Subject: So. Studies/Sciences: Geography/Cultures

Asian Studies Series

Afghanistan: Back to the Warlords

"Recommended. This documentary presents the realities of the current leadership in Afghanistan, and prompts the question, has anything really changed in the way of governance in this long warlord dominated country?" -EMRO Review
As the United States continues its efforts to bring peace to Afghanistan, this classic documentary reveals the role that continues to be played by a number of tribal warlords. The program opens with Afghan men forming a motorized convoy for a trip outside of Kabul; their boots and uniforms they received from the U.S.; their weapons from Iran. On the trip we see scenes of devastation caused by drought and over two decades of war; people living in poverty is a contrast to the well-equipped men who serve under local leaders. Women we learn have more freedom since the end of the Taliban regime; however, their struggle for equal rights continues. Humanitarian aid does not go through organizations, such as the Red Cross; instead American Special Forces channel it to local leaders, who then ration it to the locals, who have traveled long distances to receive these basic necessities. Seeing these warlords in their territorial roles of administering to the locals, while their armed men standby, it becomes clear much of Afghanistan is still under the rule of the gun. Produced by ABC Australia. 2010DR/CL JSCA 22 min.