On November 14, The Asia Foundation will release findings from its eighth public opinion poll in Afghanistan, Afghanistan in 2012: A Survey of the Afghan People. Read more here.
AFGHANISTAN'S RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS AMONG MOST TRUSTED
Family conflicts, tribal disputes, and legal disputes brought to religious leaders
In Afghanistan's history, the only consistent, local governance institution available to the public has been religious leaders, known as mullahs or imams. Our 2011 Survey of the Afghan People revealed that religious leaders still receive the highest vote of confidence among local institutions. Seventy percent of 6,348 Afghan citizens polled say there should be regular consultation with religious leaders about problems in their area, while 74 percent rank religious leaders as one of the three most trusted institutions. These figures are the highest since 2006. Our survey is the broadest and most comprehensive poll conducted in the country; this year, while 46 percent maintain the country is headed in the right direction, more respondents than at any time since we began polling in 2004 say Afghanistan is headed in the wrong direction. At the same time, the survey reflects progress in day-to-day needs being met. Improvements in security, transparency, and reductions in corruption are critical to encouraging the Afghan people to trust their state institutions. In the meantime, religious leaders will continue to play a critical role in their local communities.
— MOHAMMAD OSMAN TARIQ
Director of Islam and Development, Kabul