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International Journal of Servant-Leadership

Abstract

This study investigates practical examples of servant-leadership in the rural areas of Herat province, Afghanistan. A literature review revealed a significant gap in research focusing on practical instances of servant-leadership in these regions. We employed a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and circle reflections to collect data. Initially guided by Spears’ ten principles of servant-leadership, our data analysis led to a redefinition of both the term and its underlying principles, while remaining true to the original concept. The study identified two types of servant-leaders: traditional leaders, who inherit their roles through family status, and emerging leaders, who gain authority through personal qualifications and democratic processes. We identified eight key qualities of servant-leadership in these communities: a strong desire to serve, strong faith in afterlife reward, prioritizing the poor, community development, honesty, accountability, community building, and respect for children. These principles, while unique to the sociocultural context, share important commonalities with those outlined by Spears.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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