Story: Afghan's Gather to Debate and Adopt a New Constitution: 12/10/03
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/july-dec03/afghan_12-10.html

Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. What is happening in Afghanistan this week?

2. What happens after the loya jirga adopts a new constitution?

3. Describe the role of religion in the draft constitution.

4. What kind of presidency is outlined in the draft constitution?

5. Why was the position of prime minister eliminated in the final version?

6. Why do some Afghans want a prime minister?

7. Name three other criticisms of the draft constitution?

8. What is "Operation Avalanche"?

Discussion Questions (more research might be needed):

1. How is the situation in Afghanistan similar to when the United States drafted its constitution in the 1780s? How is it different?

2. Do you think Afghanistan can be an "Islamic republic" and a democracy at the same time? Why or why not?

3. If you were part of the loya jirga, what would you fight to be in the new constitution? What would you oppose?

Send your answers, in essay form, to extra@newshour.org for possible publication!