The conference titled “Envisioning Afghanistan’s Future: Building Bridges for a Shared Narrative”, initiated by the Ottawa Consultative Process in collaboration with the Center for International Policy Studies at the University of Ottawa, was held on Wednesday (April 22) in Canada.
The event was attended by a number of political figures, academics, diplomats, civil society activists, women’s rights defenders, and members of the Afghan diaspora community in Canada. The aim of the conference was said to be discussing Afghanistan’s future and strengthening dialogue and cooperation between this community and international institutions.
Sharif Ghalib, Executive Director of the Ottawa Consultative Process, said the initiative was organized to create a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas aimed at achieving a “shared understanding and a stable vision” for Afghanistan’s future.
Marilou McPhedran, a Canadian senator, stressed that “Afghanistan’s future is not possible without the real participation of its people,” emphasizing the role of women and youth in shaping a shared narrative.
Sima Samar, former head of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, said the country needs “courage in dialogue and acceptance of collective responsibility” to move beyond the current situation, and must focus on women’s rights and human dignity.
The conference took place amid ongoing political, economic, and humanitarian challenges in Afghanistan. Organizers also emphasized the role of the diaspora community in maintaining social ties and contributing to intellectual discussions about the country’s future.
