Vesala is a Cardassian term that refers to the influence an individual possesses within the Cardassian Union.
History and specifics[]
Influence is highly valued in Cardassian society as it's often whom one knows rather than what one knows that matters. This is known as vesala, 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. (Decipher RPG module: Aliens)