On October 27, The Asia Foundation released the findings from its most recent public opinion poll in Afghanistan, covering all 34 provinces in the country. Afghanistan in 2009: A Survey of the Afghan People is the fifth poll conducted by The Asia Foundation; previous polls were released in 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008. Collectively, the five surveys establish an accurate, long-term barometer of public opinion across Afghanistan to help assess the mood and direction of the country. The fieldwork for the survey was conducted during June and July 2009, prior to the presidential election. Pollsters conducted personal interviews with a random sample of 6,406 Afghan citizens 18 years of age and older, both women and men, from different social, economic, and ethnic communities in rural and urban areas.
The survey respondents pointed to insecurity – attacks, violence, and terrorism – as the biggest problem facing the country, followed closely by unemployment, a poor economy, and corruption. Findings also indicate that 42 percent of Afghans think the country is headed in the right direction (compared to 38 percent in 2008, 42 percent in 2007, 44 percent in 2006, and 64 percent in 2004); while 29 percent feel it is moving in the wrong direction. The remaining 21 percent have mixed feelings.