Event Date: April 22, 2026 - 9:00am to 5:00pm
Location: FSS 4007, 120 University Private, University of Ottawa

Registration: Google Forms

Presented by the Ottawa Consultative Process and CIPS

Background:

More than four years after the Taliban’s unconstitutional takeover, the people of Afghanistan continue to face a multifaceted crisis with far-reaching implications for regional and global security. Amid this profound tragedy and uncertainty, Afghans in the diaspora, together with international partners and friends of Afghanistan, remain committed to preserving the gains achieved over two decades of partnership. These gains were grounded in shared aspirations for human rights, democratic governance, gender equality, education, and cultural pluralism. This shared legacy continues to inspire collective action among Afghans and the international community who stand in solidarity with Afghanistan.

As the situation in Afghanistan continues to worsen across all fronts, there is a growing need for meaningful dialogue, greater collaboration, and coordinated advocacy among international partners, Afghan diaspora communities and friends of Afghanistan across the globe. They collectively hold unique potential to serve as bridges between the people of Afghanistan and the international community, offering not only a voice for those inside the country but also a platform for generating innovative and forward-looking solutions.

Conference Overview:

The conference will be organized by the Ottawa Consultative Process in collaboration with the Center for International Policy Studies (CIPS) of the University of Ottawa. The conference aims to bring together experts, diaspora leaders, civil society actors, women leaders, youth representatives, cultural figures, and friends of Afghanistan to reflect on the current situation in Afghanistan, explore the collective responsibility, and foster collaboration around a shared vision for the future of Afghanistan.

By creating space for dialogue, networking, and knowledge exchange, the conference will support a new integrated international approach to Afghanistan as well as a more coherent and coordinated response by the Afghan diaspora community and friends of Afghanistan while promoting civic engagement, community participation, and partnership. Special attention will be given to the role of Afghan newcomers particularly youth and women in shaping the future of the diaspora as well as their contribution to the Canadian society and to the global advocacy for Afghanistan.

Program

Panel I: The Current Situation: Challenges and Lessons Learned

Panelists will discuss the current multifaceted crisis in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime, examining the complex and interrelated challenges facing the country. The discussion will address the severe humanitarian situation, the ongoing human rights catastrophe particularly affecting women and girls, the persistent political deadlock, and the growing security threats within and beyond Afghanistan. In doing so, the panel will consider the broader implications of these developments for regional stability and global security.

Building on these reflections, panelists will assess the current international approach toward Afghanistan and explore how it may need to be recalibrated in light of the deepening crisis. 

Panel II: Collective Responsibility and a Common Narrative 

This panel will build on the discussions from the first panel by examining the most pressing priority areas affecting Afghanistan today. In particular, it will focus on key humanitarian needs, ongoing human rights concerns, developments in the political process, and the evolving security environment. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the discussion aims to provide a deeper understanding of the urgent actions required from the international community and Afghan stakeholders.

The panel will also explore practical ways to strengthen collaboration and partnership among members of the Afghan diaspora and friends of Afghanistan in Canada and around the world. Emphasis will be placed on identifying opportunities to work together around a shared narrative a common vision for Afghanistan’s future.

Panel III: Youth Engagement in Shaping a Shared Future

This panel will explore the evolving role of young members of the Afghan diaspora, particularly women and newcomers, in leadership, innovation, and community engagement. It will highlight how these individuals are shaping conversations, initiating new ideas, and building networks that strengthen both their communities and the broader social fabric. Special attention will be given to the unique perspectives and experiences that young diaspora leaders bring.

The discussion will also reflect on the many ways in which young Afghan diaspora members are contributing to Canadian society, including through professional achievement, social initiatives, and community service. At the same time, the panel will explore their aspirations for Afghanistan’s future and the meaningful role they can play in supporting it, from raising awareness and advocating for human rights to building global connections and amplifying the voices of those within Afghanistan. By sharing experiences and ideas, the session aims to inspire greater engagement and collaboration among the next generation of leaders.