Afghanistan and International Relations: Shaped by a New Generation of Scholars

The international workshop on “Afghanistan and International Relations” was a pivotal event held on 6-7 June 2024 at the Coral Bell School of the Australian National University.

The workshop celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Department of International Relations, bringing together a diverse group of esteemed academics, diplomats, practitioners, and students. The workshop was convened and mentored by Emiratus Professor William Maley, AM, FASSIA, FAIIA of the Australian National University and expert of Afghanistan studies. 

Over two days, the event featured comprehensive sessions on critical topics, including Afghanistan’s legitimacy in the global order, the impact of colonialism and empire, diplomacy, international law, and the transformation of war and terrorism in Afghanistan. The discussions were also around thought-provoking issues such as protecting vulnerable populations, the role of refugees/diaspora communities and forced migration, and the lessons of history for Afghanistan’s future.

Prominent contributors such as Paul Lushenko, Adam Findley, Farkhunde Akbar, Nematullah Bizha, Niamatullah Ibrahimi, Parwiz Kawa, Srinjoy Bose, Ahmad Shuja Jamal, Kobra Moradi, Abbas Farasoo, Aref Saba, Ali Adeli, Timor Sharan, Wali Yawari, Homa Frotan, and Aryana Mahmood shared their insights, providing a deep dive into the multifaceted challenges and dynamics of Afghanistan by preseting their research on topics ranging from global gender politics to state-building and democratization. These scholars’ stories of perseverance and resilience underscored the critical role of education and scholarly exchange in fostering a more peaceful and stable Afghanistan.

The workshop concluded by HE Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi reflecting on the new generation of scholars contributing for a just, pluralistic and peaceful post-Taliban future.