Latest Issue
This issue of Peace Policy grows out of the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies’ Afghanistan Program on Peace and Development (AfPAD). With attention to the short-term need for negotiations to address the humanitarian crisis, the medium-term need for inclusive negotiations for a new Afghan constitution, and the longer-term need for a sustainable regional peace process, this issue of Peace Policy seeks to answer pressing questions.
What are the prospects for peace and democracy in Afghanistan and the region? Why have past peace processes failed? What types of local peacebuilding are possible in Afghanistan? How are human rights abuses toward minority groups and women in Afghanistan impacting their efforts to support a multiethnic democracy?
Four leading Afghan experts with significant experience working to support inclusive political processes, democratic spaces, human rights, and peace processes author each of the articles in this edition of Peace Policy. We chose not to include the names of two of the authors at their request because of concern for their safety.
Guest Editor for this issue: Lisa Schirch, Richard G. Starmann, Sr. Professor of the Practice of Peace Studies
Human Rights Defenders and the Future of Multi-ethnic Democracy in Afghanistan
Minority ethnic and religious groups and women in Afghanistan have led the movement for democracy and human rights. Discrimination and violence against these groups in Afghanistan are not new. But under the new Taliban regime, they suffer the most. The human rights...
Afghanistan Requires a National and Regional Dialogue Based on the Principle of Inclusivity
The withdrawal of US troops and immediate takeover by the Taliban in August 2021 marked a radical transition from Afghanistan’s status as a republic to an Islamic Emirate system. With this transition, the Taliban maintains the perception that peace has replaced their...
Afghanistan needs a new political process to prevent a renewed phase of armed conflict
Several armed opposition groups launched attacks against the Taliban in multiple provinces over the last year. While these groups may be in their initial stages of formation, the number of casualties they have inflicted on the Taliban is enough to meet the definition...
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Research-based insights, commentary, and solutions to the global challenge of conflict and systemic violence

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Searching for Policy Solutions to Pressing Global Issues
Each issue features the writing of scholars and practitioners who work to understand the causes of violent conflict and systemic violence and who seek to contribute solutions in service of building more just and peaceful societies.
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