Joint Conference Calls for More Independent Research

Participants at an international conference co-hosted by AUAF concluded that independent research about the conflict in Afghanistan is required to effectively address the root causes of conflict in the country.

"Today we are dealing with different conflicts," said Dr. Sharif Fayez, Founding President of AUAF, in his opening address. "We need to know more about this destructive force, its ideological roots, its political and financial supporters, and ways of dealing with it." The Governor of Herat province, H.E. Sayed Hussain Anwari, followed Dr. Fayez by endorsing the call for research.

The conference, which was co-hosted by AUAF and the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, saw a cross-section of Afghanistan’s political, humanitarian, development, education, cultural, and religious communities, as well as international experts, come together in the historic city of Herat. Approximately 80 individuals attended the two full days of lectures and dialogue. Opening on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the conference highlighted as a particular area of concern the role of women as both victims of conflict and practitioners of conflict resolution.

Other issues, including ethnic tensions, regional dynamics, international involvement in Afghanistan, the efficacy of traditional shuras versus state civil and criminal justice mechanisms, and respect for human rights were also discussed. Mr. Fahim Hakim, Commissioner of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, commented, "Afghans are not only witnesses but direct victims of the violations of human rights."

A number of speakers addressed the limitations currently posed by inadequate data about conflict analysis and resolution, and called for greater research conducted to the highest academic standards. "Much of what we call research in this country lacks ethical norms such as honesty, objectivity, integrity, respect for intellectual property, non-discrimination, openness, social responsibility, and confidentiality," noted Dr. Fayez. "In addition, we have a long tradition of subjecting research to the service of the establishment, the ruling power, ignoring these ethical norms. We must depart from this tradition."

The conference will be followed by a series of similar events that will address specific areas of inquiry identified by conference participants. 

For more information on conference outcomes, please contact the Communications Department.