AREU has a history of seeing challenges as opportunities and generating ideas to tackle them by conducting evidence-based research. Its long-standing commitment to the betterment of Afghanistan is served by its scholarly publications, active engagement with stakeholders, and practical recommendations that take into account the contextual realities of working in Afghanistan. AREU’s focus on research despite the challenging security environment is both a reflection of its institutional character and that of all those who work in the organisation.
This is a notable year for Afghanistan as it navigates political, security, and strategic challenges. The uncertainty of these changes makes it all the more pressing for AREU to continue its research activities to provide clarity to some of the most vexing policy problems affecting the country. AREU’s all-Afghan research team is well equipped and committed to finding solutions to some of these problems and to working with policymakers to test and advance its ideas. AREU’s inclusivity and notable equality between women and men make it far more likely that it can uncover inspiring ideas that are more representative and capable of creating positive influence through research for Afghanistan.
I am confident that AREU will continue to produce compelling research. This will create a demand for the exchange of ideas that will make a positive impact on Afghanistan’s policies and practices.
The Board of Directors at AREU comprise of heads of European missions, senior UN diplomats, leaders of civil society organisations, and highly experienced public policy experts and practitioners with a longstanding history of working in Afghanistan. The Board convenes quarterly and is chaired by H.E. Sayed Jawad Jawed, Director of HAFOcc.
The Board reviews AREU’s research outputs and communications activities against its three-year strategic plan, provides guidance and shares ideas for strategic development, and plays a valuable role in decision making, approving or changing policy.
Independent Expert
AREU values its partnerships with educational institutions and international consortiums and research organizations. These collaborations allow us to tap into the breadth of expertise that our partners bring to the table. Together, we are able to conduct research on a diverse range of subjects and share invaluable resources. Our partners often bring a global perspective to the research, whereas AREU provides on the ground expertise and contextual knowledge from nearly two decades of conducting research in Afghanistan.