Local Justice In Afghanistan

05:36

December 28, 2012

This article is more than 10 years old.

In Helmand, committees of village elders rule on small disputes between neighbors. The elders say what they're offering is more progressive than the old-style tribal law, where daughters were often handed over to settle disputes. It's cheap, quick, popular and in direct competition with the local justice that's been provided by the Taliban. (BBC screenshot) — In Helmand Province, Afghanistan, committees of village elders rule on small disputes between neighbors. BBC reporter David Loyn reports "it's cheap, quick, popular, in direct competition with the local justice that's been provided by the Taliban." (BBC screenshot)

One of the reasons the Taliban has been so difficult to defeat in Afghanistan is its control over the local people. They have earned popularity by delivering a form of local justice.

But there are signs - even in some of the most troubled parts of the country - that the Afghan government and police are making inroads to change that.

The BBC's David Loyn reports from Helmand Province in Afghanistan.

BBC: Afghanistan's new form of justice

This segment aired on December 28, 2012.

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