Feminist Peace Initiative: Empowering Afghan women to play an active role in peacebuilding

Twenty grassroots women activists and experienced women peace activists participated in seven online training sessions aimed at strengthening peacebuilding knowledge and skills and fostering an inclusive and supportive network of Afghan women peacebuilders. Women from different provinces across Afghanistan participated in the sessions, organised by Femina Afghanistan. We supported these sessions through our Feminist Peace Initiatives.

Connecting with other Afghan women reminded us that we are not alone in this fight. Together, our voices are stronger.

The training focused on empowering grassroots women activists with foundational knowledge and skills in peacebuilding and advocacy and equipping activists with experience in peace work with advanced tools in negotiation, mediation and facilitation. The sessions were conducted over Zoom and WhatsApp and covered key peacebuilding concepts. A particular emphasis was placed on women’s participation in peace processes, which included case studies of successful women-led peacebuilding efforts.

Strengthening women’s leadership

The sessions were organised by Femina Afghanistan, an organisation founded by experienced human rights defenders and peacebuilding experts from Afghanistan. The organisation seeks to strengthen women's leadership, particularly in influencing peace processes, and to build a culture of peace.

Sixty women responded to the call for applications. Two groups of 10 grassroots women activists and experienced women peacebuilders each were selected, prioritising regional, ethnic and linguistic diversity. Despite the challenges posed by location and connectivity, the online format enabled the participation of women across diverse communities in Afghanistan.

The six-week training culminated in a joint reflection session and included a special collaborative event with Afghan students at Oxford University focusing on UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on “Women, Peace and Security”.

Creating a safe and trusting environment

During the preparation and implementation of the trainings, Femina Afghanistan managed risks and found solutions for various challenges, including internet- and electricity issues, safety concerns and the lack of available peacebuilding resources in Pashto and Dari. They also factored in the emotional weight of the sessions, particularly when women shared personal stories.

Despite these challenges, the Feminist Peace Initiative created a safe and trusting environment. Participants reported feeling mentally and emotionally supported, with some noting that the sessions helped improve their well-being. Relationships formed during the project continued after its conclusion, with in-person visits and collaborative initiatives taking place across provinces.

A women peacebuilders network across Afghanistan

In the training sessions the grassroots activists gained vital skills in peace education and advocacy, enabling them to take the initiative in their communities. Experienced peacebuilders enhanced their confidence and expanded their knowledge of using facilitation, mediation and negotiation tools effectively.

More importantly, the Feminist Peace Initiative fostered a strong. Participants reported feelings of solidarity and mutual support. Several organised their own local learning sessions, sharing insights from the training with other women in their communities. As a result of this Feminist Peace Initiative, a women’s peacebuilding network has been established in Afghanistan.

This training was a turning point for us. I understand that peace is not only political – it begins in our homes and communities.