Our history
Why I founded Afghan Peace Dialogue
تاریخچهٔ ما
A word from Reza Jafari, founder and President of Afghan Peace Dialogue.
Reza Jafari, Founder
Our story
After decades of conflict that caused millions of deaths and displacements and immense suffering, it became clear to me that Afghanistan’s future cannot be imposed by force or from outside. The answer lies in a political solution reached by Afghans themselves.
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.
Foundations
The principles that guide us
Peace through inter-Afghan dialogue
Since the fall of the Republic in 2021, APD has advocated inclusive talks among all Afghans, to overcome long-standing ethnic and political divisions and build a national consensus.
A political solution
APD believes that lasting stability will come from a political settlement negotiated among Afghans, through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for human rights, free from foreign interference.
Inclusive participation
Youth, women, ethnic and religious minorities — long marginalised — must play an active role in the peace process and in building a future of justice and equality.
Protecting democratic gains
Freedom of speech, equality between women and men and the protection of children are essential to any future governance, in harmony with Afghan cultural values.
History
How the movement was born
The idea of Afghan Peace Dialogue emerged amid an urgent crisis. After the 2001 Bonn Conference, Afghanistan experienced a republic that brought significant advances but was weakened by corruption, insecurity and internal divisions. The Taliban takeover in 2021 brought a new wave of repression and ended hard-won freedoms.
In this context, APD was formed as an independent, non-partisan movement advocating Afghan-led solutions.
Advocacy
Resolutions and international engagement
APD documents and denounces human rights violations in Afghanistan. With international partners, it has called for a ceasefire, the protection of the rights of women and children, and direct humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations.
Appeal for global solidarity. Afghanistan’s future must be decided by Afghans, but international support is essential. APD calls on the United Nations, the European Union and their partners to provide humanitarian aid and to help resume peace talks in a way that respects Afghan sovereignty.
A vision for the future. APD proposes an inclusive transitional government to prepare transparent elections and a lasting democratic order, safeguarding civil rights, the return of refugees and access to education, especially for women and youth.
Commitments
Our actions and commitments
Since its creation, Afghan Peace Dialogue has organised conferences, peaceful gatherings and press events to mobilise Afghans around peace and justice and to engage the international community. APD is dedicated to:
- defending the rights of Afghan women and children;
- calling for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians;
- supporting civil society organisations and democratic forces in exile;
- opposing the recognition of the Taliban regime as Afghanistan’s legitimate government;
- working with international partners on lasting humanitarian and educational solutions.
Towards a lasting peace
Afghan Peace Dialogue embodies the hope of an Afghanistan built on peace, justice and human dignity. We believe a united Afghanistan is possible, and we will keep working for a future in which every Afghan can live freely, safely and with hope.