Afghan culture is heavily centred around religion and has changed considerably over decades, depending on the leadership at the time.  Afghanistan has recently faced many economic, social and political difficulties, including several recent governments' legitimacy (Nancy Hatch Dupree & Dupree, 2019). In the 1960s, Afghani culture held more liberal and Western-influenced values. This included women having the option to wear a veil, access to education, including university, and the ability to work.

However, in 1996, the Taliban took political control and subsequently enforced many Islamic rules that impeded the rights of women. This included strict dress codes and women being unable to go to school or work.  Men also must follow a strict cultural Islamic regime. For example, men must grow beards, and it is considered unfaithful to remove them (Issued by the Australian National Imams Council, 2021).

Religion has and continues to play a vital role in Afghani culture, with Islam being the main religion practised. There are two main types of is practiced in Afghanistan, Sunni and Shi’a. Ethnicity generally determines what type of religion Afghanistan will practice. (Evans, 2019). People who practice the Shi’a religion are often discriminated against, particularly after the Taliban came in; they persecuted many people from the minority religion and even attacked places of worship. Religious freedom is also a big issue in Afghanistan, and many people flee the country to protect themselves or their families.  How people dress in Afghanistan is also heavily influenced by religion. All Afghan people are expected to dress modestly, and women are required to cover their heads and faces and wear long robes that cover their entire body, including their arms, to not be recognised, but this is dependent on whether they are out in public or not.(Foroutan, 2024 pg. 112, 2021)

Amaranthus retroflexus L. Traditinally named Taj khorosak. This plant was introduced into Afghanistan, and it is used to treat upper respiratory disease and even Tonsilitis.

Brassica hirta Moench, commonly called Awri, was first used in Chinese medicine, and it found its way to Afghanistan. Locals use the plant to treat localised body pain and to treat minor wounds.

Refugees from Afghanistan face many cultural challenges when coming to Australia, including access to public services, housing, language barriers and virtually every aspect of everyday living. The Commonwealth and State governments have many programs in place to support refugees in order to give them the best opportunity for a new start and to build a fulfilling life and future in Australia (UNHCR, 2024.pg.3 ).

For me, it is important not to assume that people can speak and read English when providing health care to them. It is equally important not to assume that religious beliefs or cultural norms would not impact the type of care or how it is provided to a patient (or with their family) and should always be a consideration.

I endeavour to apply this domain in a clinical setting by asking questions and getting to know my patients so they feel comfortable allowing me to treat them. I wouldn’t assume they are happy with me doing or saying anything to them without clarifying their expectations and ensuring I respect their culture, and not being naive to their personal circumstances and wishes. (Migrant & Refugees woman’s health partnership, Pg, 12)