Kabul, Afghanistan – In an effort to strengthen coordination between the Afghan government, civil society, and media, the USAID-funded Afghanistan Civic Engagement Program (ACEP) organized a two-day “Framework for Cooperation Conference” in Kabul on May 7-8, 2018. More than 230 representatives from Afghan civil society organizations (CSOs), media agencies, and representatives from the Afghan government attended. The conference focused on CSO and media financial sustainability, access to information, CSOs’ safety, and media impartiality. The conference was held in response to sector challenges highlighted by H.E. President Ashraf Ghani during the National Conference on NGOs on March 11, 2018.

Conference participants agreed to develop the foundation for a Framework for Cooperation document, under the guidance of the Civil Society Joint Working Group. Abdullah Ahmadi, a member of the Civil Society Joint Working Group noted that the absence of a national civil society strategy that includes an agreed upon definition of “civil society” continues to hinder cooperation.

USAID Mission Director Herbie Smith acknowledged the crucial role of civil society in national development. “They set the agenda for change, support reform, and hold the government accountable.”

Afghanistan’s Minister of Economy, H.E Mustafa Mastoor, stated that the event was an important platform to discuss ideas, exchange experiences, and explore opportunities to further coordinate a shared vision and improve civil society engagement with the government.

Since 2013, ACEP has been promoting civil society and media engagement that enables Afghan citizens to influence policy, monitor the government’s commitment to the people, and serve as an advocate for political reform.

With almost $17 billion spent on development programs in Afghanistan since 2002, USAID provides the largest bilateral civilian assistance program to Afghanistan. USAID partners with the government and people of Afghanistan to ensure economic growth led by the country’s private sector, to establish a democratic and capable state governed by the rule of law, and to provide basic health and education services for all Afghans.

• Press Release - Afghan Government, Civil Society, and Media to Strengthen Bonds at Framework for Cooperation Conference (Dari)