Protecting the achievements in Afghanistan: Europe's role in supporting civil society and democracy after the NATO allies withdraw
As US and NATO troops prepare to leave by 11 September 2021 after 20 years of military engagement in Afghanistan, this timely conversation with Afghan civil society representatives and Afghan and European policy makers will look at the role Europe can play in safeguarding the achievements in democracy, human rights and development over the past two decades. The discussion will cover: the challenges for the Afghan government, civil society and the diaspora; the Taliban’s role in Afghanistan's future and prospects for a mediated solution; preserving achievements in education and women’s rights; and evaluating and tracking European development and humanitarian funds.
AGENDA
10:30 - 10:40 CET: Opening remarks
Petras Auštrevičius, Member of the European Parliament, Chair of the Delegation for relations with Afghanistan
Michael Keating, Executive Director, European Institute of Peace
10:40 - 10:50 CET: Keynote address: European Union’s commitment for Afghanistan
Marjeta Jager, Deputy Director General for the Directorate-General for International Partnerships
10:50 - 11:00 CET: Keynote address: A role for the EU in the Afghan peace and reconciliation process
Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of Afghanistan’s High Council for National Reconciliation
11:00 - 11:55 CET: Discussion with Afghan civil society and diaspora members followed by Q&A
Panelists:
Ahmad Masood Amer, Executive Director, Centre for Afghanistan Policy Studies
Fariha Easar, Human Rights Activist and Founder of the “Menstruation is not a taboo” awareness program in Afghanistan
Dr Huma Saeed, Senior Researcher of Human Rights and Transitional Justice at the University of Leuven
Moderator: Michael Keating, Executive Director, European Institute of Peace
11:55 - 12:00 Closing remarks