Shaping a New Afghanistan

The New Afghanistan Democratic Forum has been established to serve as an inclusive, diverse, and democratic civil society platform.

What we do?

The New Afghanistan Democratic Forum has been established to serve as an inclusive, diverse, and democratic civil society platform for fostering collaboration, communication, and synergy among its members which includes over (25) CSOs, civic activists, and stakeholders from Afghanistan, Europe (and the UK), USA, Canada and Australia, Turkiye and other countries where exiled communities are based.

Although the concept of “civil society” is fluid, we use the term here to represent a diverse cross-section of society, including members of human-rights organisations, national and international non-governmental organisations, media outlets, think tanks and universities, entrepreneurs, traders as well as artists, journalists, writers, sports personalities, intellectuals and beyond.

Also, in eastern Islamic societies like Afghanistan, the concept goes beyond  this classification to include members of informal organisations in rural settings, such as the Ulema, and in urban contexts, wakil guzars or community leaders and mullahs from local mosques.


Civil society plays a varying role in the politics of a country. In advanced consumer societies with liberal democratic systems the market in tandem with a limited government provides most of the services to the population, while in former communist systems the inflated state structures were providing these services through limited civil society organisations. In Eastern Islamic societies, by contrast to the above systems, with an undeveloped market and a weak state system the civil society’s role can be vast. It is in this context that the concept of “civil society” should be understood in Afghanistan.

Our Mandate:

Advocacy and Representation

Coordinating collective efforts to advocate for common causes and serving as a unified voice for the people of Afghanistan.

Facilitation and Collaboration

Building and maintaining a network of CSOs, activists and stakeholders and facilitating the exchange of information, resources, and best practices.

Research and Policy Engagement

Conducting research on various topics and providing expertise and analysis on policy issues as well as engaging with policy makers and stakeholders to influence decisions.

Our Values

  • At The New Afghanistan Democratic Forum (NADF), we celebrate diversity and ensure that all voices are heard. Inclusivity is not just a value for us; it's the foundation upon which we build a harmonious and united Afghanistan. Every individual, regardless of background or identity, is welcome and valued within our community.

  • We believe in the strength of diversity. Our commitment to embracing a wide array of perspectives, experiences, and ideas enriches our collective understanding and fuels our ability to create positive change. By valuing diversity, we aim to foster an inclusive and vibrant platform for the people of Afghanistan.

  • Democracy is at the core of our principles. We advocate for and uphold democratic values as we work towards a future where every citizen of Afghanistan has a say in shaping the nation's destiny. Through dialogue, collaboration, and representation, we strive to build a democratic society that reflects the aspirations of its people.

  • Transparency is the bedrock of trust. We are committed to openness in our actions and decisions. By maintaining transparency, we aim to build trust among our members, partners, and the wider community. Open communication ensures accountability and strengthens our collective efforts towards positive change.

  • We hold ourselves accountable to our mission and the people we serve. Through responsible stewardship of resources and a commitment to our goals, we strive to achieve meaningful impact. Accountability is not just a duty but a guiding principle that shapes our actions and decisions for the betterment of Afghanistan.

  • Human rights are non-negotiable. We stand firm in our commitment to upholding and promoting the fundamental rights and dignity of every individual. By championing human rights, we work towards creating a society where justice, equality, and respect are the cornerstones of everyday life in Afghanistan.

Our Common Goal

At The New Afghanistan Democratic Forum, our mission is clear: to achieve sustainable peace and re-establish the rule of law, civic values, and human rights in Afghanistan. We envision a future where the people of Afghanistan live in harmony, governed by justice, and with a deep respect for the rights and dignity of every individual.

By fostering collaboration, advocating for common causes, and engaging in meaningful dialogue, we aim to contribute to the reconstruction of Afghanistan. Join us in our pursuit of a nation where civic values and human rights flourish, and the rule of law prevails, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Governance Structure

The Governance structure of the forum includes:

01. General Assembly

The General Assembly will be the highest decision-making body of the Forum at which members of the leadership are elected for a one-year term.

02. The Leadership Council

The Leadership Council is the representative body of the Forum with a mandate from civil society both inside and outside Afghanistan.

03. Secretariat

The Secretariat is an executive body that reports to the Leadership Council.

04. Thematic Committees or Working Groups

There will be Thematic Working Groups (TWGs) within the Forum.

05. Advisory board

The advisory board will include prominent leaders from governments, international civil society, academia, and the private sector, both from Afghanistan and friends of Afghanistan.

“Our mission is to achieve sustainable peace and the re-establishment of the rule of law, civic values, and human rights in Afghanistan.”

Members

Contact us.

Your involvement matters. If you share our vision for a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan, we invite you to take action now. Fill out the contact form, and let your voice be heard. Whether you have inquiries, collaboration proposals, or simply want to connect, your input is invaluable. Together, we can make a difference and shape the future of Afghanistan. Join us in this transformative journey. Let's build a better tomorrow, hand in hand.

info@nad-forum.org

London, United Kingdom