Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 04/2015

Political Parties in Afghanistan

Anna Larson

March 2015

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

Political parties in Afghanistan are often dismissed by international and Afghan observers as unruly and highly personalized organizations that contribute little to the democratic process. Yet they continue to play a part in shaping the political landscape, albeit in what might be considered unorthodox ways. This report assesses their history, role, and activities over the last decade and how their future might unfold under and contribute to the country’s new unity government.