How does the term qawm describe social identity in Afghanistan?

In Afghanistan, the term qawm is a fundamental concept used to define social identity and group affiliation. Rather than referring to a single type of association, it describes an affinity with almost any social group, including ethnic groups, tribes, clans, or specific villages.1

Functionally, the qawm serves to distinguish "us" from "them," acting as a primary marker of identity that separates individuals based on their specific group membership. This social structure carries significant weight, as being part of a particular qawm entails specific responsibilities and advantages for its members. Furthermore, the stability of local social and political institutions is often influenced by their qawm composition, reflecting the broader importance of kinship in determining the patriarchal character of Afghan community life.1