied to opium and hashish trafficking Located along the historic Silk Route, was the ancient center of Zoroastrianism and the Bactrian Empire
129

Drug Production/Trafficking:

Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

Northwestern Afghanistan Samangan (Samangaan)

Ethnic Groups: Majority Uzbek and Tajik Pashtun Hazara

Languages: Dari - 75% Uzbeki - 22%

130

Samangan Province - Capital: Aybak

Geography and Climate: Economy: Four fifths mountainous; 12% of the area flat. Agriculture

Drug Poppy eradication successful; few Production/Trafficking: remote areas do continue poppy growing Rui Do Ab and Dara-i-Suf districts still the two major drug transit areas Dangers/Concerns: Significance: Relatively calm and stable Was once the ancient Buddhist center where learning was encouraged
131

Northern Afghanistan Baghlan (Baghlaan)

Ethnic Groups: Tajik - 50% Pashtun - 20% Hazara - 15% Uzbek - 12% Tatar - 3%

Languages: Dari Uzbeki

132

Baghlan (Baghlaan) Province - Capital: Puli Khumri

Geography and Climate: Economy: Over half mountainous Lies on main route to Northern provinces. Agriculture

Drug Significant amounts of cultivation and Production/Trafficking: trafficking Dangers/Concerns: Significance: Opium cultivation remains major concern In 1st century CE was the site of a famous Zoroastrian fire temple; currently has the only functioning cement factory in Afghanistan 133

Northern Afghanistan Kunduz

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun Tajik Uzbek Hazara Turkmen

Languages: Pashtu Dari

134

Kunduz Province - Capital: Kunduz

Geography and Climate: flat; 12% mountainous; fertile land; route to access Tajikistan Agriculture, cotton, textile factory, vegetable oil production Very little production; part of Kabul-PulikhumriKunduz-Tajikistan drug route Illegally armed groups and warlords; community support for anti-government elements; Chahar Dar considered a high threat district On 4 September 2009 German ISAF elements called an air strike against two NATO fuel trucks that had been captured by insurgents; as a result of the US aircraft attack, more than 90 people were killed, among them at least 40 civilians, who had gathered to collect fuel.
135

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking:

Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

NORTHEASTERN REGION TAKHAR, PANJSHIR, NURESTAN, BADAKHSHAN

TAKHAAR, PAJSHAER, NURESTAAN, BADAKHSHAAN

136

Northeastern Region:
The northeastern border climate is made up of the highest elevations in the Hindu Kush mountain range which leads up to the Himalayan Mountains. During the winter months, these mountains are impassable and during the summer, heavy poppy trafficking is pervasive. The provinces covered in this region are Takhar, Panjshir, Nurestan, and Badakhshan. With the exception of Nurestan, which is almost 100% Nurestani, the region has an ethnic majority of Tajiks; Uzbeks are the next largest group, and there are a few Hazara and Pashtun populations. Although the Panjshir and Badakhshan provinces never came under Taliban control, there is some Taliban activity in the region. Nurestan is an area of concern as Taliban have been able to operate openly in the region.

137

Northeast Afghanistan Takhar (Takhaar)

Ethnic Groups: Majority: Uzbeks and Tajiks Minorities: Pashtuns and Hazara

Languages: Dari Uzbek Pashtun

138

Takhar(Takhaar) Province - Capital: Taloqan (Taloqaan)

Geography and Climate: Economy: Border with Tajikistan; more than half mountainous; one third flat terrain Salt mines one of countrys major mineral resources; agriculture, trade and services Used by drug traffickers as a secure passage to Tajikistan Internal disputes between local commanders, tribal leaders, and drug traffickers Location where Ahmad Shah Masood, the Tajik Northern Alliance commander, was assassinated
139

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

Northeastern Afghanistan Panjshir (Panjshaer)

Ethnic Groups: Mostly Tajik Some Hazara (Small number of Pashtun, Nurestani, Pashai)

Languages: Dari (Small pockets of Pashtu speakers)

140

Panjshir (Panjshaer) Province - Capital: Bazarak (Baazaarak) (formerly part of Kapisa Province)
Geography and Climate: Panjshir valley; mountainous, high peaks; streams, greenery Non farm-related labor, agriculture, trade and services. A Afghanistan local sweet, Talkhaan which is a mixture of blackberries and walnuts Virtually poppy-free Relatively secure; some unexploded ordinances Panjshir = Five Lions; Tomb of Shaheed (martyr) Ahmad Shah Masood, commander of Northern Alliance; anti-Taliban area

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Significance:

141

Northwestern Afghanistan Nurestan (Nurestaan)

Ethnic Groups: Nurestani - 99%

Languages: Nurestani - 78% Peshayee - 15%

142

Nurestan Province - Capital: Parun

Geography and Climate: Economy: 99% mountainous; most impassable regions Agriculture, livestock, day labor; trade across border with Pakistan; one of poorest regions

Drug Production/Trafficking: Land unsuitable for poppy cultivation; some drug trafficking across border Dangers/Concerns: Poor security/some parts under Taliban control lack of infrastructure; local militias stronger than government Until the 1890s, the region was known as Kafiristan (Persian for "Land of the non-believers") because its inhabitants were non-Muslims

Significance:

143

Northeastern Afghanistan Badakshan (Badakhshaan)

Ethnic Groups: Majority Tajik

Languages: Dari

144

Badakhshan (Badakhshaan) Province - Capital: Fayzabad (Fayzabaad)

Geography and Climate: Between Hindu Kush and Amu Darya; only province to border China via Wakhan Corridor; prone to earthquakes and seasonal flooding Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Agriculture; rich in natural minerals including Lapis Lazuli, the best in the world Believed to be a major drug smuggling route Insufficient protection of the Tajik - Afghan border

Significance:

Rich in minerals; has attracted China who has helped with reconstruction of roads and infrastructure
145

EASTERN REGION
KONAR, NANGARHAR (NANGARHAAR), LOWGAR, PAKTIA, KHOST, PAKTIKA, GHAZNI, ZABUL (ZAABUL), LAGHMAN (LAGHMAAN)

146

Eastern Region
The eastern region is mountainous. During the summer, the temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and during the winter, the mountains are impassable due to snowfall. With many narrow canyons, valleys, and mountain passes, this region provides treacherous terrain that is perfect for guerilla warfare operations. The Pashtuns are the ethnic majority in this region, with much smaller numbers of Tajiks and Hazaras. The security of the region is threatened by its insecure border with Pakistan, which allows for free migration in both directions and smuggling of the regions natural resources. The region is also known as an insurgent hideout, especially in the province of Konar. The provinces covered in section include Konar, Nangarhar, Lowgar, Paktia, Khost, Paktika, Ghazni, Laghman, and Zabul.
147

Eastern Afghanistan Konar

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 95% Nurestani - 5% Kuchi (seasonal)

Languages: Pashtu

148

Konar Province - Capital: Asadabad Asadaabaad

Geography and Climate: Embedded in Hindu Kush; heavily mountainous and forested; Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Significance: Agriculture, livestock, day labor; some timber (smuggling to and from Pakistan)
Trafficking of heroin and opium into the Federally Administered Tribal Areas of Pakistan

Established base of insurgent groups; possible Al Qaeda sanctuary Looting of national assets (timber and gems) is a destabilizing factor for province; with some of the largest forests in Afghanistan, trees are now rapidly being cut down illegally and smuggled to Pakistan
149

Eastern Afghanistan Nangarhar (Nangarhaar)

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 90% Pashayee - 7% Tajiks Gujar

Languages: Pashtu - 92% Dari - 8%

150

Nangahar (Nangarhaar) Province - Capital: Jalalabad (Jalalaabaad)

Geography and Climate: More than mountainous; 2/5 flat land
Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns:
agriculture; trade and services, citrus fruits Opium and cannabis production prevalent; once center of poppy production (95% decrease in 2005) Illegally armed groups, anti-government elements active and heavily armed; migration from and to Pakistan Jalalabad is considered one of the most important cities of the Pashtun culture; the mausoleum of both Amir Habibullah and King Amanullah is located in Jalalabad, and the great Pashtun leader Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Paachaa Khan) is also buried there.
151

Significance:

Eastern Afghanistan Lowgar

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 60% Tajik/Hazara 40%

Languages: Pashtu - 60% Dari - 40%

152

Lowgar Province - Capital: Pol-e-Alam

Geography and Climate: Flat river valley (Lowgar River); rugged mountains in East, South, and Southwest; Tera Pass a critical defensive chokepoint Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Agriculture, livestock; Ainak copper mine, Mohammad Agha mine; rich with minerals Consistently poppy-free between 2002 - 2009 Assessed as medium threat; some antipersonnel mines; Taliban assassinated governor in 2008 During Soviet-Afghan War, approximately 350 Soviet tanks destroyed in the Tera Pass by the Mujahideen
153

Significance:

Eastern Afghanistan Paktia

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 91% Tajik - 9%

Languages: Pashtu

154

Paktia Province - Capital: Gardez

Geography and Climate: Economy: Seta Kandow (KG) Pass in Zadran Arc is the premier mountain range in Paktia. Forestry and the mining of chromites and natural gas; grains, crops and apple, walnut, and apricot orchards

Drug Significant precursor trafficking occurs Production/Trafficking: along the eastern belt of Paktia Dangers/Concerns: Security situation remains volatile; insurgent presence active or at least present in all Districts KG Pass is the historical home to antigovernment elements and Haqqani Network; Shah-i Kot Valley in Zormat District, a mountainous region historically used as a base for renegades

Significance:

155

Eastern Afghanistan Khost

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 99%

Languages: Pashtu

156

Khost Province - Capital: Khost

Geography and Climate: Dominated by the Khost Valley and the mountains that surround it; natural forests run along the border Agriculture and animal husbandry

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking:

Heroin and opium are trafficked into the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) region of Pakistan where insurgent groups linked to the Taliban and Al-Qaeda dominate
Security situation remains volatile with an insurgent presence active or at least present in all districts Once part of Paktia province; Khost City the first to be liberated from communist rule during Soviet occupation
157

Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

Eastern Afghanistan Paktika

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun

Languages: Pashtu

158

Paktika Province - Capital: Sharan

Geography and Climate: Economy: Arid; high desert; 32% mountainous Agriculture and animal husbandry; overall literacy rate in province is extremely low at just 2%

Drug Production/Trafficking: Heroin and opium are trafficked into the FATA region of Pakistan Dangers/Concerns: Significance: Security situation remains volatile with an insurgent presence active or at least present in all districts Once part of Paktia province, was the site of many battles during Soviet occupation

159

Eastern Afghanistan Ghazni

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 48.9% Hazara - 45.9% Tajik - 4.7% Kuchis (summer)

Languages: Pashtu - 51% Dari - 47%

160

Ghazni Province - Capital: Ghazni

Geography and Climate: Economy: Arid; level towards the Southeast, more mountainous and wet toward the Northwest Agriculture, animal husbandry and day labor

Drug Poppy-free Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns: Security situation remains volatile with an insurgent presence active or at least present in all Pashtun districts; Hazara areas low threat Was once the center of the Ghaznavid Empire, which ruled much of India, Central Asia, and Persia
161

Significance:

Eastern Afghanistan Laghman (Laghmaan)

Ethnic Groups: Pashtuns - 58% Pashai Nurestani

Languages: Pashtu - 58% Peshayee - 33% Dari - 9%

162

Laghman (laghmaan) Province - Capital: Mihtarlam (Mihterlaam)

Geography and Climate: Economy: 55.4% mountainous; 40.9% flat Trade and services, non-farm labor, agriculture and livestock; rich with precious stones and minerals

Drug Production/Trafficking:
Dangers/Concerns:

Some poppy growing; smuggling center for heroin

Large number of illegally armed groups; active anti-government elements Once the center of Mahayanist Buddhism with several monasteries

Significance:

163

Zabul Province - Capital:Qalat (Qalaat)

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun Kuchi (seasonal)

Languages: Pashtu - 80% Dari - 20%

164

Zabul Province - Capital:Qalat (Qalaat)

Geography and Climate: Remote and sparsely populated; 41% mountainous; arid; severe drought has reduced fertility of the land Agricultural communities established along Arghandab and Tarnak rivers; animal husbandry

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking: Some relatively small scale opium cultivation; widespread trafficking along Ring Road and easy overland access to Pakistan
Dangers/Concerns: Security situation remains volatile with an insurgent presence active or at least present in all districts Pashtun residents deeply conservative; infrastructure is largely undeveloped; only Qalat City has electricity and only Ring Road paved
165

Significance:

CENTRAL REGION GHOR, DAYKUNDI, ORUZGAN (ORUZGAAN), WARDAK, KABUL, KAPISA KAPISAA, PARVAN (PARWAAN), BAMYAN BAMYAAN)

166

Central Region
The central climate area is generally covered by the Hindu Kush Mountains. Summers can reach temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit and winters will be bitterly cold with very heavy snowfall. The provinces in this area are Ghor, Daykundi, Oruzgan, Wardak, Kabul, Kapisa, Parvan and Bamyan. This area is considered to be a high desert with terrain similar to southern Arizona and the mountains of central Nevada and eastern California. The area hosts a mix of Pashtun, Tajik, and Hazara, with several other groups in smaller numbers. As the physical center of the country, the region has been influenced by several cultural movements and the Silk Road. The Buddhist statues of Bamyan, destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, are a wellknown artifact of the regions rich cultural past. The security of the region has deteriorated, especially in Oruzgan and Wardak.
167

Central Afghanistan Ghor

Ethnic Groups: Tajik - 58% Hazara - 39% Pashtun - 3%

Languages: Dari - 97% Pashtu - 3%

168

Ghor Province - Capital: Chaghcharan (Chaghcharaan)

Geography and Climate: Extremely mountainous and characterized by small, isolated villages, which are generally inaccessible during the winter months Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: Agriculture and animal husbandry Was cultivating opium poppy but between 2007 and 2009 had become poppy-free

Dangers/Concerns:
Significance:

Lowest threat province in region

The Minaret of Jam, the second tallest minaret in the world, built in 12th century , discovered in 1943 and is a national treasure, is located in a remote valley on the banks of the Hari Rud River 169

Central Afghanistan Daykundi

Ethnic Groups: Hazara - 86% Pashtun - 8.5% Baluch - 3.5%

Languages: Dari - 91% Pashtu - 13%

170

Daykundi Province - Capital: Nili (Neelee)

Geography and Climate: Economy: Drug Production/Trafficking: 90% of terrain mountainous Agriculture; 99% of the population of Daykundi lives in rural districts while 1% live in urban areas Primary transit route for traffickers who transport drugs from the north of Bamyan to the south of Daykundi to provinces like Helmand and Oruzgan Gizab (Gizaab) District recently under Taliban control (Pashtun-populated Gizab annexed to Oruzgan province in 2006, but change not shown on maps) Part of ethnic region of Hazarajat; Nili first city to have female mayor (Ms. Azra Jafari)

Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

171

Central Afghanistan Oruzgan (Oruzgaan)

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun Hazara Kuchi (seasonal)

Languages: Pashtu - 90% Dari

172

Oruzgan (Oruzgaan) Province - Capital: Tirin Kot (Teenreen Koat)

Geography and Climate:

Around three quarters of the province (72%) is mountainous or semi mountainous terrain Agriculture (grains, apricots, and almonds) was the primary source of livelihood that used to form most of the dry fruit export of Afghanistan, but many farmers have switched to poppy production Opium is now the provinces main source of revenue Security situation remains volatile with an insurgent presence active or at least present in all districts Well-known as the birthplace of Taliban leader Mullah Omar

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking: Dangers/Concerns:

Significance:

173

Central Afghanistan Wardak

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 70% Hazara/Tajik 27%

Languages: Majority Pasthu Some Dari

174

Wardak Province - Capital: Maidan (Maidaan) Shar (Shaar)

Geography and Climate: Economy: 4/5 mountainous; Southern outcrops of Hindus Kush Trade, agriculture and livestock; stone quarrying; marble factory; marble mines inactive After five years of continuous cultivation, the province has regained its original poppy-free status as of 2008

Drug Production/Trafficking:

Dangers/Concerns:

Increasing physical presence of Taliban; lack of confidence in government; land disputes between Hazara and Kuchi During the Soviet Afghan war, much of the population emigrated from the province to Iran (Hazara) and Pakistan (Pashtun), and many have returned since the fall of the Taliban, putting a strain on the already damaged infrastructure.
175

Significance:

Central Afghanistan Kabul

Ethnic Groups: Pashtun - 60% Tajik Hazara Uzbek Turkmen Baluch Sikh Hindu

Languages: Pashtu Dari

176

Kabul Province - Capital: Kabul City (Capital of Afghanistan)

Geography and Climate: Valley at crossroad; Kabul River; Arid, semi-arid steppe; low precipitation, dry and dusty Industrial; international trade partners spy services

Economy:

from many countries

Drug Production/Trafficking: Drug route connecting South to North; Route to Pakistan; Small cultivation in Surobi

Dangers/Concerns:
Significance:

As capital, security imperative; target of high profile and complex suicide attacks
Was center of Zoroastrianism; occupied by many forces to include: British, Soviets, Taliban; destroyed by civil war after Soviet departure

177

Central Afghanistan Kapisa (Kapisaa)

Ethnic Groups: Tajik - 30% Pashtun - 27% Pashai - 17% Nurestani

Languages: Dari Some Pashtu

178

Kapisa ( Kaapeesaa)Province - Capital: Mahmud Raqi (Raaqee)

Geography and Climate: Economy: Partially surrounded by mountains and rivers Agriculture; talc mine; Mela trade day once/week

Drug At one time a huge location of poppy Production/Trafficking: cultivation, but has become poppyfree Dangers/Concerns: Satisfactory security Significance: Destroyed by Cyrus the Great; part of Buddhist kingdom; known for its wine
179

Central Afghanistan Parvan (Pawaan)

Ethnic Groups: Tajik/Hazara 71% Pashtun - 29%

Languages: Dari - 70% Pashtu - 30%

180

Parvan (Parwaan) Province - Capital: Charikar (Chaarikaar)

Geography and Climate: 2/3 mountainous; 1/4 flat land; Pawaan River; main route from Kabul to North; Salang Road

Economy:
Drug Production/Trafficking:

Industrial crops; herbs

Regained its original opium poppy free status in 2008 (and continued to be poppy free in 2009) after five years of continuous cultivation between 2003 and 2007

Dangers/Concerns: Significance:

Relatively secure Long history of battles; 1840 defeat British; resisted Soviets and Taliban
181

Central Afghanistan Bamyan (Bamyaan)

Ethnic Groups: Majority Hazara Tajik - 15% Tatars

Languages: Dari - 96% Some Pashtu

182

Bamyan Province - Capital: Bamyan (Bamyaan)

Geography and Climate: Dry mountainous terrain; several rivers, including Punjab; Band-e-Amir lakes Agriculture, livestock; day labor secondary

Economy:

Drug Production/Trafficking:
Dangers/Concerns: Significance:

Some reports of trafficking; small scale poppy cultivation

Many landmines Cultural capital of Hazaras; generally opposed to Taliban; strategically placed to thrive from Silk Road; Buddhists of Bamyan statues destroyed by Taliban; first female governor

183

LANGUAGE GUIDE
184

Major Languages

185

LANGUAGE GUIDE
Dari (Afghan Persian/Farsi) and Pashtu are the official languages of Afghanistan Pashtu was declared the National Language of the country during the beginning of King Zahir in 1933; however, Dari has always been used for business and government transactions Pashtu is primarily spoken in Southern areas and the Eastern areas bordering Pakistan; Dari is used in much of the rest of the country Dari only differs slightly from Persian Farsi; both use the same alphabet Pashtu has an alphabet distinct from Farsi/Dari; there are two main dialects (Southern and Northern) that slightly vary from one another (all dialects are mutually understood by all Pashtu speakers) A significant percentage of the vocabulary of both languages is borrowed from Arabic 186

187

Dari

General Terminology

Pashtu

188

Dari

Medical Terminology

Pashtu

189

Dari

Directions/Orders

Pashtu

190

Dari

People

Pashtu

191

Dari

Places

Pashtu

192

Dari

General Questions

Pashtu

193

Dari

Time

Pashtu

194

Dari

Check Point Terminology

Pashtu

195

Dari

Weapons

Pashtu

196

Vocabulary Basic Words

English hello welcome no Dari salaam khoosh aamadeyn ney Pashtu as-salaamu alaykum kha raaghlaast na

yes
please excuse me right wrong

baley
lutfan mey bakhshee durust ghalat

ho
mehrabaanee bakhana ghwaalum sahee ghalat
197

Vocabulary
Basic Phrases
English good morning good evening Dari Sobh ba khayr shab ba khayr Pashtu as-salaamu alaykum shpa mo pa khayr

goodbye
How are you? you are safe my name is __________ What is your name? I am fine, thanks

baamaane khudaa
chutoor haste? bare shumaa khtar neys naam maa _________ as name shumaa cheest ? khoob astum, tashakur

da khoday pa amaan
Zhenga yae khater nashta zmaa_noom___dai staa num tsa deh ? zeh khe yum manana
198

Vocabulary Survival
English Dari Pashtu ta pe inglisee khabaree kawaley shee? staa num tsa deh?

Do you speak English?

englisi yaad dawri?

What is your name?

name shumaa cheest?

calm down

aaraam baash bare shumaa khatar nayst

aaraam sha

you are safe

taaso ta kom khatar neshta

Where is _________?

__________ da kujass?

_______cheeree dai?

How many?

chand taw?

Tso daanae?

199

Vocabulary Survival
English shelter medicine Dari panaagaah panaagaah dawaa shumaa ba kumak zaroorat daareen? asleha mayn daar dawaa kamak ta zaroorat laray? wasley da maayn saha Pashtu

Do you need help?

weapons minefield

danger area
What direction?

saayey khatar
kudaam taraff?

khatar naaka seema

kumee khwaata?
200

Vocabulary Survival
English
Do you have_______?

Dari
shumaa__________daarin ?

Pashtu
tasey__________larey?

Where? What?

kujaa? chee?

cheeree? tse shey?

Who?
Why? help me water food

kee?
cheraa? mara komak ko aoo naan

tsok?
walee? zamaa sara marasta woka ooba dwodey
201

Vocabulary Command and Control

English form a line surrender speak slowly calm down Who is in charge? Dari lavin shawain taslim sho ahesta gap bezan araam baash Aamer key ast? Pashtu pa qataar ke wadaregai taslim sha karaar khabaree kawa aaraam sha tsok salaahiyat larey?
202

Numerals
US 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Dari sefer yak doo sey chaar panj shash haft hasht Pashtun sifar yaw dwa drey salor pinza shpag oowa ata US 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Dari no da yaazdaa duwaazdaa seyzdaa chaardaa panzdaa shaanzdaa havdaa Pashtun naha las yolas dowolas diyaarlas swaarlas peenzalas shpaglas woo-las
203

Numerals Cont.
US 18 19 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 Dari hazh-daa nuzdaa beest see chel penjaa shast haftaad hashtaad Pashtu ata-las Non-as shel dersh tsalweiKht panzohs shpeeta aweyah ateyah US 90 100 1,000 10,000 100,000 Million first second third Dari nawad sad yak hazaar daa-azaar
yak sad-azaar

Pashtu navee sel zer las zer sel zera milyon lomlay dohom dreyam

yak melyoon awal du-wam sey-wum

204

Cultural Proverbs, Expressions, and Idioms

Tajik proverb says A person's navel is on his belly while the world's navel is on the Pamirs. There is a path to the top of the highest mountain. The first day you meet, you are friends. The next day you meet, you are brothers. Dont stop a donkey that is not yours. Meaning to mind your own business. Blood cannot be washed out with blood. No rose is without thorns. Without investigating the water, dont take off your shoes to walk through it. A liar is forgetful. You cant clap with one hand. There is strength in union. A river is made drop by drop. Step by step, precept by precept. The right answer to a fool is silence. Silence is golden. Dont show me the palm tree, show me the dates. What you see in yourself is what you see in the world. Vinegar that is free is sweeter than honey. People love getting something for nothing. A wise enemy is better than a foolish friend. Seek good advice. Fear the person who doesn't fear God. Glory is fitting to God alone. A person should not be proud.
205

Afghan Superstitions
If your foot touches or hits another person's foot, you will get into a fight with that person, unless you shake hands right away. If a baby has jaundice, let the baby lick on cleaned gold and the jaundice will go away. During an eclipse if pregnant woman scratches herself, a black mark will appear on her baby. It's not good to let someone compliment your child too much, because they may become jinxed and bad luck may fall on them. ( This is called "Nazar"-ing a child.) If your cross under a rainbow, a sex change will occur. A boy will turn to a girl and a girl will turn into a boy. Don't click the scissors, it brings about a fight. Cover your bald head or else it may start raining. If you draw lines on the ground you will be in debt. Jingling your keys will cause a fight to occur. If a boy chews gum, his beard will grow uneven or sideways. After praying, you should fold a side of the prayer mat or the devil will come and pray on it. After reading the Quran, you should close it immediately, or the devil will come and read from it. You will be falsely accused of something if your feet touch a broom. If a male child is circumcised, fasten a piece of feroza (pure turquoise) jewelry to his bedding above the head and he will heal faster and nicely. When a newborn is brought into the house and placed into his or her bed, hanging something (jewelry etc..) with the name of Allah on it will help keep the baby safe from harm when they sleep. Marriage between the two holidays Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha is prohibited. Shaving a baby's hair will make its hair grow thicker.

206

Body Movements and Gestures

Feet and Head Big blunders can arise if Westerners are unaware of the significance of the head and the feet in a Muslim culture. Afghans typically sit with legs crossed. Pointing the soles of the feet towards someone is impolite because the soles of the feet (shoe) are considered dirty, closest to the ground, closer to the devil and farther away from God. When in the presence of Muslims, be careful not to raise or cross your legs in such a way that the sole of the foot faces others in the room. It is important to be aware of how the bottoms of your feet are pointed whenever you are in a room with others. Never let the sole of your foot or shoe come in contact with an Afghan person.
Be aware that forcing a Muslim's head to touch the ground may make him an enemy. Muslims only touch their heads to the ground when praying. You may also see Afghans holding their hands up in front of their face. This is to request divine assistance.

http://uwf.edu/atcdev/Afghanistan/Behaviors/Lesson8PhysicalGestures.html

207

Body Movements and Gestures

Left Hand Remember, in Afghanistan, and throughout the Muslim world, Afghans use the right hand exclusively for all public functions. These functions include shaking hands, eating, drinking, and passing something to another person. Using the left hand is an insult and, if done in the presence of many others, could bring shame to an Afghan. The left hand serves a specific purpose hygiene after the use of the toilet. Afghans will cleanse their hands immediately after. In fact, many consider the Western practice of using paper to be offensive, and question how paper can make one sufficiently clean. Some historians believe this may be the reason hand shaking is done with the right hand universally in all cultures. Afghans are liberal with hand gestures and facial expressions during discussions. The sooner Westerners can acquaint themselves with some of the gestures, mannerisms, and taboos of the region, the less likely negative social situations will arise. Vulgar American hand gestures are understood and should not be used. Do not burp or spit in public; both are considered rude and insulting. Pounding the fist into the palm and stroking the beard of chin signals revenge.
http://uwf.edu/atcdev/Afghanistan/Behaviors/Lesson8PhysicalGestures.html

208

Body Movements and Gestures

Likewise, many facial expressions and body movements are universal. For instance, a scowl, grimace or frown means the same thing in Afghanistan as in the U.S. As in Western cultures, Afghans nod the head up and down for yes and left and right for no. Winking always has sexual connotations and should be avoided.

To beckon someone, one motions downward with the palm of the hand facing the ground. Avoid pointing a finger at objects or at a person to whom you wish to speak. To point at or beckon others with the fingers is extremely rude and can be construed as a sexual advance.
http://uwf.edu/atcdev/Afghanistan/Behaviors/Lesson8PhysicalGestures.html

209

Body Movements and Gestures

Thumbs Up and The OK Sign
The thumbs-up gesture traditionally is an offensive Muslim insult. It is equivalent to using the middle finger in the Western world. Some more media savvy Afghans may understand the Western meaning of an upturned thumb and intend for the gesture to mean just that. Other Afghans may use the gesture in its traditional sense.

The OK sign, a circle made with the thumb and index finger, takes on different cultural meanings worldwide. Although in the United States it is generally accepted to mean all is well, in other cultures it can symbolize the evil eye, suggest a person or thing is worthless (0-value), or act as a lewd reference to a part of a woman's body. As with thumbs up, many Afghans have come to accept this symbol to mean all is OK, but it is safer to avoid the gesture entirely.
http://uwf.edu/atcdev/Afghanistan/Behaviors/Lesson8PhysicalGestures.html

210

Body Movements and Gestures

Hospitality is an important element of Afghan life and includes generosity of food, relationship building, and polite gestures of hand shaking and small talk upon greeting. Keep in mind though, that these same behaviors are not appropriate towards women (unless you are a woman). Social practices of eating communally on floor pillows, waiting for elders, removing shoes upon entering and using the right hand are best practiced by observing others. Hand gestures which include pointing, the middle finger and upward palms are considered offensive, while standing within close contact is the norm. Discussions regarding politics and religion should be avoided as well as any action or speech which criticizes an Afghan person. While many Afghans appreciate cats, dogs are not pets. Attempting to rush a social or business encounter will remain unproductive, as Afghans are more focused on relationships rather than agendas. Keep in mind: Sit with legs crossed without showing the soles of your feet Respect and accept hospitality Follow elders and locals with regard to introduction and meeting protocol Be patient Display rank appropriate behavior Only women may touch or inquire of Afghan women
http://uwf.edu/atcdev/Afghanistan/Behaviors/Lesson8PhysicalGestures.html

211

Shaking Hands

U.S. Army photo by Spc De'Yonte Mosley

212

Inspiring Stories
The unit won the hearts and minds of Afghans:
First Sgt. John Hanson from Cal Guard ADT was deployed to Afghanistan in Kunar Province. This is the way he and his unit won the hearts and minds of Afghans: The Unit discovered people there are at the very, very low end of the poverty scale and their animals are extremely important to them, so, they decided to help them with their animals and they vaccinated close to 14,000 head of animals, goats, cows, sheep. As a result of this mission, a village of 100 people has water for themselves, their animals and their crops," Velte said. "It marked a milestone as our first official completed project." The Cal Guard ADT is also providing technical expertise in leadership skills. They are pushing the local government to get involved at the lowest levels so people there will have confidence their government will help them. "None of that will be able to be implemented unless the people believe in their district governments and the provincial governments and overall government," Hanson said. It's been an exceptional door opener. Every village we've been into, they know who the ADT is and when we return, or when our counterparts return, they know we are there to do good things for them," Hanson said. This is a way to get the support of villagers and to give Afghans a good impression of Americans and their in their country.

213

Inspiring Stories
Afghan saved a GI, now pays the price This is the story of Muhammad Gulab who saved the life of a US soldier. Gulab knew that in rescuing the American, Petty Officer 1st Class Marcus Luttrell, he was risking his own life. The day before, he had heard the gunfire and shouting of pro-Taliban guerrillas who had battled a team of U.S. Navy SEAL commandos. Killed in that battle were three Navy SEALs Matt Axelson, Danny Dietz and Michael Murphy. Luttrell was the sole American survivor of the fight. When he saw the collapsing soldier with dried blood and bruises all over his body he knew it was his duty to save him. On that day, Luttrell stepped forward to Gulab, put his arms around him and handed over his rifle, Gulab said with that, Luttrell entrusted his life not only to the shepherd but also to the ancient and ironclad moral code of the Pashtun people. Their code of honor, called pashtunwali, is written in no constitution or legislation, but in the mountains and deserts of Pakistan and Afghanistan that are the Pashtuns homeland. It carries the force of law.

214

Inspiring Stories
He came to me for help. If I did not help a guest, it would have been a great shame for me, Gulab said a shame that might have led to his expulsion from his community. Gulab walked the wounded Luttrell to his home at his house, Gulab tried to make Luttrell comfortable. He gave him some of his clothes, but he was too tall for them . . . he laid him in a bed and his brother cleaned his wounds. They cooked some goat for him, but at first he wouldnt eat. Armed men came to his door to get the soldier, but he protected him. Meanwhile, Gulabs family sent word to U.S. forces based across an 8,500-foot mountain from the Shuraik Valley, at Asadabad. We got some paper and I told the soldier to write a note, Gulab said. We sewed it inside the hem of my brother-in-laws shirt. I sent him to the Americans to tell them that we had their soldier and the Taliban were going to attack us. Four days after Gulab found the American, U.S. troops arrived to rescue him. They loaded Luttrell and Gulab into a helicopter for a flight to an American base at Jalalabad. SEAL was being readied for medical evacuation to the United States, and Gulab did not accept the $200,000. He was proud that he saved the life of his guest.

215

Inspiring Stories
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited Marines in Nowzad, Afghanistan, March 9 2010 Nowzad is in Kandahar. What he saw was the success of the Marines which made him to believe the new strategy was working in Afghanistan. People are moving back to the city, and thats indicative of whats happening in other areas, thanks to a fundamental change in counterinsurgency strategy in the country, Gates said. During his walk in the town, the secretary stopped and spoke with Afghan storekeepers and families. The walk would have been unthinkable six months ago, when the Taliban controlled what was once the second-largest city in the province. When the Marines first went into the city, they faced tough opposition and found mines and improvised explosive devices everywhere. Now, more than 50 shops are operating in the city, and people are returning. Nowzad is not a poster city. The shops are mud-walled, one-story huts facing the street. Garage doors, not windows, secure the premises. People hang out in front of the stores for lack of any worthwhile employment. The clear, hold, build strategy will require time here, Gates acknowledged. You have to begin with the fact that its a poor country to start with and has been through 30 years of war, Gates said. You have to have some context here: Build to what? It seems to me that somebody having a roof over their head and being able to work their farm and send their children to school for a lot of Afghans today, that sounds like a pretty good life. Gates said the young service members are inspirational.
216

Inspiring Stories
Death of Afghan elder raises tension but the family of the victim has no hostility towards Americans and they accepted the US apology. This story began in a village called Sarbanai, Afghanistan. Shayesta Khan was about 75, a village elder with a long white beard and a white cap, a peacemaker who settled local squabbles. He said he liked the Americans and once helped U.S. troops search a villager's home for weapons. Khan never expected U.S. soldiers to show up at his house in the middle of the night. When they did, bursting into his family compound on May 17, Khan was asleep. By the time the soldiers left, Khan was dead, shot in his pajamas in his bedroom. What happened in between is not clear. The U.S. military says Khan was shot because he did not obey commands to stop moving. The Afghan government and Khan's family say he was shot for no reason. He was an innocent person, not guilty of anything," his son Daktar Khan said. "He was an old man who was killed in his bed." Unfortunate incident, U.S. says Afghan officials worry insurgents could use the death to recruit followers or turn people against the U.S.-led coalition.

217

Inspiring Stories

According to the U.S. military, the raid followed intelligence reports that bombs were being made at the compound. A villager had directed soldiers to the home of Mirwais, said O'Hara, the coalition spokesman. The family said the soldiers arrived after midnight, breaking open a side door, where steps lead to an open area outside Khan's bedroom. In the confusion, family members heard shouts and then gunshots. Khan's sons said he was trying to light the lantern above his bed when he was shot. Intelligence official Esmati, who has investigated the case, said he believes Khan was trying to grab a shirt. The bullets hit just above Khan's bed and the door. They appear to have been fired from outside, through the windows. Three days after the death of Shayesta Khan, U.S. soldiers went to Sarbanai to offer their condolences and concern for the family, O'Hara said. Karzai's office also sent the family the equivalent of $4,000, a fortune here, said Merajuddin Pathan, governor of Khost. Family members considered the U.S. visit an apology, which they accepted. They said they harbor no bad feelings toward the U.S. But Shayesta Khan's older brother still does not accept that he is dead.

218

Undelivered promises
A village elder claimed that member of the PRT promised to deliver Gabion Baskets to his village. The Gabion Basket is a system that controls erosion and water flow along creeks and riverbeds that farmers rely upon of irrigation. The elder, and thus much of the village, had lost considerable faith in ISAF as a whole because of what he perceived as a lie. It appears that the PRT was operating outside the purview of the battle-space owner by interfacing with the populace and making aid promises it could or would not produce. The two lessons here are how important integrity is to many, many Afghans, especially elders. Its not about the Gabion Baskets, its about your word. The second lesson is there has to be unity of command and effort, without this, there is no sustainability.
219

Sources consulted
Page
82 91

Source
http://www.isaf.nato.int/article/news/marines-mentor-afghan-marksmen.html

http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2010/01/31/weekinreview/13rohde-grfk2.html?ref=weekinreview http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2010/01/31/weekinreview/13rohde-grfk2.html?ref=weekinreview http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2010/01/31/weekinreview/13rohde-grfk2.html?ref=weekinreview http://uwf.edu/atcdev/Afghanistan/Behaviors/Lesson8PhysicalGestures.html

http://www.flickr.com/photos/isafmedia/4666139932/

92

93

207-211 212

220

TRADOC CULTURE CENTER Purpose Provide mission-focused culture education and training Build and enhance cross-cultural competency and regional expertise Increase effectiveness of US Soldiers in coalition and joint environment; stability, security, and humanitarian operation
221

In its effort to support US Soldiers, the TRADOC Culture Center offers the following training and products for initial military training through the Captain Career Course:
Region-Specific Training Support Packages Covering Countries in:

CENTCOM AFRICOM SOUTHCOM PACOM Core Culture Competency Training Support Packages
What is Culture/Who Am I Influences on Culture Cross-Culture Communications Rapport Building Cross-Culture Negotiations

The TRADOC Culture Center is committed to fulfilling the needs of US Soldiers and is able to provide culture training tailored to specific requests.
222

TRADOC Culture Center (TCC) Ft Huachuca, AZ For more information on available products and classes please contact: Phone: 520 538 5502/ 520 533 5413 Fax: 520 538 7921 https://ikn.army.mil/apps/tccv2

To schedule Culture Training: https://ikn.army.mil/apps/g3mtt

223