Gathering weekly the elders talk to the soldiers and police to voice their concerns and work out what needs to be done to build a more secure and brighter future for the village of Shaheed.
Now that the Taliban have been pushed out the elders are interested improving the village. The topics covered in the Shura included developing a bazaar so that that shopkeepers and framers have a place to sell their goods as well as suggestions for a school as the Taliban destroyed the last one.
The Shura is also the perfect way to build trust between the community, the army and police who are now there to serve the people.
Major Ed Hill arrives at the Shura which the Afghan National Police commander is hosting
Insignia of the Afghan National Police 
An elder listening to the discussions
The police commander seated with the village elders
The meeting place in the garden of the police station
Major Ed Hill listening to his interpreter
The Afghan National Army company commander talking to the elders. He is a strong leader and respected by the elders
Listening intensely
Taking Chai is an important part of any meeting
Pictures: Major Paul Smyth
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Wonderful photographs - they tell a story and they are actually beautiful images. Let's hope that the reality of that shura is as hopeful as it looks.
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