Conflict and Culture Project Impact Report – Afghanistan – Women for Peace and Participation

This document discusses the “Culture and Conflict project” part of the Gender Justice and Security Hub in Afghanistan. The primary focus on this action-based research is to investigate the impact of conflicts in various regions by delving into the discussion of cultural aspect and impact of war and insecurity on people’s culture and needs. This research employed a cultural mapping approach to explore how women in diverse conflict-affected areas utilise both explicit and implied knowledge to rebuild their livelihoods. By employing cultural mapping techniques and conducting fieldwork interviews, the project aimed to produced policy papers and created a catalogue that showcases the craftwork of women of Afghanistan. This research contributes to a collective of stories from South Asia and Afghanistan; including Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka. The Project Initiatives in Afghanistan has consistently presented unique challenges for project implementation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and after the events of August 2021. The “Conflict and Culture” project was carried out in two main locations within Afghanistan, namely Kabul and Kandahar initially, each with its distinctive and captivating history and rich cultural diversity. Locations changed to Kandahar, Mazar, and Quetta in our Cross-Border Initiatives” after August 2021. In Afghanistan, the emphasis revolved around the significance of craftsmanship as an integral aspect of the culture and daily lives of its people. Artisan communities were organised primarily in two key locations, namely Kabul and Kandahar. Through skill mapping exercises, the project identified the three principal art and craft forms prevalent in Afghanistan. We delved deeply into the renowned embroideries of these regions and examined their importance to both women and their communities – and the history and culture that this form of embroidery depict. These distinctive and well-known embroideries and crafts include charmadozi, khammak, and Afghan traditional Rug and Kelem/Gleem weaving. The project placed particular emphasis on the role of gender within this practice and delved into the significance that this craft holds for female artisans, as well as the values it conveys across generations. This comprehension contributes significantly to the broader cultural tapestry and identity of Afghanistan.
Abida Kakar, Palwashah, Gul, Mohammadzai, Zamani, Nezami (TBC) Conflict and Culture Project Impact Report – Afghanistan; Women for Peace and Participation.
Conflict-and-Culture-Project-Impact-Report-–-Afghanistan-Women-for-Peace-and-Participation