"This study, sponsored by the Communication Assistance Foundation, examines the potential for community-based radio in Afghanistan and identifies examples of how community radio can support initiatives for community development. The report and its recommendations are primarily intended as a resource for agencies and organizations considering supporting radio, media or communication activities in the country, whether with funds or expertise [...] The report's main conclusion is that community radio is not only a viable option for Afghanistan, it is also a low-cost and effective way of contributing to medium and long-term efforts for reconstruction, development, democracy and nation-building. Community radio can be the missing link in a three-tiered publicservice radio system made up of national, regional and local radio stations. Recommendations deal with awareness of community radio, legal issues, governance, technology, and coordination of activities." (Executive summary, page II-III)
1 Introduction, 1
2 What is community radio? 4
3 Background, 6
4 Media in Afghanistan, 10
5 Community radio in Afghanistan: Some questions and tentative answers, 18
6 Recommendations, 27
7 Appendices, 29