Afghanistan: 2003 Constitutional Loya Jirga

Years active: 2003-2004

Afghans Approve a New Constitution

After 22 days of sometimes heated debate, the final document establishes a government that is both Islamic and accountable.

The constitutional process appears endangered by disputes over the issues of national language and dual citizenship.

No need for religious government since Afghans are wholly Muslim anyway.

It could take up to six years before the north of the country is rid of the deadly menace.

Many Afghans see education as essential to both sexes, but traditionalists still think the best place for women is home.

Islam provides foundations for progress, and must be written into the new constitution.

Disputes over a national language and the national anthem leads to the final vote on the constitution being put off yet again.

The dilution of presidential powers and the creation of a national commission to oversee major government decision are declared part of the document.