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The Center for the Scientific Study of Families reports are designed to provide relevant information about the conditional state of families in a specified context. The report provides information such as population, culture, family structure, and family life. 

Family reports are an important tool for improving the lives of families. By providing information about the family’s conditional state and context, family reports can help improve communication between families and service providers and lead to better outcomes for families and children.

Overview

Laghman is located in the eastern part of the country. The province is bordered by Nuristan in the north, Kunar in the east, Nangarhar in the south, and Kabul in the west. The majority of the province is mountainous, with the Kashmund range in the southeast and the Kuhestan range in the north. The population is approximately 500,000, and the main ethnic groups include Pashtuns, Tajiks, and Pashai. Pashtuns are the predominant ethnic group in Laghman. The provincial capital is Mitarlam, which is the largest city in the province and serves as its administrative center. 

Agriculture is the primary economic activity in Laghman, with farmers cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, and fruits. Additionally, livestock farming is also prevalent. Like many other provinces in Afghanistan, Laghman has faced security challenges due to the ongoing conflict and insurgency. 

Ethnic and Cultural Diversity

Laghman is home to a diverse population representing various ethnic groups. A 2017 report from the Naval Postgraduate School lists the following ethnic groups in Laghman: Pashai and Kata (27%), then Pashtun (51.3%), Tajik (21.7%). The same source reports that of the approximately 500,000 people in the province (at that time), Pashtuns lived predominantly in the western portions of the province, with the Pashai and Kata minorities residing in the north of Laghman.

Marriage & Divorce Statistics

Our research did not reveal specific data for marriages in Kunar. However, we were able to identify a report from the United States government covering human rights practices in Afghanistan. Afghan law sets the minimum legal age of marriage at 16 for girls and 18 for boys. However, due to poverty and customs, child marriage is still a major issue in Afghanistan. While divorce is technically legal in Afghanistan, it is difficult for women to obtain. Men can divorce their wives without a court order, while women face significant social and legal obstacles when seeking a divorce. It is important to note that marriage in Laghman and Afghanistan is dynamic, and social and cultural practices can vary across regions and communities. The information provided here is a general overview and may not represent the experiences of every marriage or divorce in the province

Family Life in Helmand

Afghanistan has experienced decades of conflict, which has had a profound impact on family life. The effects of war, displacement, and insecurity can lead to disruptions in family structures, the loss of family members, and trauma that affects the well-being of families and communities. Education and employment are essential for the well-being of families in Laghman. Education can help children develop the skills they need to succeed in life, and employment can help families earn a living. However, access to education and employment is often limited for families in Laghman, especially for women and girls. Afghan society, including Laghman, has traditionally been patriarchal, with distinct gender roles. However, there have been efforts to promote women’s empowerment and gender equality. 

Conclusion

Family life in Laghman, Afghanistan, is characterized by diverse cultural practices and values shaped by the region’s ethnic groups. The ongoing conflict in Afghanistan has had a significant impact on family life in Laghman, and families in the province face a number of challenges. However, there are also opportunities for families in Laghman, and with support, they can overcome the challenges they face and build a better future for themselves. Future CSSF reports on the province will benefit from increased data about families in the province.

Katie Gabbard is a senior at Miami University majoring in Psychology with a minor in Child Studies and Youth Development, in addition to a minor in Social Justice and Inequalities. She is also beginning the process of conducting individual research with the guidance of Miami University faculty. She currently serves as a research assistant to Dr. Anthony James on the State of Families project.