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 it's often whom one knows rather then 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)