Religion and Politics

Almost all Afghans in Canada are Muslims and, as in their homeland, are divided between the Sunni (80 percent) and the Shiite (20 percent) traditions. Those who choose to attend religious services seek out mosques of their own tradition. Both types exist in all major Canadian cities. The first-generation Afghans generally observe the Islamic holidays, including the month of fasting, but younger members tend to be less observant of religious practices. Most immigrants, while practising Muslims, do not adhere to the more radical fundamentalist approach to Islam now advocated by groups in power in Kabul. Their Islamic faith is essentially moderate.

Afghans are not greatly involved in national or local political issues in Canada, in part because they are relatively new arrivals and their concerns are directed towards homeland politics. Hence, the greatest concerns among the Afghan immigrants still reflect the political situation in Afghanistan and the refugee communities in Pakistan. Since the abdication of the last Durrani king (Zahir Shah) in 1973, the homeland has seen a number of political movements, including Marxism, Islamic fundamentalism, national socialism, monarchism, and various forms of ethnic and tribal nationalism. Since most Afghans in Canada fled one or more of these political ideologies, they have strong opinions regarding politics in Afghanistan. Although no poll has been taken, it is generally assumed that a plurality, but probably not an absolute majority, of the Afghan community would prefer the return of the king. Supporters of all the other political options are also to be found. Few Afghans in Canada support the Marxist position, since most had to flee because of the repressive acts of that government.