Reza JAFARI, Founder
Our Story: Why I Founded Afghan Peace Dialogue
After decades of war that caused millions of displacements, deaths, and suffering, it became clear to me that the solution for Afghanistan cannot be found through violence. War is not the answer, nor is an externally imposed solution. As an Afghan who deeply knows and loves my country and its people, I created Afghan Peace Dialogue (APD) to foster a true and lasting peace. This peace, grounded in an Afghan-led approach, must involve and empower the youth, women, ethnic groups, and minorities who shape the nation’s future. Achieving peace is only the beginning; it must be nurtured and protected for future generations.
The Foundations and Goals of Afghan Peace Dialogue
Afghan Peace Dialogue (APD) was established to address the humanitarian, political, and social crises facing Afghanistan and to ensure that all Afghans have a voice in shaping a peaceful and stable future. Our mission is founded on several essential principles :
- Achieving Peace through Intra-Afghan Dialogue: Following the fall of the republican government in 2021 and the rise of the Taliban, APD has advocated for inclusive talks among all Afghans. These dialogues are crucial for addressing the nation’s long-standing ethnic and political divisions and achieving a unified national consensus.
- Rejection of Violence as a Solution: APD firmly believes that war can never bring lasting stability to Afghanistan. We oppose military solutions and emphasize that real peace can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for human rights.
- Inclusive Participation: APD is committed to ensuring that all segments of Afghan society—youth, women, ethnic and religious minorities—play active roles in the peace process. These groups, long marginalized, are central to building a future of justice and equality.
- Protecting Democratic Gains: Despite the challenges, the past two decades gave Afghans a taste of fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, gender equality, and protections for women and children. APD upholds these hard-won gains as essential components of any future governance structure, ensuring they are integrated with Afghan cultural values.
The History and Evolution of Afghan Peace Dialogue
The idea for Afghan Peace Dialogue emerged amidst an urgent crisis. After the 2001 Bonn Conference, Afghanistan experienced a republic that brought significant advances but was also plagued by corruption, insecurity, and internal divisions. The Taliban’s takeover in 2021 brought a new wave of repression and ended these hard-won freedoms. In this context, APD formed as a non-violent, independent movement advocating for Afghan-led solutions.
APD’s Resolutions and Advocacy:
APD regularly documents and denounces the ongoing human rights abuses and crises in Afghanistan. Through collaboration with international bodies, APD has issued resolutions demanding an immediate ceasefire, the protection of women’s and children’s rights, and direct humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations. Our advocacy aims to engage the international community and urge its leaders to support Afghan citizens while resisting the Taliban’s influence.
Appeal for Global Solidarity: Although Afghanistan’s future must be determined by Afghans, APD recognizes the importance of international support to address immediate crises. APD calls upon the UN, the European Union, and global allies to provide humanitarian aid and to help resume peace talks in a way that respects Afghan sovereignty.
A Vision for the Future: APD envisions establishing a transitional, inclusive government to lay the groundwork for transparent elections and a sustainable democratic structure. This transitional government would safeguard civil rights, facilitate the reintegration of refugees, and promote access to education, especially for women and youth.
Our Actions and Commitments
Since its inception, Afghan Peace Dialogue has organized conferences, peaceful marches, and press events to mobilize Afghans around values of peace and justice and to engage the global community. APD is dedicated to :
- Defending the rights of Afghan women and children, who are particularly vulnerable under the current regime.
- Advocating for a ceasefire and an end to violence against civilians.
- Supporting local organizations and exiled political parties in restoring fundamental freedoms.
- Insisting on the non-recognition of the Taliban regime as Afghanistan’s legitimate government.
- Working closely with international partners to provide lasting humanitarian and educational solutions.
Conclusion: Towards a Lasting Peace
Afghan Peace Dialogue embodies the hope for an Afghanistan built on peace, justice, and human dignity. Our history is one of unwavering commitment to our homeland, resilience, and the belief in a brighter future for all Afghans. We believe a united Afghanistan is possible, and we will continue to work tirelessly to provide a future where every Afghan can live freely, safely, and with hope.