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(April 17, 2002)
On April 15, Afghanistan began the process of choosing its next government. Over the next few weeks, Afghans across the country will take part in meetings and elections culminating in mid-June with the convening of a consultative body known as the loya jirga. Nearly all of Afghanistan's active political groups have pledged to uphold the process, although tensions between rival armed groups and commanders, as well as continued human rights abuses, have clouded the prospects for convening a representative body. The success or failure of the process will be a key indicator of Afghanistan's future, including the prospects for restoring accountable, civilian government and rebuilding institutions of justice. Human Rights Watch has provided the following Q & A on the process.
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