In solidarity with the people of Afghanistan

Two decades after they were overthrown by a US-led invasion, weeks of fighting across the country between insurgents and Afghan forces have culminated in the fall of Kabul to the Taliban.

All those working for peace in Afghanistan must be protected.

We are deeply concerned about the safety of women and youth peacebuilders, activists and leaders in the country at this time. Across Afghanistan, women and girls are fearful for their lives and their futures. One woman said: “In Afghanistan now we are not allowed to be known as the people we are.” Urgent measures must be taken to ensure that the rights, education and safety of women and girls are protected now and in the months and weeks to come.

Our CEO Dylan Mathews said:

“Watching the events unfold in Afghanistan over recent days has been heart-breaking. While the future remains uncertain and fearful for many in the country right now, one thing is clear: We must support Afghan civil society in whatever way we can so that they can defend human rights, protect their communities and keep hope alive. We are reaching out to our networks to see how we can help at this time of crisis, and continue to call for peace and justice .”

As an organisation committed to upholding peace around the world:

• We urge the international community to support and rapidly fund efforts to protect Afghan civil society, and in particular women and youth-led organisations. 
• We call on donors to provide flexible funding to Afghan organisations and communities, so that they can continue their work and adapt it to cater for the rapidly changing situation. 
• 18 months after the peace agreement reached in Doha, we urge the Taliban leaders to uphold commitments to peace and respect for human rights for all, including women, youth and minorities. We urge the Taliban to let Afghans and non-Afghans leave the country safely. Those holding positions of power bear the responsibility to protect human life and uphold the rights of all.
• We stand in solidarity with local peacebuilders, human rights defenders, community activists and the communities they serve who believe in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. They are an inspiration to us all.