Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
On November 21, 2023, an important and extensive session focusing on leadership, advocacy, and a theatrical performance was held. This event, which lasted from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, brought together prominent figures and members of Afghan civil society and human rights organizations residing in Pakistan.
Participants in the Session:
The session was attended by:
- A representative from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
- A representative from the SHARP legal office.
- The Head of the Pakistani Refugees Department.
- Leaders and members of Afghan civil society and human rights organizations in Pakistan.
Topics Discussed:
The session included comprehensive discussions addressing challenges, suggestions, and actionable plans to support Afghan refugees in Pakistan and facilitate their safe relocation to more secure countries.
Relocation from Pakistan and Engagement with Embassies:
Planning for the safe relocation of refugees and civil society members to accepting countries.
Emphasis on pursuing interviews and maintaining communications with embassies for all members.
Protests and Advocacy in the Streets:
Exploring legal and civic strategies for organizing protests to advocate for refugees’ rights.
Stressing the need for a unified voice and greater coordination among activists.
Churches and Support for Religious Minorities:
Addressing challenges and threats faced by religious minorities and their places of worship.
Proposals for broader international support for these groups.
Other Topics:
Short-term and long-term programs for advocacy and the defense of civic values.
Developing strategies to enhance coordination among organizations and members.
Speakers at the Session:
Ezatullah Bakhsi:
The President and Founder
During the session, Ezatullah Bakhsi delivered a compelling speech on the vital role of establishing Afghan civil society and human rights organizations to foster greater coordination among civil activists. He emphasized the critical need for Afghan civil society activists around the globe to unite under a single umbrella, particularly in light of Afghanistan’s tragic fall into the grip of terrorism.
Sultani highlighted that in the current dire circumstances, such unity is not only essential but urgent. He stressed that a collective and coordinated effort is necessary to advocate for Afghanistan’s future, defend its civic and human rights values, and keep the voices of Afghan people alive on the international stage.
Through his speech, Sultani inspired attendees to focus on collaborative efforts and to see themselves as integral parts of a global movement advocating for justice, equality, and a brighter future for Afghanistan.
Ahmad Wais Rahimi:
The Executive Director and Co-Founder of the organization highlighted the importance of solidarity among members and expanding advocacy networks internationally.
Sayed Hafizullah Rohani:
A leadership member of the organization, Rohani stressed the importance of working across all areas and encouraged members to exert maximum effort in pursuing the organization’s objectives.
Theatrical Performance:
A key highlight of the session was the theatrical performance addressing the expulsion of refugees, with a special focus on the vulnerabilities of civil activists. This performance shed light on the dire conditions faced by Afghan refugees in Pakistan and aimed to draw attention to their plight.
Suggestions from Members:
At the conclusion of the session, members presented several suggestions, including:
Enhancing engagement with international human rights organizations.
Establishing digital platforms to raise awareness about the refugees’ situation.
Planning for more regular and targeted sessions.
Summary:
This session marked a turning point in the advocacy and civil efforts of Afghan civil society and human rights organizations. The event demonstrated the unity and dedication of all members in defending the rights of refugees, women, and minorities under the current challenging circumstances.
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