We are pleased to announce the upcoming Frontier Talks seminar featuring Rustam Makhmudov, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Anthropology and Conflict Studies, which will take place on June 9.

The seminar will offer a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between cultural policies and ethno-political dynamics in contemporary Afghanistan. Drawing on extensive field research and interdisciplinary perspectives, Mr. Makhmudov will explore how cultural governance mechanisms have been employed — both historically and in recent years — to navigate Afghanistan’s complex mosaic of ethnic identities, religious traditions, and local power structures.

The discussion is expected to shed light on the role of tribal affiliations, linguistic diversity, and traditional norms in shaping political behavior and social cohesion in Afghan society. In particular, the seminar will address how various Afghan administrations, international actors, and non-state groups have used cultural instruments either to stabilize or to influence ethnopolitical relations — often with contested and unintended consequences.

Mr. Makhmudov’s expertise in anthropology and conflict studies offers a distinctive lens for interpreting cultural governance not merely as a form of policy but as a living social process that shapes identities and power relations in fragile state environments.

Participants are encouraged to engage in the Q&A session that will follow the presentation. The seminar is open to UWED faculty, students, researchers, and all those interested in regional studies, conflict resolution, and Central-South Asian affairs.

Date and time: 9 June, 11 AM
Venue: IAIS Meetings Area