The role of participatory communication in strengthening solidarity and social cohesion in Afghanistan

Abstract

Participatory communication is an important consideration in the development process (Tufte and Mefalopulos 2009). Communication plays an important role in empowering people to influence the decisions that affect their lives and to strengthen solidarity and social cohesion among them (Noorzai 2006; Tufte and Mefalopulos 2009). The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the role of participatory communication in strengthening solidarity and social cohesion through development programs in Afghanistan. Primary interview data facilitate discussion of how participatory communication approach of development programs can be effective in increasing unity and solidarity among members of the Afghan society. Nevertheless, of note is that ethnic diversity and power relations at the community level could affect solidarity among people, both in negative and positive ways. As such, people’s participation in development activities can contribute to achieving equality, providing them the ownership of their development can help reduce conflict and thus increase collectiveness.