ABSTRACT

After describing the geographical and varied ethnic composition of the province, the chapter focuses on recent violence, poppy production and small arms trafficking. Second, it discusses the wide variety of both international and local armed actors present in Jalalabad and the consequences on commander power networks, armed group maintenance and small arms licensing. Particular attention is given to the evolution of Hazrat Ali’s militias and the impact of Coalition support. Third, the chapter reviews the history of armed conflict in the region, focusing particularly on the shifting fortunes of the Nangarhar shura. The latter’s conflict resolution function was considerably more significant than its role in conflict mobilization. Finally, the interviews of the combatants from Jalalabad reveal the prominent role of economic incentives for mobilization. Elder authority is rarely discussed as a factor driving mobilization. Instead, combatants cite economic incentives and force as dominant motives across the periods of mobilization. Moreover, family patronage groups appeared to be more significant than community armed groups in the recruitment and mobilization of combatants.