This panel will discuss the role and significance of religious actors in Afghanistan.
Through war and peace and shifting regimes mosques and religious institutions have played central roles in Afghan communities, providing space for worship and prayer, Islami education, and accommodating the needs of the population. Religious leaders are often expected to act as conflict mediators within their communities.
The role and significance of religious actors in Afghanistan has been disputed by Afghans and by the international community. Still, they are recipients of support economically and morally. In the current situation, after the Taliban takeover – what space is available for religious actors? What role can religious leaders play? Earlier female religious leaders had an important role as educators and mediators in domestic cases – what is the situation now? And is there a potential for religious leaders as bridgebuilders and promoters of non-violence and peace?
Chair: Norunn Grande
Panel:
Tamkin Hamayuddin
Nazifa Jalili
Kaja Borchgrevink
