Prospects of HRDs in Afghanistan 2nd Round of the Strategic Dialogue of Afghan HRDs Berlin, Germany
The 2nd Strategic Dialogue of Afghan Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in Exile, themed “Prospects of HRDs in Afghanistan: Accountability and Representation,” was held on December 10–11, 2024, at the Mercure Hotel MOA in Berlin. Coinciding with International Human Rights Day, the event brought together 64 confirmed in-person participants and 43 confirmed online attendees, who faced challenges of security and internet connectivity. The participants included Afghan HRDs, international stakeholders, and advocacy experts. This event served as a critical platform to assess the state of human rights in Afghanistan, foster collaboration among activists, and develop actionable strategies to address ongoing challenges. Through keynote speeches, interactive dialogues, and working group sessions, the conference addressed accountability mechanisms, advocacy strategies, and the vital roles of HRDs both within Afghanistan and in exile. Panels centered on key themes and facilitated dynamic discussions among leading voices in the field.
Ms. Atefa Tayeb, warmly welcomed the participants and expressed gratitude for their commitment to advancing human rights. Ms Tayeb emphasized on the current human rights situation in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, highlighting the erosion of fundamental freedoms and the persistent threats to human dignity.
Ms. Nagina Yari presented a comprehensive one-year progress report from the Human Rights Defenders Plus HRD+. Ms. Yari highlighted achievements such as the establishment of working committees, enhanced collaboration with international organizations, and the preparation of multiple reports on the human rights situation in Afghanistan.
Mr. Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, delivered a message that reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Afghan HRDs and introduced critical initiatives.
Panel 1: Afghanistan’s International Obligations and Accountability
This session explored how the international community can support Afghanistan in meeting its human rights commitments. Panelists examined strategies for advocacy and potential enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance.
Interactive Dialogue 1: Solution-Oriented Dialogue on the Role of Afghan HRDs
This panel, moderated by Mr. Asghar Soroush, brought together various speakers to discuss the current state of Afghan human rights defenders (HRDs) living outside Afghanistan. The session explored the challenges they face, strategies for collaboration, and ways to amplify their advocacy efforts.
Dr. Alema opened the discussion by highlighting the stark differences in the conditions of HRDs in neighboring countries versus those in Europe. While HRDs in European countries experience better living conditions, those in neighboring countries struggle with overwhelming challenges, including cultural adaptation and language barriers. These issues often lead to the isolation of HRDs from their advocacy efforts.
Panel 2: Accountability Mechanisms for Justice in Afghanistan
Delving into the roles of global justice mechanisms, such as the ICC, ICJ, and UN Special Rapporteur, this session emphasized collaborative advocacy efforts to pursue justice and accountability
Panel 3: Cultural Moment: Art and resilience
The cultural panel explored the intersection of art, literature, and human rights advocacy, emphasizing the transformative role of creative expression in fostering awareness and driving societal change. Moderated by Ms. Sara Nabil, the discussion featured insights from Mr. Khalil Arya and Ms. Maryam Mitra, who brought unique perspectives to the conversation.
Closing Panel: Representation of Afghanistan on the Global Stage
The concluding discussion examined the issue of legitimate representation of Afghanistan in international forums, ensuring diverse voices are included in global dialogues.
In addition to the panels, working group sessions addressed vital themes, such as international advocacy, strategies for Afghan HRDs in exile, and coordination with media and organizations. These efforts were complemented by cultural segments celebrating Afghan resilience through art and performance, underscoring a holistic approach to advocacy and awareness.
Candle-Lighting Ceremony in Remembrance of War Victims
The conference was marked by a poignant Candle-Lighting Ceremony, held in remembrance of war victims and to honor the memory of Afghan Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) who have tragically lost their lives in recent years. Organized by CSHRN, this solemn event took place after the first day of the conference, in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Germany in Berlin, and lasted for two hours. The ceremony paid heartfelt tribute to 20 Afghan HRDs whose profiles are documented in the “Med Journey Handbook,” a publication unveiled by CSHRN during the conference
As an immediate outcome the Conference Paper can be downloaded here: