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| ISAF Civil Society | |
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Mission: To inform, energize and synchronize efforts across ISAF and with International Community partners to engage with and develop civil society as a strategic partner in the long-term vision for stabilizing Afghanistan and fostering a healthy society. ISAF members in various fields including anti-corruption, rule of law, force reintegration, and traditional communications engage with Afghan civil society leaders and organizations. They develop relationships, listen to citizen views and concerns, and in turn inform ISAF decision-makers. Some are Afghan Hands, who serve in Afghanistan for 3-5 years, learn Dari or Pashto, and devote themselves to understanding Afghan culture and perspectives, which is essential to population-centric counter-insurgency (COIN). Definition: Civil Society is defined as the sphere of institutions, organizations, and individuals located between the family, the state, and the market in which people associate voluntarily to advance common interests. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) include traditional social networks such as jirgas and shuras, religious communities / leaders, professional and academic associations, youth, interest-based or human/gender rights organizations, independent (non-Government) media, and cultural/artistic associations. Traditional kinds of civil society organizations have existed in Afghanistan for hundreds of years and naturally influence various aspects of life including justice, development and security. Importance: Strengthening Afghan civil society is the primary means of generating bottom-up stability, advancing the Afghan people to become recognized stake-holders in shaping their future. When civil society and non-government leaders across the board are engaged and empowered, communities are enabled to take serious steps against insurgents, criminal networks, corruption, abuse of political power, and social injustice. By rebuilding an Afghan civil society rooted in its historical and cultural values, ISAF works with the International Community to increase trust and bridge the gap between the Afghan people and a legitimate government, which is in turn shaped by their voices. This critical process will enable durable stability and an ongoing strategic partnership.
This section is being update. This section is being update. Contact: If you would like to contact someone at ISAF working with civil society, please send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it |
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