Vesala

Vesala is a Cardassian term that refers to the influence an individual possesses within the Cardassian Union.

Influence is highly valued in Cardassian society as its often who he knows rather then what he knows that matters. This is known as Vesala which every Cardassian possesses, which is a vast and elaborate web of personal contacts, influence, and friends who get things done. Someone does a favor for him and he does a favor for them in return. Thus, there exists the use and exchange of vesala.