Supporting Afghan Researchers At Risk: Critical Analysis of Key Lessons

Following the fall of Kabul to the Taliban in August 2021, a wave of devastating changes swept across Afghanistan. The return of the group has ushered in a dark era, characterized by blatant disregard for essential human rights and deliberate dismantling of democratic values. Among the most vulnerable are women and girls, religious and ethnic minorities, as well as marginalized groups at the intersections of multiple identities. Thousands have fled Afghanistan or remain in hiding. The UK and the international community have been confronted with the urgent task of evacuating at-risk researchers from The consequences of such power transitions extend far beyond immediate political implications. To shed light on their experiences, we spoke to several at-risk researchers who made the difficult decision to leave their homeland. The stories in this report highlight the immense challenges faced by at-risk scholars and their families as they navigate a hostile immigration system, process their traumatic experiences, and make difficult decisions to secure a better future. It underscores the need for continued support and resources for these individuals as they rebuild their lives. While these are the stories of those who managed to escape many others do not meet the eligibility criteria or have the means to leave the country. These stories are not unique, nor the most extreme, but rather a reflection of the experiences of countless Afghan academics. These accounts emphasize the need for enhanced planning and support mechanisms tailored to safeguard at-risk researchers operating within conflict contexts. Additionally, they underscore the obligations borne by external stakeholders who have invested in and contributed to the academic endeavors of these individuals. By drawing insights from the evacuation initiatives and aid extended to these individuals, this paper aims to contribute to this critical discussion and inform future strategies aimed at protecting and enabling at-risk researchers to sustain their invaluable contributions. It identifies five lessons and provides a set of recommendations for consideration when designing a wider programme of support that can better prepare and respond to future crises. These include lessons around (1) planning, (2) criteria for prioritization, (3) visas and logistics, (iv) fellowship criteria and program support, and (v) coordination.
Halaimzai, Theros and Kapadia (2023) Supporting Afghan Researchers At Risk: Critical Analysis of Key Lessons, PeaceRep.