Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission Strategic Plan (2019-2023)

1. Monitoring the situation of human rights in the deserving of freedom, insofar as they do not violate the country; fundamental freedoms and rights of others. Commitment: The AIHRC is committed to human

2. Promoting human rights through the empower- rights advocacy, rule of law and good governance all ment of individuals; which require consistency and sincere efforts. Transparency and Accountability: These intercon-

3. Protecting and advocating for human rights nected concepts form the cornerstone of the and freedoms through an effective investiga- decision-making mechanisms and the administrative tion mechanism which addresses human rights system of the AIHRC. While emphasizing clear and abuses; transparent rules and regulations, the AIHRC remains committed to both horizontal and vertical account-

4. Holding the government accountable in follow- ability. Each member and employee, with regard to the ing through on its commitment and constitu- AIHRC’s work procedures, is responsible to carry out tional obligations to affirming the human rights their functions in good-faith. agenda; Consultation and Participation: The AIHRC consid- ers consultation and participation as key elements in

5. Supporting, partnering and coalition building with strengthening the sense of ownership both internal- civil society organizations, human rights defend- ly and externally in order to preserve relations with ers, academic institutions, media, religious civil society, media, staffers and all other relevant scholars and influential figures; stakeholders. Respect and Mutual Understanding: Based on a

6. Monitoring, investigating and protecting the firm belief that mutual respect and understanding is a human rights of Afghan women, children, persons vital step towards the acceptance of human rights, the with disabilities, victims and minorities; AIHRC is in favor of the implementation of the principle of diversity. Principles and Values Legality: Legality is at the core of the AIHRC’s mandate and it must at all times be preserved and Human dignity: The AIHRC has based its work on strengthened in order to protect and safeguard the pillars of human dignity as one of the fundamen- fundamental human rights and freedoms. tal rights based on Islamic Guidance and the Univer- Meritocracy and Gender Equality: Equal opportuni- sal Declaration of Human Rights, which belongs to all ty to talented and competent individuals in the AIHRC’s human beings and should be protected and respected hiring process with affirmative action in favor for under all circumstances and conditions. women, people with disabilities. Justice: The AIHRC is committed to working towards universal justice for all Afghans so that no citizen is deprived of access to justice. Equality and Non-Discrimination: The AIHRC 10 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Impact and Outcomes of the AIHRC Programs and Activities since 2002 The activities and achievements of the AIHRC, which • Positive changes have been made to police are reflected within the annual reports, are implement- behavior and practices through monitoring the ed with a result-based approach. Below is a list of performance of the police by the Ombudsman notable impacts and outcomes: Unit and the implementation of the AIHRC’s International Human Rights Law training • uman rights have now become a national programs for national police officers. The dialogue and are discussed in conferences, number of complaints filed against the police radio-television programs and policies. with the AIHRC were are follows: in 2014, 407 complaints; in 2016, 311 complaints; in 2017, • People’s awareness of human rights is 268 complaints and in 2018, 221. enhanced, and they are now sensitive to human rights violations such as issues of rape, honor • As a result of the advocacy work by the AIHRC, killings and physical abuse which are reflected the Afghan government ratified the Convention within Afghan media and social networks. on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2012. • About 7,000 complaints are filed each year, with an increase in registered cases meaning • A revised and newly introduced Afghan Penal there is an increase in human rights awareness Code was recently enforced, whereby based and the work of the AIHRC. The increase in on the efforts made by the AIHRC, the human citizen awareness is supported part and parcel rights norms and values are to some extend through AIHRC training programs implemented considered, and various cases of human rights by the Commission each year, with more than violations have been criminalized. 30,000 Afghans receiving awareness annually through numerous and different educational • A national inquiry on the victims of war and programs. terrorism resulted in the preparation of War Victims’ Compensation Act, currently the draft • Following the signing of an agreement with of this Act has been finalized by the Afghan the Ministry of Education in 2005, the Afghan government. In addition, as a result of the Ministry of Education’s curriculum are reviewed AIHRC’s advocacy, the Afghan government by the AIHRC, which resulted in modifications of designated 21 August as the International Day curriculum based on human rights norms and of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of values. Also, human rights topics and issues are Terrorism. now being included in the textbooks. As a result Afghan school children are getting familiar • There is a reduced and declining trend of illegal with basic human rights concepts throughout prisons operating within Afghanistan which is the country, being introduced to human rights a direct result of ongoing AIHRC monitoring, norms at a young age. intervention, and advocacy. There are no private jails in the areas where the AIHRC is operating. • As a result of ongoing monitoring, training and advocacy by the AIHRC, cases of torture within prisons have dropped dramatically throughout the country’s prisons. The Law on the Prohibi- tion of Torture has also been enforced by a Presidential Decree. 11 Strategic Objectives Strategic Objective One: understanding and realizing human rights faces Leadership real challenges. There remains individuals, officials The AIHRC as an independent and influential institution and institutions doubtful of human rights. There are in the areas of monitoring, protection and promotion of unrelenting invasions of dangerous ideologies, rise human rights is respected and holds a leadership role of radicalism, hate mongering, divisive policies and at the national and international level. violence looking to undermine the foundation of human rights, tolerance and respect for diversity and Issue: In a society where the courage to stand up rule of law in Afghanistan. This is especially evident against tyranny, crime, and human rights violations within the rural regions of the country. The AIHRC is have become increasingly difficult due to corrup- committed to maintaining the achievements gained tion, a weak rule of law, resorting to intimidation and over many years of diligent advocacy and further legiti- violence. The AIHRC remains a respected and influen- mizing human rights within these vulnerable districts. tial vanguard, setting the human rights and freedoms The commission plans to do this by continuing to be agenda in Afghanistan. an active agent in developing and promoting human rights and enhancing the capacity of individuals and Objectives institutions at every level of society. • Human rights discourse in Afghanistan through active engagement, commitment and partic- Objectives ipation of stakeholders at the local, national • The knowledge, skills, understanding and capaci- and international level and utilization of the ty of individuals and institutions in observ- opportunities, mechanisms, procedures and ing, respecting and improving the situation of mass media is strengthened and safeguarded; human rights in Afghanistan is enhanced by the AIHRC’s education and promotion initiatives; • The Afghanistan human rights agenda is set by the AIHRC and widely reflected at the interna- • Human rights concepts and values are included tional level; in national policies and programs and within the curriculum of education and training centers • The effective and meaningful presence of the throughout the country. AIHRC at the national and international levels is continued and maintained. • The capacity of individuals, government agencies, civil society organizations, media Strategic Objective Two: outlets is enhanced and becomes a catalyst for Promotion and Empowerment change and the enjoyment of human rights by Human Rights is promoted within society, institutions, Afghan citizens; national programs and with individuals. Afghans are empowered to exercise and enjoy their human rights • Innovative and quality human rights services and public institutions are able to fulfill their duties are provided by the AIHRC with both national and obligations in regards to respect, protect and and international standards being considered; observe human rights. Strategic Objective Three: Issue: Afghanistan celebrates seventeen years of Monitoring and Protection consistent progress and achievements in the realms Human rights and freedoms of Afghan citizens are of education, good governance, freedom of expres- protected, respected and observed within national sion and association and women’s rights. However, laws and policies, and by the performance of respon- 12 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan sible institutions resulting from the effective and continuous monitoring of the AIHRC. Issue: In the absence of effective and function- ing government institutions, human rights violations will continue to occur and destabilize Afghan society. Afghan citizens are routinely being subjected to acts of intimidation, coercion, violence and systematic harass- ment. This includes, the imposition of arbitrary extortion under various names, illegal taxes, settlement of claims and cases through informal justice, cruel and extraju- dicial punishment and violations of human and Islamic values. Furthermore, corruption has affected the sense of security and trust in public institutions for Afghan citizens. Thus, an effective monitoring and protection mechanism is crucial in combating the listed features eroding the democratic ideals of Afghanistan. The AIHRC’s effective, objective and continuous monitor- ing will protect the observance of human rights and humanitarian law through legal and practical measures. Objectives: • The AIHRC’s continuous, targeted and effective monitoring, using new technologies and methods, protects human rights and prevents human rights abuses; • The impacts of human rights violations of individuals and vulnerable groups, including women, children, and disabled people, are identified and addressed by the commission’s investigation and verification system; • Human rights are protected by enacting, amending, and modifying the laws, regulations and legal instruments through legal guaran- tees, conducting investigations and presenting recommendations to the appropriate national and international actors; • Protection and monitoring programs resulting in the observance of international humanitar- ian law and human rights law by defense and security forces during armed conflicts; 13 Strategic Objective One: Leadership The AIHRC is respected and plays a leading role as an independent and influential institution in the field of monitor- ing, protection and promotion of human rights at the national and international level. Box 1: Objectives 1.1, Indicators & Actions Objective 1.1: Human rights discourse in Afghanistan through active engagement, commitment and partici- pation of stakeholders at the local, national and international level and utilization of the opportunities, mecha- nisms, procedures and mass media is strengthened and safeguarded. Indicators: • Degree to which human rights are observed throughout the peace process, which includes the presence of women and victims of human rights violations • Degree to which the AIHRC’s presence and reflection of its views appears in the national and international press • Degree of commitment and maintenance of human rights priorities in the policies and programs of relevant national and international organizations and institutions working in Afghanistan • Degree of progress of Afghanistan’s engagement and interaction with the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other prominent human rights and treaty bodies within the United Nations system Actions: 1. Launching two national programs on peace, women and human rights in coalition with civil society organi- zations, academic institutions, national and international organizations 2. Conduct a survey measuring women’s participation in local decision-making processes including devel- opment projects, budget preparation and provision of public services

3. Reflect and publish statements, announcements, reports and positions of the AIHRC through regular use of press conferences, media interviews, and publishing articles at the national and international levels

4. Active participation, presentation of commission viewpoints and positions at international meetings, conferences and dialogues

5. Provision of practical and enforceable recommendations to the Government of Afghanistan, the ICC and other human rights mechanisms on women, victims of human rights and the prosecution of human rights violators

6. Conduct national and international conferences covering pertinent human rights issues in cooperation with international institutions including the United Nations, the Organization of the Islamic Conference and other regional and international institutions 14 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 2: Objectives 1.2, Indicators & Actions Objective 1.2: The Afghanistan human rights agenda is set by the AIHRC and widely reflected at the international level. Indicators: • Degree of change in relation to the occurrence of violence against Afghan women, in comparison to the situation of women in neighboring countries • Mechanisms established by the Afghan government for the protection of victims of human rights violations • Degree to which the government has paid attention to the improvements of the human rights situation of children, persons with disabilities and IDPs • Degree to which the right to the healthy living environment is observed and protected by the govern- ment. Additionally, sustainable mechanisms are created to prevent excessive use of water Actions: 1. A national campaign raising public awareness on the elimination of violence against women

2. Conducting national inquiries on violence against women, children, persons with disabilities, victims of human rights violations, IDPs, protection of the environment and access to potable drinking water 3. Collecting data on the implementation of SDGs by the Afghan government especially on goal number five: gender equality and goal number sixteen: peace, justice and strong institutions

4. Present findings on major human rights issues at national and international conferences Box 3: Objectives 1.3, Indicators & Actions Objective 1.3: The effective and meaningful presence of the AIHRC at the national and international levels is continued and maintained. Indicators: • Degree of change in relation to the occurrence of violence against Afghan women, in comparison to the situation of women in neighboring countries • Mechanisms established by the Afghan government for the protection of victims of human rights violations • Degree to which the government has paid attention to the improvements of the human rights situation of children, persons with disabilities and IDPs, • Degree to which the right to the healthy living environment is observed and protected by the govern- ment. Additionally, sustainable mechanisms are created to prevent excessive use of water Actions:

1. The establishment of volunteer human rights councils at the district level in both rural and urban areas within Afghanistan

2. Active leadership and participation within advocacy and coordination networks at local, national and in- ternational levels

3. An attempt to establish a high-level presidential advisory board which will identify and prevent the ap- pointment of a government official, at any level, guilty of human rights violations

4. Taking a leading role in managing the Commission for the Prohibition of Torture

5. Active participation of the AIHRC in the meetings of GANHRI, APF and other prominent regional and inter- national organizations 15 Strategic Objective Two: Promotion and Empowerment Human rights have been promoted at the level of individuals, communities, institutions and national plans. Individ- uals are able to exercise their human rights and institutions are able to fulfill their obligations to observe, protect and promote human rights. Box 4: Objectives 2.1, Indicators & Actions Objective 2.1: The knowledge, skills, understanding and capacity of individuals and institutions in observing, respect- ing and improving the situation of human rights in Afghanistan is enhanced by the AIHRC’s education and promotion initiatives. Indicators: • Increased demand by both government and non-governmental institutions for the AIHRC to conduct human rights training programs • The increase or decrease in the number of complaints against judicial organs and defense and security forces • An increase in the number of human rights ambassadors and defenders within the provincial districts Actions: 1. Conducting human rights education for defense and security institutions 2. Conducting human rights education for judges and prosecutors

3. Conducting human rights education for health care providers and educators

4. Raising awareness and engaging with women, youth and local inhabitants on cultural heritage and its preser- vation

5. Creating tailored human rights education for women, youth and children

6. Organizing one-day conferences to commemorate national and international human rights events

7. Producing and broadcasting radio and television programs focusing on disseminating the core ideals of univer- sal human rights

8. Producing and widely distributing monthly human rights publications, videos and actively utilizing social media channels Box 5: Objectives 2.2, Indicators & Actions Objective 2.2: Human rights concepts and values ​​are included in national policies and programs and within the curric- ulum of education and training centers throughout the country. Indicators: • The degree and scope of inclusion of human rights, women’s rights, peace and justice within the educational curriculum at the primary, secondary and higher education levels • The degree to which human rights centered subjects are taught at national and private higher educational institutions Actions: 1. Signing a memorandum of agreement with the Ministry of Higher Education, national and private universities and institutions of higher education

2. Creating and teaching human rights-based courses in national and private universities

3. Strengthening the current MoU with the Ministry of Education to include human rights, women’s rights and child rights within the educational curriculum and ensuring the current educational curriculum is in line with the principles of universal human rights

4. Prepare and develop a human rights and international humanitarian curriculum for security and defense insti- tutions 16 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 6: Objectives 2.3, Indicators & Actions Objective 2.3: The capacity of individuals, government agencies, civil society organizations, media outlets is en- hanced and becomes a catalyst for change and the enjoyment of human rights by Afghan citizens. Indicators: • Degree of participation and implementation of human rights activities by the AIHRC’s civil society partner institutions • Degree to which referrals are made, complaints are reported and cooperation is sought by the govern- ment and non-governmental organizations • Degree to which human rights issues are observed or reflected in the media Actions: 1. Holding human rights education for civil society organizations, journalists and clergy members 2. Provide three-month capacity-building trainings, research and internship opportunities for civil society activists, media and graduates of universities

3. Cooperation and partnership with media outlets, ensuring they are given accurate and substantive infor- mation about the human rights situation within Afghanistan bringing together both media and democracy Box 7: Objectives 2.4, Indicators & Actions Objective 2.4: Innovative and quality human rights services are provided by the AIHRC with both national and international standards being considered. Indicators: • Increased number of AIHRC’s visitors, clients and stakeholders • Both the external and internal evaluation results of the implementation of the AIHRC’s Strategic Plan • Degree to which the AIHRC’s print and internet publications are utilized • Stakeholder degree of satisfaction with AIHRC programming and performance Actions: 1. Strengthen and continue to actively use the AIHRC webpage and social media outlets 2. Ensure all offices are equipped with the necessary technology needed to conduct activities 3. Review the AIHRC’s organizational structure in accordance with the new strategic plan; incorporating change management techniques to ensure maximum efficacy and output is delivered 4. Review the current data collection systems of the AIHRC and develop new systems where needed, en- suring the commission is utilizing advance data collection and analysis mechanisms 5. Conduct an annual conference to review and approve the Annual Action Plan 6. Monitor and evaluate the programs and administrative activities of the commission 7. Conduct both an internal and external audit program 8. Conduct annual AIHRC staff reviews and ensure an accurate internal assessment is performed 9. Implement staff capacity building programs which will be made available to all AIHRC offices

10. Design, compile and review regulations, guidelines and other administrative documents 11.1 Prepare and publish the AIHRC’s six-month and annual reports 12.1 Implement a physical inventory plan for AIHRC’s goods and assets in regional and provincial offices 13.1 Assess the degree to which the strategic plan is implemented (to be carried out by an external evaluator) 14.1 Develop a strategic plan for the next five-year planning period

15. Survey and evaluate the context for establishing a National Human Rights Institute (the first of its kind in Afghanistan) and a national human rights television program 17 Strategic Objective Three: Monitoring and Protection Human rights and freedoms of Afghan citizens are protected and respected in the laws, policies and practices of the responsible institutions as a result of the effective and continuous monitoring of the AIHRC. Box 8: Objectives 3.1, Indicators & Actions Objective 3.1: The AIHRC’s continuous, targeted and effective monitoring, using new technologies and meth- ods, protects human rights and prevents human rights abuses. Indicators: • Prisoners who are illegally detained and identified by the AIHRC are released • Witnessing a reduction in the number of cases of torture and abuse of prisoners • Women and girls have equal, adequate, and affordable access to education and health services • Reduction of violence against women and children • Improved access to opportunities, services and care for peoples with disabilities, the elderly and IDPs Actions: 1. Create an online monitoring system which is capable of receiving complaints and ensuring up to date databases are maintained 2. Continuous and targeted monitoring of Afghan detention centers, women prisons and juvenile centers, shelters, hospitals, and orphanages

3. Monitoring the general situation of human rights throughout Afghanistan and receiving complaints and petitions

4. Monitoring the situation of women serving in police, ANA, and the NDS and investigate their complaints and petitions against their institutions 5.5 Monitoring the practices of defense and security institutions

6. Monitoring rights to freedom of assembly, access to public services and the situation of elderly citizens and IDPs

7. Strengthening the women rights monitoring and protection program by expanding its task to monitor and survey women and girls access to health and education 8.8 Monitoring the election process (political rights) focusing on participation of women and four political rights and 3 principles 9.9 Monitor the implementation of the presidential decree on the pardon and commutation of sentences Prepare a list of women prisoners who are charged of immoral crimes to be pardoned and or their prison time be changed to a prison substitute 10.1 Monitor and ensure that the national budget is both balanced and equally distributed. The budget would be reviewed on the bases gender and the needs of children.

11. The AIHRC will conduct a survey and partner with CSOs on article 19, 21 and 27 of CPRDs.

12. Publishing thematic, research and monitoring reports on thematic human rights issues, women, girls and children. 13.1 Provide shadow reports to United Nations Human Rights mechanisms and treaty bodies, including CE- DAW and CRC

14. Monitor how the Afghan government implements the recommendations of UN human rights mechanisms. 18 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 9: Objectives 3.2, Indicators & Actions Objective 3.2: The impacts of human rights violations of individuals and vulnerable groups, including women, children, and disabled people, are identified and addressed by the commission’s investigation and verification system. Indicators: • Reduced/Increased number of visitors and complaints received by the AIHRC • The degree to which AIHRC recommendations and referred cases are addressed by the relevant legal authorities • Degree to which the cases of violence against women, children, journalists and human rights defenders are followed up by law enforcement agencies Actions: 1. Registering, processing, documentation and the follow up of complaints of violations of human rights and violence against women, children and other vulnerable groups

2. Supporting and advocating for the victims of human rights abuses, violence against women and children and other vulnerable groups. Furthermore, introducing them to supporting institutions

3. Registration, investigation and the follow up of human rights defenders’, women rights activists and CSOs complaints and ensuring their protection Box 10: Objectives 3.3, Indicators & Actions Objective 3.3: Human rights are protected by enacting, amending, and modifying the laws, regulations and legal instruments through legal guarantees, conducting investigations and presenting recommendations to the ap- propriate national and international actors. Indicators: • Number of laws and legal resources reviewed and approved in accordance with human rights standards • Number of AIHRC recommendations Actions:

1. Active participation in drafting committees to amend laws, regulations, bills, policies, and national pro- grams Furthermore, submitting proposals for the inclusion of human rights standards within the content of these documents 2. Conduct coordination meetings with legislative bodies

3. Identify and adopt measures to prevent the implementation of laws, policies, and other measures that are not in line with the human rights obligations of the Afghan Government 19 Box 11: Objectives 3.4, Indicators & Actions Objective 3.4: Protection and monitoring programs resulting in the observance of international humanitarian law and human rights law by defense and security forces during armed conflicts. Indicators: • Reduced civilian casualties perpetrated by security and defense forces • Reduction in the number of child soldiers being recruited by armed conflict groups • The number of cases of international crimes addressed by the Afghan judicial authorities • Degree of attention paid to the protection of victims of terrorism, widows, women and girls, victims of sexual violence in conflict Actions: 1. Monitoring the observance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) by armed conflict groups in Afghani- stan 2. Monitoring, collecting information and reporting violations committed by non-state armed groups; hold- ing them accountable, ensuring International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is observed 3. Supporting and advocating for the victims of armed conflict, ensuring their human rights are met 4. Prepare and publish an annual report on violations of humanitarian law within the Afghan context 5. Conducting and coordinating meetings with defense and security institutions, the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross and other civil society organizations 6. Working with victims of war, with a focus on women and children, advocating for their rights 7. Embark on a new phase of Transitional Justice in Afghanistan

8. Registration, documenting and referral of international crime cases (war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide) to justice and judicial institutions 20 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Budget The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan’s budget has The following key lessons have been taken into been constructed within a realistic framework comply- account: ing with the commissions internationally standardized financial structuring. This budget is in conformity 1. The Afghan government’s contribution to the with the provision of JFA which allows for a transpar- AIHRC budget: The AIHRC receives around $1 ent and easy to access flow of expenditures. The million USD from the Afghan government which AIHRC’s financial department maintains up to date and has been a sign of good progress. The AIHRC auditable account charts accounting for all commis- expects that the share of government funding sion expenditures and for practical purposes presents for the 2019-2023 Strategic Plan will rise to our budgeting under three main units of budgeting: 30% of the budget, meaning that the GoIRA will provide $10 million to the AIHRC during the

1. Program cost: The program cost takes into period. account the main activities that are budget- ed for program costs. Program cost does not 2. The AIHRC will work with GoIRA, SCOs: This will include overhead and salaries. allow for a diversification of donor funding and will tap onto the capacities that have been built

2. Management cost: Management cost consti- and are now ready to work with the AIHRC on the tutes overhead costs, including the salaries of promotion of human rights within Afghanistan. AIHRC staff and office expenses. The manage- ment cost is the core input toward achieving the 3. Implementation of strict austerity measures: AIHRC outcomes. The AIHRC budgeting system In promoting sustainable use of resources, falls in line with its long-term practice which has the AIHRC has implemented strict austerity not changed to be expensed out against each measures. In this regard, the AIHRC has seized program item(s). the 6% incremental increase of staff salaries and applied restrictions on expenditures. The

3. Governance: The governance cost has been AIHRC has also capped staff size to remaining incorporated in consultation with donor below. requests and shows all costs anticipated to cover the cost of leadership and managing 4. The AIHRC has built office buildings for 10 out of activities of the AIHRC. This includes the travel 14 offices: This has saved the AIHRC $500,000 and salaries of the AIHRC leadership. USD during the Strategic Plan and has allowed for a strategic use of resources and physical The AIHRC has budgeted $37,449,324 for the building resources. entire 2019-2023 five-year strategic plan implemen- tation period. This means that the AIHRC will spend 5. The AIHRC will allow for a degree of decentraliza- around $7 million annually to achieve the objectives tion of expenditures: Based on the needs and outlined within the strategic plan. This budget realis- assessments of regional and provincial offices tically frames the financial needs of the AIHRC for the and program priorities. This will increase the upcoming five-year period and has closely consult- effectiveness and flexibility of AIHRC budgeting ed with the financial lessons learned from the past and smart expenditures to increase efficiency. five-year period. A simple comparison shows that the anticipated budget for the 2019-2023 Strategic Plan is 40% less than the previous 2014-2018 Strategic Plan which was estimated at $53 million. 21 AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Budget Summary Table 1: 5 Year Budget Summary 2019-2023 Staff Salary Total Cost for No Activity Description Staff Salary per five years Direct cost for five years year )(2019-2023 )2019-2023( A PROGRAM COST USD 1 GOAL 1: LEADERSHIP 1262700 $735,418 $3,677,092 $4,939,792 2 GOAL 2: PROMOTION & EMPOWERMENT 5000465 $735,418 $3,677,092 $8,677,557 3 GOAL 3: PROTECTION AND MONITORING 4516100 $735,418 $3,677,092 $8,193,192 Sub Total of Program Cost $10,779,265 $2,206,255 $11,031,277 $21,810,542 B MANAGEMENT COST USD 1 MANAGEMENT STAFF SALARIES & BENEFITS $657,487 $3,287,433 $3,287,433 2 EQUIPMENTS & FURNITURES $42,000 $210,000 $210,000 3 REPAIRE & MAINTENANCE $143,400 $717,000 $717,000 4 SUPPLIES & MATERIALS $105,000 $525,000 $525,000 STAFF TRANSPORTATION, DSA & Accommo- 5 $333,000 $1,665,000 $1,665,000 dation 6 COMMUNICATION $148,585 $742,924 $742,924 7 HOUSE RENT $63,000 $315,000 $315,000 8 UTILITIES $407,000 $1,235,000 $1,235,000 9 SECURITY $52,500 $937,499 $4,949,993 $4,949,993 10 BANK CHARGES $45,000 $225,000 $225,000 Sub Total of Management Cost $1,339,485 $1,594,985 $13,872,349 $13,872,349 C GOVERNANCE COST USD 1 SALARIES & BENEFITS $334,027 $1,670,133 $1,670,133 2 TRAVEL COST $19,260 $96,300 $96,300 Sub Total of Governance Cost $19,260 $334,027 $1,766,433 $1,766,433 Grand Total for five years (2019-2023) $12,138,010 $4,135,267 $26,670,059 $37,449,324 22 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan AIHRC Gender Policy Introduction ments have taken place since the establishment of Gender equality is a fundamental human right and the Afghanistan Interim Administration in December the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commis- 2001, followed by the Transitional Government and sion (AIHRC) is committed to both systematically and two elected governments. Notably, Afghanistan is a institutionally promoting and advocating the rights signatory to seven international conventions, ICESCR, of Afghan women and girls. The commission believes ICCPR, CRC, CAT, CERD, CEDAW and CRPD. Afghan- that a sustainable and viable peace will come to istan’s National Action Plan (NAP) on UNSCR 1325 Afghanistan once women are active participants of (Women, Peace and Security) was adopted in 2012 the negotiation and development process and within and has promoted significant measures towards the economy. On a societal level, and in line with UN bridging the gender divide within Afghanistan. SDG Five: Gender Equality, the AIHRC believes that the state must continue to reinforce sincere efforts Structurally, women are entering and being in ensuring women and girls are given equal access to represented within the professional sector with the opportunities and upward mobility such as that of their support of gender quotas and targets. One notable male counterparts. The commission is at the forefront example is the law of elections, which calls for a of combatting violence against women, which is still required minimum number of females to be represent- a prevalent problem within Afghan society. The AIHRC ed in parliamentary and provincial council elections. In is a leading independent body in the promotion of the the case of the AIHRC, four out of our nine commis- rights of Afghan women and girls and will continue this sioners must be female. On the economic front, strong vital mandate. strides have been made in promoting female econom- ic independence and empowerment. This is made Background evident through the creation of the Afghan Women The AIHRC since its inception has been advocating Chamber of Commerce. and working for the human rights and empowerment of the women and girls. Afghanistan has suffered Afghanistan is a signatory to Covenant on Elimina- through the worst manifestations of human rights tion of all kinds of Discrimination against Women abuses, particularly against women and girls, whereby (CEDAW) and integrated the provision of the covenant a rise in extremism, influence of non-state actors, into domestic law. The EVAW law remains effective volatile ideologies and harmful traditions allow for a as a presidential decree signed into Afghan law. There persistence in gender-based violence and discrimina- has also been an establishment of an elimination of tion to occur. The commission believes that making violence against women tribunal within 14 Afghan gender equality a reality is the only way forward in provinces and a special prosecutor that has been ensuring a sustainable and democratic peace can assigned to lead a team and follow up on registered prevail in Afghanistan. cases of violence against women. Since late 2001, the AIHRC has championed human Despite the initiatives taken towards reaching rights measures and mechanisms which have been gender parity, there are many challenges Afghan able to enactment and ratify numerous laws, national women and girls face. Of government employees, policies and legal documents which have been integral only 21% are women; of the number of adolescent to the human rights and developmental progress Afghans enrolled in primary and secondary schooling made in Afghanistan throughout the last 17 years. only 39% are girls; only 23.5% of university students Though the conservative environment in Afghani- are women; and finally of the nine-member Afghan stan has made the journey toward achieving gender Supreme Court, there is only one female judge. parity particularly difficult, considerable advance- 23 Violence and harassment against women remains ty, girl’s right to education and protecting the rights a prevalent and serious issue in Afghanistan and an of women to justice, public services, and economic area that AIHRC is actively working to monitor, report, opportunities. This unit is represented in all 14 region- advocate and prevent. The commission’s database al and provincial offices of the AIHRC and staffed on violence against women unfortunately highlights by a minimum of two employees. The commission an increase in registered cases of domestic violence, also appoints a National Women’s Rights Program particularly violence against women. This increase Coordinator (NWRPC) who is assisted by 14 regional could be explained by the increase in citizen human women rights officers. The NWRPC channels informa- rights awareness in large part due to the promotion, tion between the AIHRC leadership, to the provincial protection and monitoring work of the AIHRC, an offices. This staffer monitors the implementation of increase in information sharing and dissemination due the AIHRC gender policy ensuring it is being actively to media and access to social media and/or internet. pursued and incorporated within AIHRC programming Elimination of Violence against Women’s Law (EVAW). and initiatives. The Women’s Rights Program Coordi- In the past five years, 8298 cases of gender based nator and Women Rights Officers cooperate with all violence was reported to the AIHRC and only a fraction other program units of the AIHRC. The commission of them were prosecuted by the legal entities of also emphasizes gender parity though the composi- Afghanistan. tion of departments which are comprised of both men and women. Policy Methodology The AIHRC remains committed to the realization of Furthermore, the AIHRC has established a commit- gender equality, as it is a critical barrier to the social, tee on the prevention of work-place harassment, political and economic development of Afghanistan. which is mandated to regularly oversee the working The commission will continue to hone the areas of environment, especially that of female staff members, protection, promotion and the monitoring of human ensuring a safe working condition/environment. This rights in Afghanistan, particularly that of the rights of committee will also investigate complaints of office Afghan women and girls. harassment, making prompt decisions to ensure the safety and well-being of all staffers. The Committee, At an institutional level the AIHRC has ensured the in line with the Law on Elimination of Violence Against rights of women and the representation of women Women (EVAW), the Law on Anti-Harassment and the is made a priority. The commission has ensured AIHRC Gender Policy will guide the AIHRC’s code of that alongside the Chairperson, one commissioner conduct to ensure a secure prevention method for is assigned to assist the promotion and protection sexual harassment at the workplace. This code of of women and girl’s rights. This commissioner will conduct will be widely disseminated throughout the oversee the implementation of the AIHRC strategic AIHRC offices to ensure that all staffers are well aware plan pertaining to the protection and promotion of of acceptable behavior and code of conduct. women’s rights, inclusion of female staff in decision making, enhancing the advocacy role of the AIHRC AIHRC Institutional Gender Principles: in the area of women’s rights and gender develop- 1. The recruitment of women, based on their ment, developing relations with CSO/NGOs working competency and merit; for women’s rights and examining the national policy 2. The AIHRC employs affirmative action in recruit- and strategies, legislations and measures to ensure ing female staff members, based on their the realization of women’s human rights and gender capacity and providing the needed opportuni- equality. ties for female staffers to be able to perform on an equal par with male colleagues; The AIHRC has a strong women’s rights department 3. Supporting and providing higher educational which is committed to monitoring women’s rights and on-the-job skill building facilities for female situation, promoting women rights and gender equali- and male staff members to promote capacity 24 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan building and upward mobility; regime, which denied Afghan women their very basic

4. Ensuring there is gender parity in staff appoint- human rights. The exclusion of women within the ments; social, political and economic sectors of Afghani-

5. Ensuring equal opportunity for both male and stan is still dominant in the geographic areas that are female staffers; controlled by Taliban forces and emerging non-state

6. Considering the gender specific needs for men actors. In an effort to avoid a short-term gain and and women; this includes both maternal and quick-fixed approach towards attaining peace, it is paternal leave after the birth of a child; fundamental that human rights, particularly women’s

7. Encouraging women to take on leadership roles rights and freedoms, are safeguarded and put to the by promoting women to managerial positions; forefront of the negotiation agenda.

8. Ensuring the commission’s employee code of conduct is up to date and well understood by all Afghan Women in Leadership: staffers, with a particular emphasis on gender- Within the Afghan context, only 21 per cent of govern- based discrimination and harassment; ment employees are women. The AIHRC believes that

9. AIHRC conducts sensitization programs for the government of Afghanistan must aim to achieving staffers to prevent gender-based discrimina- a gender balanced cabinet which is representation- tion, to fight patriarchal attitudes, and promote, al of Afghan society. Ensuring the representation, respect and empower women in the public empowerment and participation of Afghan women in space; leadership roles includes that Afghan women and girls

10. Appropriate responses to cases of harass- are equipped with the needed resources and tools to ment and abusive behaviour, particularly succeed in the workplace. This begins with creating a towards female employees by male employees; balanced setting, beginning with the institutionaliza- tion of equal access to leadership opportunities for Key Gender Policy Mandates Afghan women and the needed spousal support for At the national level the AIHRC is committed to Afghan women to be successful in the workplace. advocating, promoting the following gender-based policies: The Afghan government, through strong politi- cally willed initiatives, must continue to incentiv- Women’s participation within the Afghan Peace ize Afghan women to be active participants in the Process: political life of the country. This means to contin- The AIHRC, believes that the active participation of ue employing favorable gender quotas and targets Afghan women within the peace process and negoti- which increase the number of women in political and ation is imperative to securing a long-lasting and public-sector leadership roles. These gender quotas sustainable peace. Currently, there is an underrep- and targets must be implemented with the aspiration resentation of women within the peace process. of not needing them in the immediate future due to Sincere commitments and assurances need to be a normative shift in Afghan society that accepts the made to ensure the presence and active participa- active and meaningful role of women in leadership tion of Afghan women. The commission believes that positions. The AIHRC will work towards ensuring this favorable quotas and targets must be put into place leadership transformation materializes within Afghan- to ensure the representation of women is met and istan because a lack of Afghan women in meaningful that the government and negotiating parties commit decision making and leadership roles undoubtedly to sincerely incorporating the participation of Afghan destabilizes representational state development and women. offers little incentive for future generations of Afghan women to pursue such roles. The importance of including Afghan women into the peace process and negotiations stems from the historical and immediate past practice of the Taliban 25 Promotion of Afghan Women and Girls in Sciences, Inclusive Development Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM): Gender parity is not only a core universal human Of Afghans enrolled in university institutions, only right, but also a key pillar in developing a healthy and 23.5 per cent of these students are women. An functioning state economy. The incorporation of even lower number of Afghan women are enrolled in Afghan women into the formal sectors of the Afghan STEM programs and/or degrees. Afghan women and economy will strengthen the country as a whole. girls must be encouraged to pursue careers in these Although Afghanistan faces many challenges as a academic streams. All humans are equal and should conservative society and the tradition of gender be afforded the freedom to choose and have access separation, Afghan women are slowly being integrated to any field of study and practise of their choice. into the workforce. Gender equality and education are amongst the key components of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Afghan women need to be given the tools to Development and are imperative for the future of financially and economically succeed. This entails Afghan women and girls, ensuring they are given an women being empowered to join the formal sector of active and meaningful role in decision making and the Afghan economy and to be given equal opportu- solution building process. nities to that of their male counterparts. Given the successive years of conflict in Afghanistan, Globally, women are underrepresented in STEM many women have been left widowed and the sole fields due to environmental and social barriers. This breadwinners of their families. Many are unable to includes, but is not limited to, gender-based stereo- enter the workforce due the heavy gender stereo- types, the environment of such departments within types placed upon the role of Afghan women. Thus, academic institutions and the lack of familial and/or educating Afghans and highlighting that women are community support for women to pursue such fields. equally valuable not only to their families but also their Thus, promoting and empowering women to pursue communities and the Afghan economy. STEM studies and/or careers, we combat gender- based stereotypes and discrimination. The all-female The culture and traditions of Afghanistan must Afghan robotics team is a promising sign that there is evolve towards women being included and accepted a real need to promote STEM within Afghan society. in the formal economy. This would ensure that both men and women advance together. Ensuring a gradual The AIHRC believes the Afghan government and incorporation of women into the Afghan economy particularly the Ministry of Education (MoE) and will also narrow the gap between the urban and rural the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) must work areas of the Afghanistan. The AIHRC is committed towards promoting and empowering Afghan girls to promoting, advocating and empowering Afghan to pursue STEM. Afghan public and private sector women to actively enter the workforce and to pursue enterprises within the STEM sectors must be incentiv- both meaningful and quality roles. The commission will ized to hire Afghan women and should be required to monitor the elimination of all forms of discrimination have a female staff quota. The commission, by means against women, violence against women, instanc- of our MoA with the MoE and MoHE, will monitor the es and occurrences of harassment, the structural number of girls graduating from secondary schooling violence women face and barriers prohibiting the to pursue STEM higher education, create a campaign entry and promotion of women in the formal economy. to encourage and recruitment of more Afghan girls to The AIHRC is committed to advancing Afghanistan’s take on STEM majors and to promote positive percep- gender mandate in line with the goals and principles of tions of women in STEM. the UN SDGs. 26 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Elimination of Violence Against Women Since the fall of the Taliban in 2001, the human rights of The phenomena of child marriages is a risk to women Afghan women have significantly improved. However, and girls reproductive health. The AIHRC through violence against Afghan women and instances of monitoring, protection and prevention will ensure abuse, harassment and structural violence continues that appropriate mechanisms will be put in place to to be barriers threatening the human rights of women eliminate the occurrences of child marriage and that in Afghanistan. The Elimination of Violence Against the health system plays a role in this. Ensuring that Women (EVAW) law is a progressive step Afghanistan women and girls have equal and adequate access to has made in ensuring women and girls are protected health care must be made a priority. Afghan women are from violence. The AIHRC firmly promotes a zero-toler- usually not made a priority within their household due ance policy towards any acts of violence, threats and to the patriarchy prevailing in the extended structure intimidation against women and girls. of Afghan families. Therefore, many women suffer from poor obstetric health, sustain prolonged illnesses and The AIHRC will continue to monitor the instances are not treated on time risking fatal circumstances. of cases of violence against Afghan women through- This puts many children at risk of being orphaned and out the country, investigate and follow up on cases being socialized with the notion that women’s access of violence against women, referring such cases to and right to proper health care is not of importance. the appropriate justice mechanisms and produce The AIHRC also will train and monitor health profes- annual reports on the condition of women which will sionals, ensuring that they do not administer virgin- include policy recommendations. The commission will ity tests and that they report instances of virginity continue to promote the empowerment of women testing. This is an important step in building upon and will diversify CSO partnership to ensure initia- the AIHRC’s success in criminalizing forced virginity tives pertaining to education against violence against testing and ensuring the law is being widely practiced women, rehabilitation programs for domestic violence and respected. survivors or those at risk and advocating for alterna- tive sentences for women who have been sentenced to jail-time. Furthermore, the AIHRC will actively and regularly engage with the police, the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Women’s Affairs and justice mechanisms to ensure the capacity, performance and resources of the government and judiciary are in place to fight for the elimination of violence against women. Empowering, Promotion and Monitoring of Women’s Reproductive Rights and Access to Health Care: Women must have ownership and independence over their bodies. The AIHRC believes that women and girls must be educated and empowered with regards to their reproductive rights. In line with SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 5: Gender Equality, the commission believes teaching girls about their reproductive rights and options is imperative in raising a self-aware future generation of Afghan women. Given the commission’s MoU with the MoE, a formalized curriculum must be created where girls are educated about their reproduc- tive rights. 27 AIHRC Child Policy Introduction deported. The two-main entry and exit points the The rights of children are a vital mandate that the commission focusses on is the Afghan border with AIHRC is committed to monitoring, protecting and Pakistan and Iran. Annually, the AIHRC surveys 300 putting in place measures that promote their human children in border areas. Our data has provided key rights. Children are a demographic within Afghanistan insights into the struggles and violations of human whose needs, rights and best-interests are often rights children in these circumstances face. This has overlooked, with poverty exacerbating their ability in allowed the AIHRC to craft conscious and applica- realizing their potential as human beings. The commis- ble policy recommendations to government and civil sion has made it a priority to include the rights and society organizations. best interests of children into the policy and program- ming of the government as part of their responsibility. Promoting children’s rights and in particular their The AIHRC has taken a leading role in outlining Afghani- freedom from punishment is a key focus of the AIHRC. stan’s guiding principles on child policies. The commis- Our Juvenile Justice Program has been successful sion’s two national inquires on Bachi Baazi and Child in ensuring that children’s rights are observed and Labor have already produced results in both criminal- protected in all 34 provinces by means of our 14 izing Bacha Baazi and policy development on the regional offices monitoring, protecting and promot- prevention of child labor in Afghanistan. The AIHRC has ing the welfare and human rights of Afghan children. a nation-wide program on the protection, monitoring, The AIHRC deploys around 250 monitoring missions and promotion of child rights which it will continue to per year to monitor the condition of children in correc- strengthen and implement throughout all thirty-four tional centers. The commission takes surveys from provinces. the child prisoners, monitors their treatment and published our findings which is shared widely with Background relevant stakeholders. The AIHRC has been an active institution in leading and setting the human rights agenda within Afghan- The AIHRC continues to advocate against violence istan, which includes the rights of Afghan children. against children and forms of child abuse which include The commission has a vigorous child field monitor- child labor and the recruitment of child soldiers. The ing program which is active in all fourteen regional commission monitors and reports on instances of offices. This program focuses on surveying children child abuse throughout the country and is sure to within both the rural and urban areas of Afghanistan, report such cases to the appropriate judicial bodies monitoring their basic human rights which includes to ensure Afghan children are given fair and equal their access to health care, food, education and access to justice. The AIHRC continues its child rights justice and freedom from harassment. The AIHRC child education program whereby staffers educate the field monitoring program is the only program of its kind public, CSOs and government bodies about the rights within Afghanistan providing primary qualitative and of children. quantitative data which is important in monitoring the development progress within the country. Around Key Principles: 2500 children are interviewed by the AIHRC annually, The AIHRC has embedded the following key principles as a part of this field monitoring program, representing with relation to the commission’s child policy: a data set from 29 of Afghanistan’s provinces.

1. Treating all Children with Respect and Dignity: The commission’s border monitoring program is The AIHRC trains all staff to be vigilant and mindful also a significant initiative set out by the AIHRC which of children’s rights when conducting their work and monitors children who are trafficked, smuggled or within their personal affairs. This means respecting 28 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan their rights to freedom of speech, freedom of expres- 6. Advocating Against the Physical Abuse of sion and their right to access to justice. Furthermore, Children: in the process of interviewing children AIHRC staffers The AIHRC promotes a zero-tolerance stance towards must be sure an adult guardian is present, ensuring the physical abuse of children within their homes and the safety and rights of children are protected. at school. Afghanistan has unfortunately fostered an environment where it is accepted for teachers

2. Zero Tolerance for Inappropriate Use of Language and parents to physically reprimand their children and Behavior: and students. This type of physical abuse leads to The AIHRC regards any use of inappropriate language detrimental effects for young Afghans and perpetu- or behavior, including sexually suggestive language ates a cycle of abuse. The commission will continue and actions, towards children and those with disabil- to administer education programs for Afghan primary ities as inappropriate, harassment and abusive. The and secondary teachers, educating them about the commission has a zero-tolerance attitude towards harmful effects of their actions and explaining nation- any abuses of this nature and will take the necessary al law that prohibits such behavior. steps towards achieving justice for children. Key Child Rights Issues:

3. Preventing Risks of Danger or Injury for Children: At the national level the AIHRC is committed to The AIHRC will ensure that no children will be harmed advocating and promoting the following child rights or put in potential danger within the scope of our based policies: work and mandate. Ensuring their safety and their ability to exercise their human rights is of the utmost Bacha Baazi: importance for the AIHRC. The AIHRC was the first institution to publish a report on Bachaa Baazi which has been internationally circulat-

4. Strict Policy on the Interaction with Children and ed and cited. Notably, the work of the AIHRC led to Use of Technology: the criminalization of Bachaa Bazi in Afghanistan. The The commission prohibits any staffers from using commission remains firm on advocating against this any forms of technology to harass, exploit and/or phenomena of using underage Afghan boys for sexual inappropriately engage with children. The AIHRC has exploitation. The rights of children must be respected a zero-tolerance and firm stance against the use, and any forms of child abuse, physical, emotional and dissemination and engagement with child pornogra- sexual, must be persecuted by the Afghan judiciary. phy or suggestive explicit material. This also includes In continuing to monitor and advocate against Bacha the use of children’s photos without the consent of Baazi the AIHRC will partner with relevant CSO and their legal guardian or being in the possession of, or International Partners to prevent the continuation of distributing suggestive images, videos or depictions this practice. The commission will continue to provide of children in any form. information and knowledge to relevant stakeholders and educate the public on why Bacha Baazi is not an

5. Zero-Tolerance Towards Child Labor: accepted practice and reinforce the rights of children. The commission has a zero-tolerance attitude towards the illicit use of children for any means of Child Rights Education: labor as outlined by Afghan national law. The commis- The AIHRC actively monitors the rights of children sion remains committed to monitoring instances of and their access to education. According to official child labor and preventing the culture of using children statistics three million Afghan children are deprived for free, cheap and/or exhaustive labor. of education. Eight million Afghan children that attend primary and secondary schools face un-surmounted structural challenges impeding upon their success in school. This includes, a high-statistic of dropouts, absenteeism, lack of textbooks and teachers, poor 29 and inadequate educational materials and proper and commission has published. Furthermore, the AIHRC accessible school facilities. The AIHRC through field will ensure that all cases of child labor that have been monitoring will conduct annually surveys of children’s reported and registered are forwarded to the proper access to education nationwide. These findings will legal bodies. This can ensure enterprises are aware of be made public and shared widely with the relevant the human rights of children and the prohibition of the stakeholders which includes the Ministry of Education, use of child labor as outlined by Afghan law. the government and parliament. Child Trafficking The Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers: The commission will continue to implement its border Afghan children have been amongst the most exploit- monitoring program which monitors children who are ed demographic within the successive years of war trafficked, smuggled or deported at the Pakistani in Afghanistan. They have not only had to bear the and Iranian borders and in between provincial borders burden of growing up in uncertainty and volatility, but within Afghanistan. The AIHRC will produce an annual often many have forcibly been made into active partic- report on the findings which will offer key insights ipants of war, engaging in combat as child soldiers. into the struggles and violations of human rights that The commission has been a staunch advocate against children within these circumstances are subjected to. the use and recruitment of children as soldiers and The AIHRC will craft conscious and applicable policy promotes the strict prohibition of children engaging recommendations to government and civil society and participating in combat with government and organizations that are based on respecting, promoting non-government actors. and protecting the human rights of Afghan children. The AIHRC will continue to monitor the role of In moving a step forward, the AIHRC will expand Afghan children in conflict and will be sure to report its monitoring to surveying children who have been such cases to the relevant government agencies trafficked to see what challenges and dangers they to prevent the occurrences of child participation in faced along the way and understanding how they were combat. Furthermore, the commission, through its initially trafficked. This is a key step the commission MoU with the Afghan National Security and Defense is taking to see how we can prevent instances of Forces, will train state officials on the rights of children child trafficking and pinpoint where the vulnerabilities and the prevention of their recruitment for combat. are for Afghan children. Furthermore, the AIHRC will The commission will share data and information to look to partnering with CSO organizations to create relevant stakeholders about the situation of Afghan a program which can rehabilitate children who have child soldiers. Furthermore, the AIHRC will make all been trafficked, ensuring they receive the proper reports relating to child soldiers’ public through our medical and psychological support needed to succeed online open data system. in reintegrating into Afghan society. This includes ensuring they are relocated with their families or Child Labor: entered into facilities which are responsible for their The AIHRC has a zero-tolerance policy towards child wellbeing. labor and has made sure that no business is exchanged with enterprises that use and/or profit from the use of child labor. By means of the commission’s actions, the AIHRC will advocate for all public and private entities in Afghanistan to respect Afghan law and not promote, profit or use child labor. The commission will partner with CSOs who focus on the monitoring, promotion and prevention of child labor by providing knowledge and reports that the 30 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan AIHRC Person(s) with Disabilities (PwD) Policy Introduction: information sharing with CSOs and government bodies 2.7 per cent of Afghanistan’s population is made up and offer key policy recommendations to the relevant of people with disabilities. Though unfortunately this government bodies. Our regional and provincial offices figure is on the rise due to continued conflict, the AIHRC are also trained to take into consideration cross-cutting remains a strong advocate for the human rights of elements within these reports which include gender, Afghan Person(s) with Disabilities (PwD). The commis- age and level of education which is key in providing sion through monitoring, and research has been publish- varied and representation data sets. Furthermore, the ing reports on the human rights situation of PwDs, which AIHRC has gone a step further and has categorized covers data and information from 27 provinces of the PwDs surveyed by the type of disability they have which country. Our trusted methods and strong regional and allows for a deeper and wider understanding into the PwD provincial representation has allowed the commission to demographic within Afghanistan. provide a varied and accurate account about the barriers in place to PwDs observing and exercising their human With the advocacy of the AIHRC, Afghanistan ratified rights. The AIHRC will continue to monitor, promote and UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabil- protect the human rights of PwDs. ities (CRPD) on 18 September 2012. The AIHRC was the leading institution which translated the convention Background: into four regional languages (Uzbeki, Pashai, Nuristani The constitution of Afghanistan, in Article 53, has and Balochi), brail, Dari and Pashto. In 2010 the AIHRC defined the state’s obligation toward PwDs. It stipulates, prepared an action plan for the ratification of the CRPD “The state shall adopt necessary measures to regulate which was based off of our extensive monitoring and medical services as well as financial aid to survivors of evaluation of PwDs. The Afghan government relies on the martyrs and missing persons, and for reintegration of AIHRC as an advisory and technical body in shaping the the disabled and their active participation in society, country’s disability policies whereby the commission is in accordance with provisions of the law.”1 This consti- sought to set the standards, guidelines and policies for tutional provision also stipulates that, “the state Afghanistan alongside a committee of NGOs. shall guarantee the rights of retirees, and shall render necessary aid to the elderly, women without a caretak- Alongside our in-depth monitoring and reporting of er, disabled, as well as poor orphans, in accordance with PwDs the AIHRC conducts knowledge sharing seminars, provisions with the law.”2 The AIHRC since its inception capacity building workshops and strong promotion and has taken serious and sincere steps in monitoring, empowerment programs focussing on ensuring that the promoting and reporting on the human rights situation of human rights of PwDs are protected and preserved. The PwDs. commission has a strong partnership with regional CSOs to conduct joint educational programming on disability The AIHRC, by establishing this specific department, awareness. The AIHRC also advocates at the nation- has taken a leading role in advocating for the rights of al level for the government and its relevant organs to PwDs by monitoring and reporting on the situation of pursue respecting and integrating PwDs into the Afghan their human rights. The commission produces an annual social, political and economic life of the country. report whereby our provincial offices carry out surveys that are disseminated throughout all of the provinces. Key Principles In gathering a holistic understanding of the situation The AIHRC has embedded the following key principles of PwDs the AIHRC is able to facilitate knowledge and with relation to People(s) with Disabilities Policy:

1. The Constitution of Afghanistan

2. Ibid 31 Affirmative Action inclusion of PwDs in the economy. Furthermore, the PwDs should be treated with respect. The AIHRC will commission believes that enterprises should adopt continue to promote, protect and monitor the situation quotas and targets for the number of PwDs that should of PwDs to ensure they are provided with the needed be hired within an enterprise, as per Afghan law which attention, adequate resources and affordable choices to stipulates 3% of staff population must be PwDs. independently live a dignified life. Access to Education: No discrimination: The AIHRC believes that like all Afghan citizens, PwDs The AIHRC will monitor and investigate any situation must be given equal access to education. Due to the leading to discrimination or wilful barriers made to deprive shame associated with having a mental or physical or discriminate against PwDs in the work place, provision disability, some PwDs do not attend school, being denied of state services and/or in the public space. their right by family and/or extended family wanting to conceal the individual, societal discrimination and Equal Access prevailing stereotypes. The commission will continue to The AIHRC will monitor and promote PwDs rights to monitor and report on the access to education of PwDs, equal access to public services, distribution of econom- safeguarding their human rights and in particular their ic opportunities, land and all means provided by the access to education. Government. The AIHRC will also continue to monitor the physical access of PwDs to public spaces and their Currently, Afghanistan only has three operating access to transportation. primary educational facilities for PwDs that are visually impaired. However, these institutions are constant- Access to Justice, Information and Protection: ly full to capacity and report being unable to meet the PwDs rights to justice, information and protection should needs of students due to underfunding, staff capacity be provided by the Government. The AIHRC will monitor and growing security restrictions. Ensuring that PwDs the rights of PwDs and their access to justice, informa- are able to receive an education, guarantees that they tion and protection. acquire the needed skills to pursue vocational endeav- ors and be productive and proactive members of society, Active Social and Political Participation which inevitably combats poverty, stereotypes associ- Afghan PwDs are often excluded from the public sector ated with disabilities. within Afghanistan due to the taboo mentality of mental and physical disabilities still widely prevalent within Equal Access to Health Care and Social Services: Afghan society. As Afghanistan has gone through The AIHRC believes that a specific social security system successive years of war, which has produced a high must be put in place that can facilitate the rehabilitation number of PwDs, The AIHRC believes that the Afghan and reintegration of PwDs. Unfortunately, Afghanistan government, state institutions and private enterprises still suffers from cases of polio and due to the succes- must commit to meaningfully including PwDs in the public sive years of civil conflict, many Afghan children contin- space and for them to be afforded the same access to ue to be born with birth defects. Furthermore, there is political participation as all Afghan citizens. no infrastructure in place to support Afghans suffering from mental disabilities and/or illness. The commission Inclusive Development: believes there must be an active effort made to ensure The AIHRC believes that PwDs must be given equal PwDs, particularly women, are able to seek adequate access and opportunity to both contribute and be health care and have access to health professionals active participants of the Afghan economy. Inclusive that can diagnose their needs accurately and in a timely economic growth is at the core of a successful Afghan manner. state development process. This includes the partic- ipation and inclusion of PwDs. The AIHRC advocates for public-private-partnerships that can facilitate the 32 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan The AIHRC Environmental Policy Introduction The AIHRC has regularly attended, as a princi- The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commis- ple member, high level meetings at the Afghan High sion (AIHRC) is committed to promoting and observing Commission on Prevention of Environmental Pollution Afghanistan’s environmental law, alongside utilizing (AHCPEP) in regard to environmental protection and international human rights instruments which includes preservation. These high-level meetings produce the the declaration on the protection of the environ- valuable legal framework through which environmen- ment and in line with UN SDG 13: Climate Action. This tal protection will be carried out within Afghanistan. policy position has also taken into account the Paris Notably, the AIHRC trained the staffers of the AHCPEP Agreements which sets out the global agenda in on human rights and environment. The commission preventing further danger to our planet by means of remains committed in being an active participant in the climate change. environmental dialogue and policy making of Afghan- istan, to ensure that future generations have a viable Background and sustainable environment to live in. Protecting the environment is vital in realizing universal human rights. As stipulated in the Stockholm and Rio Principles: Declarations on environment and development, and The AIHRC advocates for the following principles also other UN treaties, the three principles in protecting 1. The AIHRC is committed to knowledge and and preserving our planet are the right to participation, information sharing with all relevant stakehold- right to information and right to redress. The AIHRC has ers, with particular attention to environmental been committed to both promoting and observing these initiatives. The commission is always keen on principles. Afghanistan has also taken steps towards building partnerships that would be of positive environmental protection with its law on environment benefit to the Afghan people. This includes, but and waste management which was ratified in 2007 and is not limited to, offering knowledge on best its imposed regulation on the decrease and prevention practices for the construction of offices. The of air pollution in 2009. AIHRC’s headquarters is a model for sustainable building construction and operation. The AIHRC is proud to highlight that Afghanistan ratified the Paris Agreements on 15 February 2017 and 2. The AIHRC, prior to initiating a construction formally enforced the treaty on 17 March 2017. Afghan- project, will conduct a local stakeholder meeting istan’s percentage of greenhouse gasses for ratifica- and provide a stakeholder mapping which will tion is 0.05 percent. In line with the Paris Agreement take into account the environmental impact. The and Afghanistan’s commitment to this international commission is committed to projects that initiate treaty, the AIHRC continues to be an ally in environ- little to no negative environmental externali- mental protection, aiming to keep global warming below ties. To reinforce our legitimacy with the Afghan 2oC, and supports the recommendations put forth by people, all documents will be made available to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). the public and a response mechanism will be put The AIHRC encourages the Afghan government to take into place that can appropriately and in a timely into consideration the three guiding principles of the manner respond to all stakeholder demands. agreement and reach a national environmental mandate that is: universal and legally binding, fair and differenti- 3. In remaining conscious of the environment we ated, sustainable and dynamic. operate in, the AIHRC will register petitions from local stakeholders and will take earnest approach- es in investigating environmental damage being inflicted by third parties. This includes working 33 closely with local and international environmen- allocated for agriculture, forests, or land needed to tal CSOs, empowering their mission and assist- protect and promote the rich biodiversity of Afghan- ing their work through knowledge sharing. istan. In further emphasizing our commitment, the commission will pursue eco-friendly and sustainable Key Environmental Issues construction models for future development sights and Loss of Biodiversity and Long-Term Damage to Ecosys- will advocate for all government and non-government tems bodies to take a similar stance. The AIHRC will always, prior to start of any construction project or when monitoring human rights within Afghan- Waste Production istan, will be conscious of our eco-footprint, ensuring In promoting a clean and sustainable environment, the we follow international protocol set out by the IPCC. The AIHRC has implemented a strict and responsible waste commission will remain committed to preserving the management policy at our headquarters, our region- biodiversity of Afghanistan and opting for sustainable al offices, and within our employee code of conduct. approaches to human rights advocacy and develop- All offices and staffers are prohibited from littering ment. and must respect the environment within which they operate in. Furthermore, staffers are to be environmen- Air Pollution tal ambassadors advocating within their local communi- The AIHRC, in line with the Paris Agreement’s core ties proper and responsible waste disposal methods. mandate of ensuring global warming remains below 2oC and Afghanistan’s goal of ratifying 0.05% of global greenhouse gas emissions, will ensure that all projects carried out by the commission do not negatively impact the air quality of the regions in which we operate in. The commission is committed to moving towards not using generators for electricity purposes. Furthermore, the commission will allocate a specific budget for cleaning and reforestation initiatives. Damage to Aquatic Ecosystems The Afghan people and the AIHRC understand the importance of water as both a resource and commod- ity. The commission will not initiate nor endorse any project(s) that are known to potentially harm the aquatic ecosystem or hinder citizens access to potable drinking water. The AIHRC is against fracking, the construction of illegal wells and projects that knowingly put the environment at risk. Access to safe drinking water for citizens and water sanitation programs will remain key objectives for the AIHRC, with local approaches remain- ing at the heart of our strategy and mission. Land Degradation Ensuring a sustainable use of land and resources is a key focus for the AIHRC’s activities. The commission is against the initiation of any project that would inflict irreversible land degradation. In committing to this the AIHRC has not, and will not, build any offices on land 34 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Baselines, Targets & Strategic Interventions Strategic Objective One: Leadership The AIHRC as an independent and influential institution in the areas of monitoring, protection and promotion of human rights is respected and holds a leadership role at the national and international level. Box 12: Objectives 1.1 and Indicators Objective 1.1: Human rights discourse in Afghanistan through active engagement, commitment and partici- pation of stakeholders at the local, national and international level and utilization of the opportunities, mecha- nisms, procedures and mass media is strengthened and safeguarded. Indicator 1.1.1: Degree to which human rights are observed throughout the peace process, which includes the presence of women and victims of human rights violations. Baselines: • No human rights clause were included in the peace agreement between the GoIRA and Hizb Islami peace accord • No accountability mechanism is defined for the accountability of war crimes and human rights violations during war between parties to the current conflict • The action plan of 1325 is approved • There 10 women including the deputy of high peace council serving the peace, • 4 women serves as minister and over 12 as deputy ministers. Numerous women served as the ambassa- dors to different countries • Only one national inquiries were conducted on victims of terrorism and 21 of august was put in calendar to celebrate the victims of terrorism day Targets: • The future accords will have a human rights, women rights and accountability clause • The action plan of 1325 is implemented and a report is released • At least prominent women in each province are consulted about peace process • Women positions at the top will be improved and 30 percent of civil servants will be composed of women • Women continue to represent Afghanistan abroad • Victims are compensated by the GoIRA and by the parties to the conflict through the approval of the law of compensations Strategic Interventions:

1. Launching two national programs on peace, women and human rights in coalition with civil society organi- zations, academic institutions, national and international organizations

2. Conduct a survey measuring women’s participation in local decision-making processes including devel- opment projects, budget preparation and provision of public services Implementer: The chairperson, Commissioners, Executive Director, Coordinators and head of regional and provincial offices. 35 Indicator 1.1.2: Degree to which the AIHRC’s presence and reflection of its views appears in the national and international press. Baselines: • Annually 5 conferences have been held in the past 5 years • The AIHRC released 483 press releases and statements were released by the AIHRC • The AIHRC appeared and gave 86393 minutes of media interviews and comments Targets: • By 2023, the AIHRC maintain press conferences to annually 5 press conferences • The AIHRC will react and promptly make its position known on any major human rights issues by issuing press releases • The AIHRC will increase its presence on media and reach out to people through this means Strategic Interventions:

1. Reflect and publish statements, announcements, reports and positions of the AIHRC through regular use of press conferences, media interviews, and publishing articles at the national and international levels

2. Active participation, presentation of commission viewpoints and positions at international meetings, conferences and dialogues Implementer: Chairperson and the AIHRC representative. Indicator 1.1.3: Degree of progress of Afghanistan’s engagement and interaction with the International Crimi- nal Court (ICC) and other prominent human rights and treaty bodies within the United Nations system. Baselines: • The AIHRC is a prominent and a leading authority on human rights appearing frequently in local media • The AIHRC attends and contributes to all important and leading human rights forum nationally, and at the global level • The AIHRC is an A status NHRI and member of APF and GANHRI • An International conference was held on accountability, justice and human rights • A draft law on cooperation of the GoIRA and ICC is drafted by the AIHRC • Afghanistan has submitted its UPR in the past • Afghanistan submitted reports to the Committee against torture, CRC committee, CEDAW committee and ESCRs committee Targets: • The AIHRC will remain a prominent and leading authority on human rights in Afghanistan • The AIHRC continue to attend all GANHRI, APF and UN meetings • The AIHRC will retain it’s A status • Islamic Conference and UN will remain engaged on the Civilian Causalities • The Law on cooperation of the GoIRA and ICC is approved • Afghanistan submit its UPR to the HRC • Afghanistan Submits its reports to the committee of convention against racial discrimination, and com- mittee of conventions on rights of people with disabilities • Afghanistan submits its report to committee of CEDAW • AIHRC submits public submissions and shadow reports to the UN treaty bodies and Human Rights Council 36 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Strategic Interventions:

1. Conduct national and international conferences covering pertinent human rights issues in cooperation with inter- national institutions including the United Nations, the Organization of the Islamic Conference and other regional and international institutions

2. Provision of practical and enforceable recommendations to the Government of Afghanistan, the ICC and other human rights mechanisms on women, victims of human rights and the prosecution of human rights violators Implementer: The AIHRC chair, Commissioners and Executive Director. Box 13: Objective 1.2 and Indicators Objective 1.2: The Afghanistan human rights agenda is set by the AIHRC and widely reflected at the interna- tional level; Indicator 1.2.1: Degree of change in relation to the occurrence of violence against Afghan women, in compari- son to the situation of women in neighboring countries. Baselines: • There is annually 5000 cases of violence against women registered • 4 women ministers and 12 deputy ministers, 2 mayors and 2 district governors are appointed. 456 women run for parliamentary elections out of 2522 candidates • Afghanistan has 5 women ambassadors and several general councilors • The EVAW law is kept as a special law • A new position at the level of deputy attorney general is established • A new EVAW tribunal is established by Supreme court Targets: • There will be a comparison studies in situation of women in the region, projecting and measuring Afghan women progress on elimination of violence against women and a report will be published annually • The level of violence against women would not increase, from 5000 cases, but there are more frequent and free reports of violence against women • The 20 days campaign against violence against women will cause an effective public attention on violence against women, • The EVAW law will be implemented and reported • The prosecutors are trained on EVAW law and CEDAW • The Court function in 15 provinces Strategic Interventions:

1. A national campaign raising public awareness on the elimination of violence against women

2. Conducting national inquiries on violence against women

3. Collecting data on the implementation of SDGs by the Afghan government especially on goal number five: gender equality and goal number sixteen: peace, justice and strong institutions

4. Present findings on major human rights issues at national and international conferences Implementer: Women Rights Coordinator, and Women’s Rights Unit. 37 Indicator 1.2.2: Mechanisms established by the Afghan government for the protection of victims of human rights violations. Baselines: • The Anti-torture commission is established and functioning, • Several national inquiries have been conducted, Targets: • By 2023, The Anti-torture commission will be recognized as a preventive national mechanism against torture, • Two more national inquiries will be conducted, • The justice mechanism will include victims in the proceedings against perpetrators, • Compensation mechanisms are established based on the law of compensation • By 2023, the new phase of transitional justice will be implemented and a report will be out Strategic Interventions:

1. Collecting data on the implementation of SDGs by the Afghan government especially on goal number sixteen: peace, justice and strong institutions

2. Present findings on major human rights issues at national and international conferences Implementer: The AIHRC Coordinators and Program Units. Indicator 1.2.3: Degree to which the government has paid attention to the improvements of the human rights situation of children, persons with disabilities and IDPs, Baselines: • The law and policies of protection of children is drafted, • The law of People rights with disability is approved and is enforceable • The policy of IDPs is in place Targets: • The law on protection of children is approved, • The comprehensive code of children is approved • The support program for assisting children, people with disabilities and IDPs are in place • The law of people with disability is amended • The policy of IDP is implemented Strategic Intervention: Conducting national inquiries on children, persons with disabilities and IDPs Implementer: Coordinators and Program Units of Child Rights, Persons with Disabilities Rights, and Monitoring and Investigation. 38 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Indicator 1.2.4: Degree to which the right to the healthy living environment is observed and protected by the government. Additionally, sustainable mechanisms are created to prevent excessive use of water. Baselines: • The law of environment is approved • The high commission on environment is established • The action plan on implementation of SDGs is approved Targets: • The law of the environment and the law of waste management is implemented • The High Commission on environment protection is more active • The action plan on SDGs is implemented Strategic Interventions:

1. Conducting monitoring and survey to measure protection of the environment and access to potable drinking water

2. Training to the members of high commission on protection of environment is conducted Implementer: The research and monitoring and investigation Unit, Legal advisor and the Regional Managers. Box 14: Objective 1.3 and Indicators Objective 1.3: The effective and meaningful presence of the AIHRC at the national and international levels is continued and maintained. Indicator 1.3.1: The degree to which the Afghan government commits to implementing the commission’s rec- ommendations. Baselines: • The government of Afghanistan implements 32% of the AIHRC recommendations. The AIHRC placed 1441 rec- ommendations to be implemented to by the government and only 472 recommendations have been implemented Targets: • The AIHRC will continue to follow up and advocate on implementation of the AIHRC recommendations. The AIHRC by end of 2023 expects to place over 2000 recommendations and 60% of them will be implemented Strategic Interventions:

1. Active leadership and participation within advocacy and coordination networks at local, national and international levels Implementer: The AIHRC Chair and Commissioners and regional Managers. 39 Indicator 1.3.2: Degree of amendments made and the prevention of the enforcement of laws, policies and other legal documents that violate human rights. Baselines: • The AIHRC reviewed and took part on over 200 laws and regulations • The AIHRC is a principle member of the legislative committee Targets: • All laws and regulations and policies that are drafted would be reviewed by the AIHRC • The AIHRC continues to attend legislative committee Strategic Interventions: • By 2023, the AIHRC will have 5 laws to be drafted, amended or changed Implementer: The Commissioners and the legal advisor, Program Coordinators. Indicator 1.3.3: Degree and the manner of participation, leadership and national and international joint efforts. Baselines: • Advocacy meetings: the AIHRC has attended and initiated over 2259 advocacy meetings at the provincial and national level • The International Meetings: The AIHRC is regularly attending the GANHRI, UNHRC, APF and other international meetings Targets: • The AIHRC will make more advocacy meetings and by 2023, the meetings will rise up to 3000 • The AIHRC will attend all UNHRC related to Afghanistan • All treaty bodies meeting related to Afghanistan • All GANHRI and APF meetings • All OHCHR meetings • The AIHRC will submit shadow reports to treaty bodies periodically and attend the events related to Afghanistan Strategic Interventions:

1. Active leadership and participation within advocacy and coordination networks at local, national and international levels

2. Taking a leading role in managing the Commission for the Prohibition of Torture

3. Active participation of the AIHRC in the meetings of GANHRI, APF and other prominent regional and international organizations Implementer: The Chairperson, Commissioners, Coordinators and regional program managers, and program Units. 40 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Indicator 1.3.4: The prevention of human rights violators from being appointed into top government positions. Baselines: • An advisory body to the president on the senior appointment was led by the AIHRC Targets: • The advisory board will be reactivated and all senior appointments will be reviewed and vetted • The AIHRC will produce annual reports on the performance of the government on the recruitment of government officials based on merit and human rights reputations Strategic Interventions:

1. An attempt to establish a high-level presidential advisory board which will identify and prevent the appointment of a government official, at any level, guilty of human rights violations Implementer: The Chairperson and Commissioners 41 Baselines, Targets & Strategic Interventions Strategic Objective Two: Promotion and Empowerment Human rights have been promoted at the level of individuals, communities, institutions and national plans. Individ- uals are able to exercise their human rights and institutions are able to fulfill their obligations to observe, protect and promote human rights. Box 15: Objectives 2.1 and Indicators Objective 2.1: The knowledge, skills, understanding and capacity of individuals and institutions in observing, respecting and improving the situation of human rights in Afghanistan is enhanced by the AIHRC’s education and promotion initiatives. Indicator 2.1.1: Increased demand by both government and non-governmental institutions for the AIHRC to conduct human rights training programs. Baselines: • The AIHRC has been asked and training the MoI, MoD, NDS and MoE, MoHE, MoRRD, Parliament and IDLG • In 1396 or annually: • 3590 cadres and cadets of the national defense and security forces were trained • 7 MoUs have been signed with different government institution • 724 judges and prosecutors were trained • 624 Human Rights defenders were trained • 400 journalists were trained • 4000 people were trained from different walk of life • 4200 university students were trained • 21440 people’s covered by direct half day awareness raising programs Targets: • The AIHRC continue training the MoD, ANA, MoI, ANP, NDS and Government employees at all level • By the end of 2023, number of ANA, ANP and NDS trained will increase to 12000 • 2000 Judges and prosecutors were trained • 1200 human rights defenders would be trained • 800 journalists trained • 8400 university students trained • 22000 people will be covered by direct awareness program of the AIHRC Strategic Interventions:

1. Conducting human rights education for health care providers and educators

2. Raising awareness and engaging with women, youth and local inhabitants on cultural heritage and its preserva- tion

3. Creating tailored human rights education for women, youth and children

4. Organizing one-day conferences to commemorate national and international human rights events

5. Producing and broadcasting radio and television programs focusing on disseminating the core ideals of universal human rights

6. Producing and widely distributing monthly human rights publications, videos and actively utilizing social media channels Implementer: The IHL training departments, Human Rights Education Unit and Regional Offices. 42 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Indicator 2.1.2: The increase or decrease in the number of complaints against judicial organs and defense and security forces. Baselines: • The AIHRC receive round 7200 complains annually Targets: • The AIHRC will record a decreased or increased number of complains • By 2023, the AIHRC will investigate, follow up and close all cases referred to the AIHRC • It is expected to receive 7000 complains annually Strategic Interventions:

1. Conducting human rights education for defense and security institutions

2. Conducting human rights education for judges and prosecutors Implementer: Coordinators and Regional Offices. Indicator 2.1.3: An increase in the number of human rights ambassadors and defenders within the provincial districts. Baselines: • Currently the AIHRC has registered 580 human rights defenders at the national, provincial and district level • Targets: • The AIHRC expects the number of HR defenders to be doubled during the period • We aim to have 1200 human rights defenders at the national level • Strategic Interventions:

1. Raising awareness and engaging with women, youth and local inhabitants on cultural heritage and its preservation

2. Creating tailored human rights education for women, youth and children

3. The establishment of volunteer human rights councils at the district level in both rural and urban areas within Afghanistan Implementer: Coordinators and Regional Offices. 43 Box 16: Objectives 2.2 and Indicators Objective 2.2: Human rights concepts and values ​​are included in national policies and programs and within the curriculum of education and training centers throughout the country. Indicator 2.2.1: The degree and scope of inclusion of human rights, women’s rights, peace and justice within the educational curriculum at the primary, secondary and higher education levels. Baselines: • Currently school text books are reviewed and human rights are part of the school text books Targets: • The school text books will be further reviewed and women rights, peace, justice and respect for human rights, and rights of people with disability will be further included in the text books • The curriculum will reflect human rights, women rights, peace and justice and rights of people with disabilities Strategic Interventions:

1. Signing a memorandum of agreement with the Ministry of Higher Education, national and private universities and institutions of higher education Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinator of Human Rights Education. Indicator 2.2.2: The degree to which human rights centered subjects are taught at national and private higher educational institutions. Baselines: • Currently human rights subject is being thought at 51 higher education institutes and universities • Annually 51 MoUs are signed with Higher Education Institutes and universities Targets: • Human Rights will be thought at all higher education institutes and universities • 57 universities and higher education institutes will teach human rights • Human rights will be mainstreamed through all academic work and literatures Strategic Interventions:

1. Creating and teaching human rights-based courses in national and private universities

2. Strengthening the current MoU with the Ministry of Education to include human rights, women’s rights and child rights within the educational curriculum and ensuring the current educational curriculum is in line with the princi- ples of universal human rights

3. Prepare and develop a human rights and international humanitarian curriculum for security and defense institu- tions Implementer Commissioners and Coordinator of Human Rights Education. 44 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 17: Objectives 2.3 and Indicators Objective 2.3: The capacity of individuals, government agencies, civil society organizations, media outlets is enhanced and becomes a catalyst for change and the enjoyment of human rights by Afghan citizens; Indicator 2.3.1: Degree of participation and implementation of human rights activities by the AIHRC’s civil so- ciety partner institutions. Baselines: • The AIHRC has MoUs with over 31 CSOs active on the area of human rights • Limited Number of CSOs has the capacity to partner on human rights education with the AIHRC Targets: • The number of projects implemented by the CSOs will increase by 10% annually • The AIHRC will build the capacity and hand over projects to annually 2 CSOs • 360 human rights councils at the district levels of 34 provinces will be established and trained Strategic Interventions:

1. Holding human rights education for civil society organizations, journalists and clergy members

2. Provide three-month capacity-building trainings, research and internship opportunities for civil society activists, media and graduates of universities Implementer: Commissioners and Regional Offices. Indicator 2.3.2: Degree to which referrals are made, complaints are reported and cooperation is sought by the government and non-governmental organizations. Baselines: • In 1396, the AIHRC received: • A, 1816 letters, recommendations and referrals and follow up made to the commission • 2, 785 letters and correspondents of cooperation requests and invitation to assist were received Targets: • By 2023, the AIHRC will expect • To keep the level of cooperation at the current 1396 level annually • Increase by 10% of its correspondents and degree of cooperation Strategic Interventions: • Advocacy meetings, Publishing reports, and recommendations, • Standard and quality services • More meetings and talk with Government agencies with clear aim to enhance their responsibilities Implementer: Commissioners, coordinators and regional managers. 45 Indicator 2.3.3: Degree to which human rights issues are observed or reflected in the media. Baselines: • Currently human rights is reflected on all major media on a weekly bases • In 1396, 61 times the AIHRC was named, cited and referenced to by media • 182 times the AIHRC • Activities were reflected or broad cast by media • 554 articles were published or focused on human rights on print and internet based media • The AIHRC conducted 814 media interviews • Over 8000 minutes of radio and TV program allocated to human rights annually Targets: • Number of articles or reports on Media will increase by 10% • The AIHRC will be frequent and prominent face of human rights face on media • The AIHRC will reach out to Afghanistan citizen by using media Strategic Interventions:

1. Cooperation and partnership with media outlets, ensuring they are given accurate and substantive infor- mation about the human rights situation within Afghanistan bringing together both media and democracy

2. Producing and broadcasting radio and television programs focusing on disseminating the core ideals of universal human rights Implementer: Commissioners, coordinators and regional managers. 46 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 18: Objectives 2.4 and Indicators Objective 2.4: Innovative and quality human rights services are provided by the AIHRC with both national and international standards being considered. Indicator 2.4.1: Increased number of AIHRC’s visitors, clients and stakeholders. Baselines: • In 1395, 1396, The AIHRC received: 25628 complainants, victims and their companies to its offices • 13003 visitors • 10036 people visited the AIHRC to study and conduct research using the AIHRC resource centers Targets: • The number of the AIHRC visitors will increase by 10 % • By 2023, the AIHRC will receive annually over 12000 people to bring complains • 15000 to visit and 15000 to use the AIHRC resource centers Strategic Interventions: 1. Strengthen and continue to actively use the AIHRC webpage and social media outlets

2. Ensure all offices are equipped with the necessary technology needed to conduct activities Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators. Indicator 2.4.2: Both the external and internal evaluation results of the implementation of the AIHRC’s Strate- gic Plan. Baselines: • The AIHRC has been audited and evaluated by the external evaluators and auditors, and the results were satisfactory, to excellent Targets: • The AIHRC will conduct and keep the evaluation • The AIHRC will conduct • 5 financial audits • 2 evaluations • and 5 internal evaluation and internal financial audits Strategic Interventions:

1. Monitor and evaluate the programs and administrative activities of the commission

2. Conduct both an internal and external audit program

3. Monitor and evaluate the programs and administrative activities of the commission

4. Conduct both an internal and external audit program

5. Conduct annual AIHRC staff reviews and ensure an accurate internal assessment is performed

6. Implement a physical inventory plan for AIHRC’s goods and assets in regional and provincial offices

7. Assess the degree to which the strategic plan is implemented (to be carried out by an external evaluator)

8. Survey and evaluate the context for establishing a National Human Rights Institute (the first of its kind in Afghanistan) and a national human rights television program Implementer: Executive Director, MERU and Coordinators. 47 Indicator 2.4.3: Degree to which the AIHRC’s print and internet publications are utilized. Baselines: • In 1396, the AIHRC published 240000 volumes of magazines, and distributed • webpage is reviewed by 200000 people annually, • The AIHRC Facebook has 60000 likes, Targets: • By 2023, the AIHRC will publish: 1000000 volumes of magazine • The AIHRC webpage and downloads will increase by 10% • The AIHRC Facebook likes increased to 100000 Strategic Interventions:

1. Prepare and publish the AIHRC’s six-month and annual reports

2. Survey and evaluate the context for establishing a National Human Rights Institute (the first of its kind in Afghanistan) and a national human rights television program

3. Producing and widely distributing monthly human rights publications, videos and actively utilizing social media channels Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators. Indicator 2.4.4: Stakeholder degree of satisfaction with AIHRC programming and performance. Baselines:

1. In 1396, the number of participants to the AIHRC programs and referral to the AIHRC and number of com- plainant bringing complains and petitions have increased by 32 percent compared to the 1393 Targets:

1. The number of people referring to the AIHRC, bringing cases and attending our meetings and programs will raise by 10%,

2. The number of people filled the AIHRC evaluation and result sheet surveys will increase by 10% Strategic Interventions:

1. Strengthen and continue to actively use the AIHRC webpage and social media outlets

2. Ensure all offices are equipped with the necessary technology needed to conduct activities

3. Review the AIHRC’s organizational structure in accordance with the new strategic plan; incorporating change management techniques to ensure maximum efficacy and output is delivered

4. Review the current data collection systems of the AIHRC and develop new systems where needed, ensur- ing the commission is utilizing advance data collection and analysis mechanisms

5. Conduct an annual conference to review and approve the Annual Action Plan

6. Monitor and evaluate the programs and administrative activities of the commission

7. Conduct both an internal and external audit program

8. Conduct annual AIHRC staff reviews and ensure an accurate internal assessment is performed

9. Implement staff capacity building programs which will be made available to all AIHRC offices

10. Design, compile and review regulations, guidelines and other administrative documents 11.1 Prepare and publish the AIHRC’s six-month and annual reports 12.1 Implement a physical inventory plan for AIHRC’s goods and assets in regional and provincial offices 13.1 Assess the degree to which the strategic plan is implemented (to be carried out by an external evaluator) 14.1 Develop a strategic plan for the next five-year planning period

15. Survey and evaluate the context for establishing a National Human Rights Institute (the first of its kind in Afghanistan) and a national human rights television program Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators. 48 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Baselines, Targets & Strategic Interventions Strategic Objective Three: Monitoring and Protection Human rights and freedoms of Afghan citizens are protected and respected in the laws, policies and practices of the responsible institutions as a result of the effective and continuous monitoring of the AIHRC. Box 19: Objectives 3.1 and Indicators Objective 3.1: The AIHRC’s continuous, targeted and effective monitoring, using new technologies and meth- ods, protects human rights and prevents human rights abuses; Indicator 3.1.1: Prisoners who are illegally detained and identified by the AIHRC are released. Baselines: • In 1396, the AIHRC identified and released 300 illegally detained people Targets: • The AIHRC will work with the police and prosecutors that no citizens are detained without charges • The number will decline from the 300 to 150 annually • The capacity and prosecutor general office Strategic Interventions:

1. Create an online monitoring system which is capable of receiving complaints and ensuring up to date data- bases are maintained

2. Continuous and targeted monitoring of Afghan detention centers, women prisons and juvenile centers, shelters, hospitals, and orphanages

3. Monitor the implementation of the presidential decree on the pardon and commutation of sentences. Pre- pare a list of women prisoners who are charged of immoral crimes to be pardoned and or their prison time be changed to a prison substitute Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators of the Monitoring and Investigation and Ombudsman Office, and Regional Offices. Indicator 3.1.2: Witnessing a reduction in the number of cases of torture and abuse of prisoners. Baselines: • The last AIHRC record shows 79 cases of torture in 2017 • No perpetrators committed crimes of torture are tried and sentenced Targets: • This number will decrease to below 40 or any increase in the number will be verified and reported • Every perpetrator of crime of torture are brought to justice Strategic Interventions: 1. Continuous and targeted monitoring of Afghan detention centers, women prisons and juvenile centers, shelters, hospitals, and orphanages

2. Monitoring the practices of defense and security institutions

3. Taking a leading role in managing the Commission for the Prohibition of Torture Implementer: Chairperson, Commissioners, Executive Director and all offices. 49 Indicator 3.1.3: Women and girls have equal, adequate, and affordable access to education and health ser- vices. Baselines: • Currently there are 9 million children are in school. 35 % of them are girls • 3 million children are out of school which • 60% of women don’t have access to health care Targets: • The age and grades of girls that attend school are increased • Provision of healthcare to women are adequate, accessible and affordable • The percentage of women have access to health care is 65% Strategic Interventions: Strengthening the women rights monitoring and protection program by expanding its task to monitor and sur- vey women and girls access to health and education Monitor and ensure that the national budget is both balanced and equally distributed. The budget would be re- viewed on the bases gender and the needs of children Implementer: Chairperson, Commissioners and Child Rights Unit. 50 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Indicator 3.1.4: Reduction of violence against women and children. Baselines: • Annually around 5000 kind of violence against women are registered • Around 1200 cases of violence against women are prosecuted and followed up under the EVAW law • The number of violence against children are unknown and a fraction of it around 700 cases are registered • The AIHRC conducts monitoring to hospitals, shelters, and women detention centers and annually con- ducts over 800 monitoring missions Targets: • By 2023, the AIHRC will expand its reach and capacity to register and follow up all cases of violence against women • The AIHRC will monitor the implementation of the EVAW law in 22 provinces by prosecutors and EVAW tri- bunal, • All cases that are processed by the EVAW tribunal will be reported • AIHRC will monitor the performance of the EVAW tribunals in all provinces and its expansions from14 prov- inces to 22 provinces • The AIHRC will conducts monitoring missions to hospitals, shelters and women detention centers • The AIHRC publish two annual reports on situation of violence against women and situation of women • The AIHRC will monitor the situation of children in conflict with law in correction centers and implement 400 field monitoring missions annually • The AIHRC will continue its border monitoring and field monitoring missions Strategic Interventions:

1. Continuous and targeted monitoring of Afghan detention centers, women prisons and juvenile centers, shelters, hospitals, and orphanages

2. Monitoring the situation of women serving in police, ANA, and the NDS and investigate their complaints and petitions against their institutions

3. Strengthening the women rights monitoring and protection program by expanding its task to monitor and survey women and girls access to health and education 4.4 Monitor the implementation of the presidential decree on the pardon and commutation of sentences Prepare a list of women prisoners who are charged of immoral crimes to be pardoned and or their prison time be changed to a prison substitute 5.5 Monitor and ensure that the national budget is both balanced and equally distributed. The budget would be reviewed on the bases gender and the needs of children

6. Publishing thematic, research and monitoring reports on thematic human rights issues, women, girls and children 7.7 Provide shadow reports to United Nations Human Rights mechanisms and treaty bodies, including CE- DAW and CRC Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators, Regional and Provincial offices. 51 Indicator 3.1.5: Improved access to opportunities, services and care for peoples with disabilities, the elderly and IDPs. Baselines: • The Convention of rights of the people with disabilities are approved • The law of people with disability is approved • People with disabilities are provided with land slot and apartments • A survey of situation of elderly was conducted in 2012 • In 1395 and 1396, the AIHRC place over 252 recommendations to government on rights of people with disabilities Targets: • The convention of people rights with disability is monitored in all 29 provinces • The law of people with disability will be amended • Data about the People with disabilities will be updated and disseminated • The law on protection of elderly people are drafted • The AIHRC will follow with government to recommend all AIHRC recommendations on the rights of people with disabilities • Annually there will be a report on situation of people rights with disabilities produced and published Strategic Interventions:

1. Monitoring rights to freedom of assembly, access to public services and the situation of elderly citizens and IDPs

2. The AIHRC will conduct a survey and partner with CSOs on article 19, 21 and 27 of CPRDs

3. Monitor how the Afghan government implements the recommendations of UN human rights mechanisms Implementer: Commissioner and Coordinator of the PWD. 52 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 20: Objectives 3.2 and Indicators Objective 3.2: The impacts of human rights violations of individuals and vulnerable groups, including women, children, and disabled people, are identified and addressed by the commission’s investigation and verification system. Indicator 3.2.1: Reduced / Increased number of visitors and complaints received by the AIHRC. Baselines: • In 1395 and 1396, 25832 and 22853 people visited the AIHRC respectively and 25628 of them were vic- tims or complainants • In 1395 and 1396, The AIHRC received over 15298 complains and petitions Targets: • The AIHRC aim to increase the number of visitors to its offices, programs, and website by 20% • By 2023, all complaints will be registered, processed and closed within a reasonable timeframe Strategic Interventions:

1. Registering, processing, documentation and the follow up of complaints of violations of human rights and violence against women, children and other vulnerable groups Implementer: Commissioners and Regional and Provincial Offices. Indicator 3.2.2: The degree to which AIHRC recommendations and referred cases are addressed by the relevant legal authorities. Baselines: • In 1396, the AIHRC has placed and issued 1441 recommendations • 472, recommendations are implemented • of the 5600 cases of human rights violations that were referred to the justice mechanisms in 1395 and 1396, 1590 cases were resolved Targets: • The AIHRC will keep the number of recommendations to be implemented over 50% • By 2023, all complaints referred to justice mechanism will be solved Strategic Interventions:

1. Supporting and advocating for the victims of human rights abuses, violence against women and children and other vulnerable groups. Furthermore, introducing them to supporting institutions Implementer: Commissioners, and Coordinators, and Regional and Provincial Office Managers. 53 Indicator 3.2.3: Degree to which the cases of violence against women, children, journalists and human rights defenders are followed up by law enforcement agencies. Baselines: • 3488 cases of violence against women are prosecuted by the justice mechanism, • Number of cases of violence against journalists that were prosecuted are very few than 5 cases • And there is no data on how many cases of violence against children are followed up. Only one officer was dismissed of the case of Bacha bazi Targets: • The number of cases of violence against women would be 70% of cases referred to the justice and legal entities • All allegations against violators of human rights of Journalists and the child rights abusers will be prosecut- ed Strategic Interventions:

1. Registration, investigation and the follow up of human rights defenders’, women rights activists and CSOs complaints and ensuring their protection Implementer: Commissioner and Coordinator of Women Rights Unit and Regional and Provincial Program Managers. 54 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Box 21: Objectives 3.3 and Indicators Objective 3.3: Human rights are protected by enacting, amending, and modifying the laws, regulations and legal instruments through legal guarantees, conducting investigations and presenting recommendations to the ap- propriate national and international actors. Indicator 3.3.1: Number of laws and legal resources reviewed and approved in accordance with human rights standards. Baseline: • The AIHRC reviewed over 200 laws and placed recommendations on 12 laws Targets: • The AIHRC will review and work with the legislative committee that all laws and regulations will have compli- ance with the international human rights norms Strategic Interventions:

1. Active participation in drafting committees to amend laws, regulations, bills, policies, and national pro- grams. Furthermore, submitting proposals for the inclusion of human rights standards within the content of these documents

2. Conduct coordination meetings with legislative bodies Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators and Legal advisor. Indicator 3.3.2: Number of AIHRC recommendations accepted for the amendments of Afghan laws and policies. Baselines: • In 270 laws and regulations that are reviewed, almost all of them are complying or have been improved in com- pliance with the international human rights laws • MoDs, NSC, and MoI has policies that integrate human rights Targets: • By 2023, all laws and regulations and policies are reviewed by the AIHRC and the AIHRC recommendations are taken into consideration by the legislative committee and parliament Strategic Interventions:

1. Conduct coordination meetings with legislative bodies

2. Identify and adopt measures to prevent the implementation of laws, policies, and other measures that are not in line with the human rights obligations of the Afghan Government Implementer: Executive Director and Legal Advisor 55 Box 22: Objectives 3.4 and Indicators Objective 3.4: Protection and monitoring programs resulting in the observance of international humanitarian law and human rights law by defense and security forces during armed conflicts; Indicator 3.4.1: Reduced civilian casualties perpetrated by security and defense forces. Baseline: • In 1396, the number of civilian causalities recorded by the AIHRC rose to 9413, of which 9% are perpetrat- ed by the Government forces, Target: • The role of government in perpetrating violence against civilians and causing civilian causalities will reduce below 5% Strategic Interventions:

1. Monitoring the observance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) by armed conflict groups in Afghani- stan

2. Monitoring, collecting information and reporting violations committed by non-state armed groups; hold- ing them accountable, ensuring International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is observed

3. Supporting and advocating for the victims of armed conflict, ensuring their human rights are met

4. Prepare and publish an annual report on violations of humanitarian law within the Afghan context

5. Conducting and coordinating meetings with defense and security institutions, the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross and other civil society organizations

6. Working with victims of war, with a focus on women and children, advocating for their rights

7. Embark on a new phase of Transitional Justice in Afghanistan

8. Registration, documenting and referral of international crime cases (war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide) to justice and judicial institutions Implementer: Commissioners and SIT and Ombudsman Units, Regional and Provincial Managers, Indicator 3.4.2: Reduction in the number of child soldiers being recruited by armed conflict groups. Baseline: • Currently there are only 29 cases of child soldiers reported to the AIHRC Target: • The AIHRC will further monitor the situation and report any increase and decreases to the number of child soldiers verified Strategic Interventions:

1. Supporting and advocating for the victims of armed conflict, ensuring their human rights are met

1. Monitoring ANA and ANP bases for recruiting child soldiers Implementer: Commissioner and Coordinator of Child Rights, Regional and Provincial Managers 56 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Indicator 3.4.3: The number of cases of international crimes addressed by the Afghan judicial authorities. Baseline: • The Judiciary has yet to convene and try any one on the charges of crimes defined under the international criminal court Targets: • The new office of prosecutor general will prosecute all cases of international crimes nature • The AIHRC will run the new phase of transitional justice and documents cases of International crimes for crim- inal investigations Strategic Interventions:

1. Prepare and publish an annual report on violations of humanitarian law within the Afghan context Conducting and coordinating meetings with defense and security institutions, the United Nations, the Inter- national Committee of the Red Cross and other civil society organizations

2. Embark on a new phase of Transitional Justice in Afghanistan

3. Registration, documenting and referral of international crime cases (war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide) to justice and judicial institutions Implementer: Commissioners and Coordinators, Regional and Provincial office managers Indicator 3.4.4: Degree of attention paid to the protection of victims of terrorism, widows, women and girls, victims of sexual violence in conflict. Baselines: • The law on compensation to the victims of terrorism is drafted • A national day for the victims of terrorism is set in the calendar Targets: • The law of compensation to the victims of terrorism is approved • A policy of protecting women in conflict will be drafted and implemented Strategic Interventions:

1. Active participation on the legislative committee

2. Draft a policy on protecting women in conflict and submit it to the government

3. Monitoring and advocating for the law and policy to be implemented Implementer: Commissioners and legal advisor 57 Methodology employed for the AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Planning Process The new five-year Strategic Plan of the AIHRC, based Methodology used for formulation of AIHRC’s strategy on the consultation processes and recommendations for (2019-2023) of the evaluation of the previous Strategic Plan (SP), With the direct supervision of AIHRC Executive aims to enhance the AIHRC’s lead role on human rights Director and the technical assistance of AIHRC Policy monitoring, protection and awareness, and the organi- Advisor, the Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Unit zational and the managerial development of the AIHRC (MERU) of the AIHRC led a consultative and partici- as an effective and influential human rights authority patory approach for the development of a new AIHRC at the regional, national and international levels. Strategic Plan for the 2019-2023 period. Table 2: The following steps and timeframe were considered for 2019-2023 strategic plan No. Description Timeframe Remarks 1 Consultation workshops and Field visits to AIHRC regional offices in six zones for the consultation data collection process as fol- meetings as follows: lows: • Kabul Regional Office Consultation Meeting: the representatives of • One full day workshop with (14) central, eastern and southern provinces were brought together AIHRC staff members at this meeting. • One full day workshop with the • Kunduz Regional Office Consultation Meeting: the representatives AIHRC stakeholders of (4) north-eastern provinces were present at this meeting. August 2018 • Bamyan Regional Office Consultation Meeting: the representatives of (5) central provinces attended this meeting. • Kandahar Regional Office Consultation Meeting: the representa- tives of (3) south-western provinces were present at this meeting. • Mazar-i-Sharif Regional Office Consultation Meeting: the represen- tatives of (5) northern provinces attended this meeting. • Herat Regional Office Consultation Meeting: the representatives of (4) western provinces participated in this meeting. 2 Data compilation and process, (72) group-based SWOT analysis took place during the consultation September information analysis, and desk workshop process throughout the consultation workshops. 2018 review 3 Draft Development (preliminary The drafting process took into account the data collected and ana- October & text, draft, and finalization) lyzed from the consultation workshop processes, and to reflect the November, recommendations and lessons learned from the evaluation of the pre- 2018 vious AIHRC Strategic Plan. 4 Draft consultation and feedback The 2019-2023 AIHRC Strategic Plan draft was shared with the do- 25th Octo- by AIHRC Donors nors and their feedback and suggestions were noted during a project ber, 2018 committee meeting (PCM) and considered in the Strategic Plan. 5 Draft consultation and feed- The Strategic Plan and Action Plan drafts were disseminated to December back by AIHRC staff and relevant AIHRC’s staff (regional and provincial managers) and relevant stake- 2018 stakeholders holders for their feedback and suggestions. 6 Approval of the 2019-2023 Before implementation, the Strategic Plan and Action Plan will require Strategic Plan by the AIHRC’s approval from the Board of commissioners of the AIHRC. Board of Commissioners as well There was a total number of 151 staff member participants (58 Fe- as the approval of the new Stra- December, male & 93 Male) who attended this two-day conference. tegic Plan and Action Plan in the 2018 AIHRC annual conference. This Furthermore, Chairperson Dr. Samar, AIHRC Commissioners, AIHRC Ex- conference was held in Kabul at ecutive Director and all members of the AIHRC top management were the end of December, 2018. present in the process of the Strategic Plan approval. 58 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Image 1 Consultation Meeting in Balkh Province Image 2 Consultation Meeting in Bamyan In order to create a common ground for capturing dations to the team. The discussions were further expressed views of relevant stakeholders, various shaped through plenary and group discussions, as well analytical tools, such as SWOT, STEP, PEST, and PESTLE as individual feedback (in written form). To highlight were implemented within the process. 1 However, the the internal and external factors impacting routine impact of internal and external factors was mainly activities of the AIHRC and identifying new capaci- sourced through a SWOT analysis exercise which shed ties for human rights activities and future delegation light on the AIHRC’s strengths, weaknesses, opportuni- and partnership, the SWOT analytical tool was used. ties, and threats. Between August 2018 and December 2018, a total number of 1050 stakeholders were a part of the consul- The process in collecting the data needed for the tation process. The AIHRC team visited, in addition to 2019-2023 AIHRC Strategic Plan included: Kabul province, five other provinces: Kunduz, Bamyan, Formation of a Strategic Plan Review Team: The AIHRC Kandahar, Mazar-i-Sharif (Balkh) and Herat. 2 formed a core team dedicated to bringing together and leading the 2019-2023 Strategic Plan process. The departments included were: Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Unit (MERU), Program Unit Coordinators and the Database Unit. All worked in facilitating the consul- tative processes and workshops within the provinces, as well as data collection and analysis. Image 3 Consultation Meeting in Herat Desk review: All relevant documents, including the AIHRC thematic and annual reports, final report on the external impact evaluation of the AIHRC, the AIHRC Consultation with relevant stakeholders: The 2014-2018 Strategic and Action Plans’ evaluation stakeholders included university professors, NGO reports and relevant reports on human rights from representatives, women’s activist groups, media the United Nations and international agencies were representatives, members of Ulema council, and thoroughly reviewed and consulted. members of local authorities (governor office, police, and judicial bodies), members of provincial councils, Consultation with AIHRC program and admin staff: A Members of Parliament, community elders and leaders, full-day workshop was convened with the AIHRC provin- members of lawyer’s associations, private sector and cial and regional office staffers (including program and business community. The stakeholders shared their admin staff) to express their thoughts and recommen- views during the SWOT analysis exercise and provided recommendations and viewpoints for the formulation

1. SWOT = Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat; STEP/PEST= Social, Technological, Economic, Political; PESTLE = Political, Economic, Social, Tech- of the Strategic Plan. nological, Legal, Environmental. These tools are frequently used for situational analysis, however, the most common tool is SWOT that is most often used to highlight internal and external factors an organization would encounter with. 2. Please consult annex for full breakdown of SWOT analysis. 59 Exchange of correspondence with the AIHRC region- al and provincial managers: The regional (satellite offices) and provincial managers were asked to provide their views on very specific human rights issues and priorities based on the peculiarities of their working areas, as well as providing feedback and suggestions on the needed changes they deem necessary within the structure and authorities of their offices. Image 5 Consultation Meeting in Kandahar based on a forward-looking vision and credibility at the national and international level. It has carried out human rights monitoring, protection and promotion activities to achieve its goals enshrined in the Constitution and the Law on Structure, Duties and Mandates of the AIHRC and as highlighted in its comprehensive and Image 4 Working Group during Kabul Consultation Meeting responsive Strategic and Action Plan (2018-2023). It’s strategic and action plans are considered key points of its strength. Consultation on the preliminary draft with AIHRC staff, relevant stakeholders, and donors: The Strate- gic Plan draft has been shared with AIHRC regional and provincial staffers, managers, and with donors and relevant stakeholders. Upon completion of this phase of the process the finalized text was submitted to the AIHRC’s board of commissioners for approval. Further- more, a two-day conference was held in Kabul at the end of December 2018 where a total number of 151 region- Image 6 Consultation Meeting in Kabul al and provincial staffers participated (58 Female & 93 Male). The AIHRC’s credibility at the national and interna- The discussions of all meetings were recorded and tional levels and its leadership and efforts in monitoring, publically disseminated and the AIHRC’s gathered protection and promotion of human rights emanates participant feedback from the conference and from its reputation as a reliable advocate of advocacy workshop process to evaluate the findings for creating for upholding and defending human rights, protector for a more effective future program. The entire method- civil society and women’s rights activists, and opponent ology was based on the assessment of the AIHRC’s of taboos and harmful social traditions under a severely working environment (new opportunities, challenges, insecure and volatile situation resulting from continued new capacities) on a Human Rights-Based Approach war and armed conflicts in the country. Its membership (HRBA) through the broad participation and consul- and active participation in international human rights tation with relevant stakeholders (government and assemblies, especially in the Asia Pacific Forum, and its non-government), and identification of a clear means holding of Status “A” from the Committee on accredita- for verification of expected outcomes throughout the tion of ICC are among the AIHRC’s strong points. 2019-2023 Strategic and Action Planning process. The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) is a dynamic and growing institu- tion that enjoys a professional and effective leadership 60 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Strategic Plan SWOT Analysis In bringing together the 2019-2023 strategic plan, the ology commenced with AIHRC presentations, briefings, AIHRC completed a rigorous set of stakeholder consul- and an explanation of the SWOT procedure to ensure tations. These consultations were held throughout six audience comprehension. Then participants were zones: Kabul, Kandahar, Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif, Bamyan randomly divided into working groups whereby they and Kunduz. Within these six zones, all 34 provinces were instructed to complete a SWOT analysis. This was were represented with five to ten representatives then followed by a group representative sharing the from each province. This SWOT Analysis has been results of their discussions. This process was finalized composed of the feedback given by over 1000 consul- with participants providing their individual feedback, tation participants. Consultation groups were made reflections and suggestions on the process. The SWOT up of government officials, Ulema Councils, universi- analysis below is a summarization of the qualitative, ty professors, civil society leaders, local and national primary data collected throughout the consultation media representatives, youth groups, women’s organi- period within the six zones. zations and AIHRC staffers. The consultation method- Box 23: Strengths • Existence of transparency and accountability in the AIHRC. • Success in maintaining the independence and neutrality of the AIHRC. • Being a trusted institution amongst the Afghan people. • Presence of sound leadership and accountable management. • Establishing good relationships with public and private institutions. • Professional and committed staff • Responsible cooperation with stakeholders • Carrying out scientific research and providing primary data on the human rights situation in Afghanistan • Protection of vulnerable people, including women and children • Serious and track able follow-up of cases of human rights violations • The AHIRC’s ability to advice and impact government policy and practice, ensuring human rights are incorpo- rating within the national agenda. • Conducting effective and relevant awareness raising initiatives • Having representation throughout the Afghan provinces, with 14 regional offices • Meticulously creating and proactively implementing a Strategic and Action Plan every five years • Referring complaints to justice judicial organs, ensuring citizens have adequate access to justice • Creating and emphasizing equal access to opportunities for women • Strong government and international support and confidence for the AIHRC • Having built strong relationships with relevant government agencies • Effective and active presence in local, national and international media • Producing an annual AIHRC performance report and presenting it to the relevant stakeholders • The AIHRC continues to have an open door policy for citizens, allowing citizens to observe and exercise their human rights • Working towards the inclusion of human rights topics within the national educational curriculum of Afghani- stan • Incorporation of human rights values ​​into national laws and policies in an effort to institutionalize and system- atize human rights in Afghanistan • Implementation of human rights educational programs in rural areas. • The use of digital and radio media platforms to disseminate human rights educational information and pro- grams • Availability of well-equipped libraries in the regional and provincial offices • Strong partnerships with civil society organizations and local and national media outlets. • Monitoring, reporting and following up on human rights violations in Afghanistan • Adoption of a clear stance through press conferences and publication of press releases 61 • Advocacy to ensure a just peace • Effective monitoring of the practices of justice and judicial organs to hold them accountable to their respon- sibility to the Afghan people • Being the only institution in Afghanistan that has and continues to effectively monitor the condition of prison- ers and detention centers throughout the country • Effective monitoring of the implementation of pardons and the reduction of punishment orders • Continuous monitoring and reporting of civilian casualties within armed conflict Box 24: Weak Points • Not having provincial offices in all thirty-four provinces of Afghanistan • Shortage of AIHRC staffers who can conduct awareness raising initiatives, especially within the regional of- fices • Lack of independently operating human rights media outlet. • Not having access to investigate all prisons throughout all of the country’s provinces • Not having a department for the rights of People(s) with Disabilities office in all of our regional offices • Needing more resources to advocate and promote the rights of children within Afghan families • Not having a more advance means of collecting child labor data • Not having a stronger mechanism to implement the prohibition of child abuse within primary and secondary schools • A continued Afghan culture of impunity, whereby powerful individuals are not prosecuted by the judiciary • Needing to renew the AIHRC’s environmental policy to meet the future environmental challenges of Afghani- stan and globally • Struggle to implement and employ transitional justice within Afghanistan • Not having enough local focal points within the districts to engage with all stakeholders • The disproportionate development of human rights between the urban and rural areas of Afghanistan. • A slow turnover in AIHRC hiring practices • Not enough human rights training programs for the relevant stakeholders. • Difficulty in implementing activities due to a shortage of staffers. • Re-occurring participants at AIHRC programs, which hinders the dissemination of information to broad range of stakeholders. • Concentration of AIHRC conferences within urban areas. • Lack of content diversity within AIHRC monthly magazines, not taking into account those with only primary education. • Shortage in AIHRC logistic and security staffers. • The AIHRC’s inability to activate the National Institute of Human Rights. • Not being able to actively engage on the international level due to foreign travel restrictions • Unstable job security for staffers due to funding and national security uncertainties. • Lack of opportunity for staff capacity building in the areas of attaining higher education due to monetary re- strictions. Box 25: Opportunities • Building upon our legal knowledge to remain in accordance with national and international laws • Continuing to build strong international partnerships • The strong citizen trust and cooperation with the AIHRC • The strong legitimacy and integrity of the AIHRC amongst national and international institutions • A growing understanding of the importance of human rights and increasing outrage towards human rights violations. • The AIHRC’s monitoring and investigation work, especially the work being done in detention centers. • An increase in societal and governmental will in working with the AIHRC towards systematically and institution- ally implementing human rights. • Media cooperation and partnerships in dissemination the work and message of the AIHRC 62 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan • The increasing number of literate Afghans who are able to actively engage with the material produced by the AIHRC and our conferences • The Afghan people’s earnest desire to work towards securing a long-lasting and sustainable peace in Afghan- istan • A continued growing support from the people of Afghanistan for the AIHRC’s mission, vision and mandate. • The support and respect of government officials for the AIHRC • Increasing inter-ethnic and inter-religious cooperation and coexistence • Increasing capacity of the Afghan security forces • Growing AIHRC support from the religious and conservative stakeholders within Afghanistan • Strong CSO cooperation and partnership with the AIHRC • The AIHRC’S budget which remains independent and is not mandated or interfered with by the government • The Provincial Council’s support for the AIHRC • The support of the international community and that of civil society organizations for the AIHRC • Strong national and international support of the AIHRC’s women’s rights monitoring, reporting, advocacy and empowerment initiatives • The increased awareness of human rights which have led to a more self-aware Afghan population • An increase in human rights civil society groups and institutions nationwide • The ability of the AIHRC to refer victims and reported cases to the relevant institutions. Furthermore, the num- ber of cases the AIHRC has resolved, which has garnered the trust of victims and citizens. • A strong support from national and international human rights defenders who look to safeguarding the AIHRC • An increasing interest in the areas of human rights and democracy at the academic level • The amendment of national laws in accordance with human rights standards • Afghanistan’s membership in the International Criminal Court • Afghanistan’s membership in the United Nations Human Rights Council Box 26: Threats • Expansion of the theater of war into new territories which were once controlled by the government. This af- fects AIHRC’s access to such districts and regions as well. • The existence of contentious actors within governmental organizations. • The lack of government accountability to the Afghan people • The weak rule of law in Afghanistan • A continuation in the belief and/or practice of harmful traditions which endangers human rights • The existence of non-state actors which has created a mafia-like state whereby crimes such as human, nar- cotic and weaponry trafficking is occurring. • The continuation and rule of a culture of impunity. • The growing influence and role of non-state, extremist and ultra-conservative actors destabilizing Afghan so- ciety. • The existence and role of armed militias, warlords and non-state actors. • The practice and prevalence of informal justice, which is particularly harmful for Afghan women. • Failure by state institutions to follow up on the reported violations against prisoners, and ensuring their human rights are respected. • The prevalence and destabilizing role of corruption within all levels of Afghan society. • The continuation of poverty. • The increasing number of civilian casualties in combat, suicide bombing attacks and instances of hostage taking. • The continuation of widespread acts of violence against women. • Lack of national security mechanism to ensure infrastructure security along highways. • The recruitment and operation of corrupt justice and judicial officials. • The continuation of proxy warfare in Afghanistan. • The misunderstanding of human rights within Afghan society, especially within the rural and more conservative regions. • Illiteracy and cultural poverty. • The continuation of forced marriage which is a direct threat to the human rights of Afghan women and girls. 63 • The routine occurrences of street harassment, violence and other forms of emotional and physical abuse towards Afghan women and girls. • The increasing number of Afghans seeking refuge abroad or in the neighboring states, and the increasing num- ber of internally displaced peoples due to violence, lack of economic opportunity, environmental degradation, rise of the presence and influence of non-state actors, lack of access to education etc. • The lack of citizen awareness of the national laws and their personal rights and freedoms. • Inability, and therefore state-failure, to support Afghan children with physical and mental disabilities. • The culture bureaucracy within governmental institutions, which has fostered inefficacy. • Systemic and institutionalized gender inequality amongst Afghan men and women which continues to be a problem socially, politically and economically. • The growing number of kidnappings, assassinations and insecurity within Afghanistan. • The prevalence and expansion of religious extremism being carried out through mosques and Madrasas. Often recruiting vulnerable and impoverished Afghan children. 64 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Implementation Mechanism The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan will utilize two the AIHRC to track progress and monitor the levels of parallel but complementary implementation structures. efficacy on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis. This The first is the AIHRC’s internal capacity and resources allows the commission to make the needed changes and the secondly partnering with sustainable and viable when programs and/or activities are not performing to CSOs, human rights defenders, GIRoA and international measure. However, it also allows the AIHRC to track and partners and actors operating within Afghanistan. measure the success levels of programs and activities that are making impactful and beneficial changes. The commission has built and developed national- ly leading program development and implementation The AIHRC will also look into building sustainable mechanisms. In addition to this the AIHRC active- and long-term partnerships with CSOs, the GIRoA and ly monitors and evaluates the implementation of all international partners and actors operating within programs and activities. The AIHRC is also one of Afghanistan. The commission is looking to build partner- Afghanistan’s leading institutions in human resource ships within both rural and urban Afghanistan to ensure retention and capacity building of staffers. optimal human rights awareness raising and open opportunities for joint shadow reports which can be The commission consists of seven program units: submitted to Treaty Bodies and Human Rights Councils,

1. Monitoring investigation and Shuras within 372 districts.

2. Special Investigation Team

3. Women Rights The decision-making process for the implementation

4. Human Rights Education of the 2019-2023 AIHRC Strategic Plan will be done in

5. Child Rights three tiers. The first tier is the AIHRC Commissioner to

6. Ombudsman meet and discuss the Strategic Plan as a whole and

7. Publication and Print Unit and Translation. approving the entirety of its messaging. The second tier is the AIHRC Secretariat and Executive Body, The AIHRC has established 14 regional and provincial which includes head of units and coordinators, making satellite offices that are fully equipped and managed by decisions on their respective and collective projects, highly qualified staffers. The current staff of the AIHRC activities and programming. Finally, the third tier would reaches beyond Four Hundred & Seventy staffers who be decisions that regional and provincial head of offices are trained within their respective specialized units. The and staff will make in the implementation of their commission has made it a priority to employ standard- decentralized actions plans which have been crafted to ized and current management model paradigms. In this meet the localized needs of their office and stakehold- regard, the commission has adapted Result Based ers. Management (RBM) whilst conducting interventions for measuring the impact of the implementation of the strategic plan. The AIHRC will implement the 2019-2023 strategic plan by developing a specialized and targeted annual action plan for each program unit and each of the regional and provincial office. This will also be accompa- nied by an annual national action plan, all of which will be completed under the guidance of and in compliance with the RBM model. The development of an action plan to achieve the Strategic Plan’s objectives allows Table 3: 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Risk Assessment Impact As- Possible Proba- Risk Assessment of No Areas Impacts Assessment of Impacts Strategic interventions sess- risks bility Factor Probability ment Periods 1 Politics The change High External Since 2014 and af- Undermining Articles Yearly or amend- ter the signing of the 58, 7 and Chapter 2 of ment of Unity Government po- the Constitution and The changes or amendments to Advocacy with and edu- the Afghan litical agreement, dis- other chapters the constitution does not allow cation for the members Constitu- cussions over change changes and amendments to of district and provincial the most part of Chapter Two, councils, women’s activist tion and amendment of groups, civil society, the the constitution have however the changes in other media and the internation- entered to a new and chapters including Article Sev- al community. serious state. Further, en and Article Fifty-Eight of the attempt towards initi- constitution will have implica- ating a peace process .tions on human rights to end long-term con- flict in Afghanistan has added to this con- versation immensely. The with- Medium External After 2014, the inter- The Afghan govern- The Afghan government, Coordination and advoca- Yearly AIHRC Potential Risk Assessment drawal of national community ment, national and non-governmental organiza- cy for the continued sup- the interna- dramatically reduced state-building process tions and major national projects port of the international tional com- their aid contribution including building a vi- need continued assistance and for Afghanistan munity from and physical presence brant civil society, licit effective participation by the in- Afghani- in Afghanistan. With economy and national ternational community. The de- stan or the this trend continuing, projects that lead to crease in support and withdraw- reduction the decrease in in- stability and progress, al of international actors would of their sup- ternational and donor rely to a degree on in- lead to an onset of weakened port to the assistance to Afghan- ternational support. political stability, democratic Afghan gov- istan can pose serious Any changes to that values, and a collapse of public ernment threats to sustainable support, destabilizes services which will exacerbate development initia- the country and the the situation of human rights in tives. status quo thus neg- Afghanistan. atively affecting the progress on human rights, women rights, child rights and the work of the AIHRC. Reduced Medium External Peace is a pre-requisite to the Yearly govern- protection and promotion of ment com- The Afghan govern- Undermining the Con- human rights however, respect, Advocacy to protect hu- mitment ment’s peace process stitution, the rule of promotion and protection of hu- man rights values and to the pro- negotiation with the law, undermining wom- man rights make peace possible monitoring the perfor- tection and Taliban remains a en’s rights and ignoring and sustainable. Any attempt to mance of the government promotion very opaque process, the rights of victims undermine or to understate the to enforce laws by relying of human whereby human rights of war and limiting the importance of human rights and on national laws and inter- rights. standards have not work of the AIHRC. democratic norms would make national mechanisms. been incorporated. peace fragile and only a tempo- rary political achievement. 65 66 Impact As- Possible Proba- Risk Assessment of No Areas Impacts Assessment of Impacts Strategic interventions sess- risks bility Factor Probability ment Periods 2 Security Insecurity High External After the collapse of Limitation of AIHRC’s The AIHRC’s access to areas Advocacy and pressure on spreads Kunduz, the theater access and reach into under its program coverage the security and defense across the of war has been shift- some regions and dis- has decreased from 70 per- organs to ensure citizen country and ing from rural to urban tricts, increased civilian cent to 56% percent whilst security. Advocacy at the work- areas and cutting off casualties, violations civilian casualties have steadily the global level to attract ing space AIHRC access to ar- of humanitarian and increased. For example, in the international support and shrinks for eas that were once human rights law in the first six months of 2018, civilian attention to Afghanistan. the AIHRC secure and workable. country, violations of causalities increased by 30% Continuous monitoring of to imple- This inevitably causes the right to liberty and compared to the same period compliance with human- ment its displacement, civilian human security. Fur- last year. Citizen’s access to the itarian law during armed The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan programs casualties, affects thermore, human rights right to freedom and security conflict, and advocacy in and proj- women and children, violation cases could has become more limited com- order to make parties in ects. and also restricts not be verified, inves- pared with previous years. conflict comply with IHL. the operations of the tigated and followed Action through human AIHRC. up on. rights defenders, civil so- ciety organizations, media outlets and through local human rights councils cre- ated by the AIHRC. I n c re a s e d Medium Internal AIHRC staffers per- Reduced level of activ- In previous years, the AIHRC Implementing the action Yearly security form high-risk activi- ities, losing qualified monitoring teams had physical plan for protecting hu- threats ties in the domain of and competent employ- access into over 80% of the man rights defenders, for AIHRC human rights moni- ees. This also leads to country, and now they only have strengthening support staff. toring, protection and higher implementation access to 48% of the once cov- guidelines, and coordina- promotion. They live costs for activities in ered areas. This can reduce the tion with partner institu- and work within the unsafe conditions and/ level of access, activity, and tions to support AIHRC very areas that are or environments. effectiveness of the AIHRC’s staff. insecure. Over the work. Replacement and staff past years, in partic- leaves with pay require higher ular in October 2015, costs. two employees of the AIHRC were martyred in Jalalabad, Afghan- istan and six others were wounded. These threats are posed on daily basis by individ- uals, anti-government forces, the Taliban and rogue elements within the government. 3 T h e Reduction Medium External Donor funding level to Reduction of budgets Despite the progress made in Encouraging the interna- AIHRC’s of donor’s the AIHRC has been will curtail monitoring, obtaining funding from the na- tional community to con- budget fi n a n c i a l declining over years. educational, promo- tional budget of Afghanistan, tinue funding the AIHRC, support to Although the com- tional and protective and inclusion of the AIHRC as a diversifying our donors the AIHRC, mission’s donors have activities. It also caus- budgetary unit, the AIHRC will and sources of funding which af- firmly continued their es reduction in the or- require continued donor funding. and raising the Afghan fects the financial and political ganizational structure Any budget cuts will lead to the government’s share into commis- support to the AIHRC, of the AIHRC, reduction reduction of AIHRC‘s program the AIHRC’s annual budget sion’s work it is likely that some of capacity building activities including monitoring, to more than 30% and effi- donors decrease or programs, losing staff commission presence in the c i e n c y. pullout financial sup- due to low pay and clo- provinces, closure of offices and port to the AIHRC. sure of offices. the loss of professional human resources. 5 The weak- The possi- High External The continuation of Violations of human Increased human rights viola- Serious monitoring and ness of ble increase war, attacks on civil- rights, violations of tions require more costs and follow up on the violations the rule in cases ians, continuation of women’s rights, vio- resources and more monitoring of human rights in the ju- of law and of human the culture of impu- lations of children’s programs and education and ca- dicial and defense organs. the pro- rights and nity, weak rule of law, rights, increasing civil- pacity building programs. Advocacy to approve the motion of humanitari- expansion of influence ian casualties, target- compensation law. Capac- informal an law viola- and control of the Tal- ing religious and minori- ity building for the staff of justice tions. iban, and irresponsible ty communities. justice and judicial organs militias threats to the and security and defense human rights and free- institutions in the area of doms of Afghans. human rights and humani- tarian law. Informal High External With the increasing The increasing pres- Increased informal justice has Strengthening and pro- Yearly Justice. presence of the Tali- ence and use of infor- caused the violation of human tecting the justice and ban, the government mal justice has resulted rights, especially women’s judiciary institutions under continues to lose con- in a weakened formal rights, and it has created chal- the current MoU signed trol over big swaths of justice and in the effi- lenges to the promotion, moni- with the judiciary. Contin- the territory. Judiciary ciency of the judiciary toring and protection of human uous monitoring of the and law enforcement organs. This will cause rights. performance of justice services decline. This women’s and children’s and judicial institutions will cause the spread rights violations, re- and encouraging citizens of informal justice, strictions of freedom to turn to formal judicial extra judicial killings of of expression, freedom authorities. Launch an women, and Taliban is- of opinion and fair trials. awareness-raising cam- sued forms of justice. paign on human rights and the rule of law in all parts of the country – rural and urban areas. 6 Lack of Losing qual- High Internal Insecurity, reduced The loss of skilled and Reduced working motivation Adoption of security qualified ified staff financial support and qualified personnel, decreases the effectiveness of measures to protect em- staff and expert funding to the AIHRC, and the decline in the the AIHRC’s activities in the area ployees. Investing in the employees. available job oppor- quality of human rights of protection, monitoring and upgrading of staff capaci- tunities in other gov- .services promotion of human rights. ty, renewal and implemen- ernment and non-gov- tation of rules and regula- ernmental sectors, tions of the AIHRC. and threats will likely result to lose staff. 67 68 Impact As- Possible Proba- Risk Assessment of No Areas Impacts Assessment of Impacts Strategic interventions sess- risks bility Factor Probability ment Periods 7 Corrup- Corrup- High External With the continuation The AIHRC’s recom- Corruption has delayed the per- Implementation of aware- Yearly tion tion will of war and insecurity mendations and the formance of the judiciary and ness-raising programs on negatively and the weakness of cases referred to the other government agencies, has the harmful consequenc- affect the the rule of law, there relevant institutions increased human rights viola- es of corruption and its perfor- is a possibility that are not being followed tion, reduced citizen’s access to negative impact on the mance of justice system cannot up on and the grounds justice and, ultimately, has led to human rights situation, judiciary overcome the plague for the violations of the weakness of the rule of law monitoring the perfor- and other of corruption affect- human rights are pro- and unfair distribution of public mance of the judiciary and justice sys- ing the justice mech- vided. services. other government bodies tems. anisms. in relation to human rights. The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Registration, investigation and the referral of cases of human rights violations caused by corruption to the relevant justice and judicial organs and its fol- low-up. Corruption Low Internal Government interven- Reduction of the quali- The AIHRC will lose credibility Effective and continuous impacts on tion in the appoint- ty of performance, loss and lose the trust of stake- monitoring, evaluation and the credibil- ment of commis- of credibility and waste holders. The commission’s in- auditing, recruiting com- ity, perfor- sioners, the change of resources. dependence is thus affected petent and committed mance and of Commission’s and could lead to a weakened staff, strengthening inter- integrity of systems, weakened institution. nal rules and procedures, the AIHRC. internal monitoring and ensuring transparency and audit, change in in financial and administra- leadership and man- tive implementation. agement, is likely to expose the AIHRC to corruption. 7 Extrem- Medium External Afghanistan contin- Increased violent be- Extremism has been a primary Increased training pro- ism ues to witness a grow- havior, violation of the exacerbating force in human grams, public awareness Negative ing number and influ- right to freedom of rights violations. This inevitably sessions, and ongoing propaganda ence of Takfiri groups, expression, freedom limits the AIHRC activities. monitoring. against hu- the Taliban, ISIS and of opinion, freedom of man rights other extremist, non- the individual and oth- values, state actors. They are er fundamental human promoting actively engaging in rights. the culture violence and trans- of Takfir mitting propaganda (declaring against human rights someone values. This promotes an infidel), a culture of extrem- hatred and ism and hatred, which intolerance. propagates war and promotes violence using social networks, and the media. 69 Monitoring and Evaluation of the Strategic plan For an effective and result based implementation sion’s financial policies (zero tolerance on financial of the AIHRC’s five-year strategic plan, the commis- irregularities) and organizational rules and regulations. sion benefits from a well-established Monitoring, This evaluation and audit will help plan and calculate Evaluation and Reporting Unit (MERU). The AIHRC’S the exact and necessary financial resources for MERU currently consist of one coordinator, and three AIHRC programming and for regional and provincial members. The commission continuously seeks to offices based on their specified needs. This process train staff on the most current methodologies for data is an additional procedure put in place of regulating collection, analysis and dissemination, and to apply budget expenditures and maximizing the commis- these techniques within our monitoring, evaluation sion’s finances whilst the AIHRC’s National Finance and reporting mechanisms. MERU regularly monitors Unit manages financial vouches on a month-to-month and evaluates the progress of the AIHRC’s strategic basis. and action plan implementation on a monthly, quarter- ly and annually basis utilizing the AIHRC’s unique online The AIHRC’s MERU will monitor the progress of the Program Management System (APMS). annual action plan and the strategic plan on a monthly, quarterly and yearly measuring scheme. The unit has In mitigating risks the AIHRC has committed to devised a specific set of checklists that measure the information sharing and undergoing independent progress of activities at the national and provincial eternal evaluations to ensure transparency and levels to mitigate risks, ensure peak efficacy and allow accountability. There are two rounds of independent for program and activity adjustments where needed. external evaluations which are scheduled as follows: In addition to this the commission will conduct an internal assessment report every six months assess-

1. Mid-term evaluation by third quarter of 2022; ing all AIHRC regional and provincial offices.

2. Impact evaluation when the strategic plan comes to its end towards the end of 2023. The external evaluation is always conducted by international experts, with prior donor consulta- tion, and the findings are shared amongst relevant stakeholders. In addition to this the AIHRC will hire, in consultation with project committee members, an audit firm to review AIHRC accounts for the 2019-2023 Strategic Plan to ensure international standards and best practices are upheld, and financial commitments are upheld and honored. Furthermore, the commission ensures that our Internal Evaluation of Program(s) Unit and Auditing of Financial Documents are made available to donors to facilitate transparent information sharing. The Internal Evaluation of Program(s) Unit will also audit the AIHRC’s expenditures and account records of each regional and provincial office. They will review the related documents in accordance to the commis- 70 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan

Annex 1: AIHRC 2014-2018 Strategic Plan External Evaluation by Mr. Richard Bennet and Ms. Marianne Olesen & Suggestions for the 2019- 2023 Strategic Plan A Mid-Term Evaluation Report was conducted in July the commission. 2018 by Mr. Richard Bennet, human rights, peace and security consultant and newly appointed Chief The external evaluation highlighted key observa- of UNAMA’s Human Rights Unit, and Ms. Marianne tions such as the AIHRC’s Special Investigation Team Olesen consultant with a focus on gender equality and being under resourced during a time when the country women’s rights. Their report was mandated to “provide is experiencing high levels of International Humani- an independent assessment of the AIHRC’s Strate- tarian Law violations. In addition to this, the report gic Plan and Action Plan and is timed so that evalua- suggested that the AIHRC’s financial stability could tion findings, lessons learned, and recommendations “benefit from strategic discussions and agreement inform the forthcoming process to plan and formulate on contributions by the Afghan Government and the the next Strategic Plan 2019 – 2023.” 1 The report was International donors to cover the entire 2019-2023 commissioned to fulfill three specific objectives: (1) Strategic Plan period.” 5 One of the key statements assessing the effectiveness, relevance and sustain- made in the evaluation was that the JPA “should ability of results to date (2) assessing the effica- explicitly acknowledge the independent status of the cy of multi-donor support and providing findings, AIHRC and the functions of a national human rights conclusions (3) recommendations as well as lessons institution.” 6 learned to inform on-going implementation and the 2019-2023 Strategic Plan. 2 In looking to the 2019-2023 Strategic Plan, the evaluation has put forth some key recommendations In reviewing the previous strategic plan of such as: 2014-2018 the evaluation offered key findings • The AIHRC should continue to use its leader- for each proposed strategic objective: leadership, ship to mainstream human rights and empower promotion of human rights and empowerment. The others; evaluation highlighted that the AIHRC is “seen as a trustworthy institution, free from corruption and with • Continuing efforts with all three branches of a committed staff (and) in this regard, it is a model the government to ensure respect for human for other Afghan institutions.” 3 In addition to this the rights and compliance with the Commission’s evaluation highlighted that the AIHRC is a “leading recommendations; advocate for women’s rights and (…) AIHRC’s Gender Policy is an important step towards strengthening • The Commission should continue to vanguard (the commission) as a role model among Afghan the transitional justice agenda workplaces.” 4 Furthermore, the AIHRC’s participation in the Asia Pacific Forum and other notable regional • AIHRC should continue its strong leadership on and institutional human rights networks has created protection of and advocacy for women’s rights a protection against domestic pressure by means of the international support and esteem and garnered by • The AIHRC should hold discussions with interna- 1. AIHRC Mid-Term Evaluation Report by Mr. Richard Bennet and Ms. Marianne tional donors and the Government regarding Olesen, July 2018. the AIHRC’s long term financing with a view to 2. Ibid. , July 2018. ensuring the sustainability and independence 3. Ibid. , July 2018. 5. 2019-2023 Strategic Plan period 4. Ibid. , July 2018. 6. Ibid. , July 2018. 71 of the institution, while delivering its mandate. Donors should continue to provide substantial funding to the AIHRC through its next Strate- gic Plan. The Evaluation Team recommends a modest increase in the AIHRC’s budget. 7 The report reflected that the commission should continue its current trajectory of programming and activities with no indication of stopping any current practices indefinitely. This being said, the report put an emphasis on the commission to increase efforts on thematic areas pertaining to justice, decentral- ization of administrative work and decision planning, diversification of partnerships for joint campaign and activities in support of women’s empowerment and gender equality. It was echoed throughout the report that the AIHRC operates at a high level of competence and is committed to be a catalyst for change within Afghan society, understanding that human rights are a “generational project.” 7. a modest increase in the AIHRC’s budget 72 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan

Annex 2: List of Participants of the consultation process 73

Annex 3: AIHRC Comperative Analysis Graphs The above graph shows an increase of (21%) of participa- During the consultation process of the 2019-2023 AIHRC tion during the consultation process of new Strategic Plan Strategic Plan (SP), the total number of 184 high and midlev- (SP) (2019-2023) compared to that of participants in the el authorities were participated; sharing their ideas and previous AIHRC SP (2014-2018) recommendations regarding the AIHRC SP. The figures from this year show an increase of (20%) participation of govern- ment officials compared to previous AIHRC SP. A total number of 338 (88 female and 250 male) representa- Representatives of media were another part of the consul- tives from CSOs participated in the consultation process of tation process of the AIHRC new Strategic Plan. The above the 2019-2023 AIHRC SP. This figure shows an increase of graph shows the participation of 64 person (14 female & 50 (29.50%) participation levels, in comparison to the previous male) which has no difference to the consultation process AIHRC SP. of previous Strategic Plan. during the process in comparison to that of the last SP cycle. It also indicates an increase of (74%) female staff participa- tion in comparison to that of the last SP process. The increase in female staff participation can be explained due to the AIHRC increase of female staff hires throughout our regional and provincial offices. The commis- sion has particularly focused on the hiring of more females within upper management positions to ensure a gender balance within decision making processes. Furthermore, During the consultation process of the 2019-2023 Strategic higher levels of female participation is reflective of the Plan, almost every staff member of the AIHRC regional and higher numbers of women entering the workforce and formal provincial offices were involved. The findings above highlights sectors of the economy. that 464 staff members (181 female & 283 male) partici- pated in the consultation meetings and AIHRC staff consul- tations. The graph shows an increase of (19%) participation 74 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan

Annex 4: Women’s participation in the AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Consultations The above graphs above highlight female participation in the consultation process of the 2019-2023 AIHRC Strategic Planning process within six consultation zones. Representatives from government organizations, civil society organizations, women’s groups, Ulema councils, university professors, community leaders and media from throughout the country were brought together within this process. The findings indicate 32% female participation throughout the seven stakeholder consultations, which is a 9% increase from the 2014-2018 Strategic Plan consultation process. This is an positive indicator of the AIHRC’s efforts in including women within the consultation and decision making processes.

Annex 5: The AIHRC Organizational Chart 75 76 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan

Annex 6: The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Consultation Process Pictures Strategic Plan Consultation Meeting-Kabul. 1-4 Strategic Plan Consultation Meeting– Kandahar . 5-8 1 5 2 6 3 7 4 8 77 Strategic Plan Consultation Meeting-Herat. 9-12 Strategic Plan Consultation Meeting-Mazar. 13-16 9 13 10 14 11 15 12 16 78 The AIHRC 2019-2023 Strategic Plan Strategic Plan Consultation Meeting-Bamyan.17-20 Strategic Plan Consultation Meeting-Kundoz. 21-24 17 21 18 22 19 23 20 24 79