ABSTRACT
Turning to the empirical research in Afghanistan, this chapter looks at the first set of key findings from the case studies: the initial transformation of purdah norms, permitting the start of the three women’s enterprises. Building off Chapter 2, the discussion begins by expanding on the relevant literature on social norms, drawing particular attention to codes of honour, religious-based values and economic development. It discusses the general emergence of social norms, their maintenance and effects, and their transformation. Within the context of Afghanistan (Chapter 3), it then describes the specific characteristics of the norm of purdah. Exploring the case studies, the process of transformation of purdah in the women’s enterprises is then presented, looking carefully at the role of core actors and the influence of the local context. In the cross-case analysis, the discussion assesses critical aspects of the transformation process and the evolving nature of heterogeneous purdah norms. It also looks at resulting outcomes in terms of power, trust, cooperation, and networks; and emerging new values and preferences.
