Keeping Hope Alive

H.E. Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi's National Press Club Address, Canberra, 18 August 2023

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed members of the Natioal Press Club, honoured guests;

I would like to start by acknowledging the Ngunnawal people, who are the traditional custodians of the Canberra area, and pay my respect to the elders, past and present, of Indigenous peoples, including Afghan-Aboriginal community and their descendants!

I'd like to express my gratitude to the National Press Club and the Canberra Writer’s Festival for granting me this esteemed opportunity.

It's an honour to stand on this prestigious platform and share my thoughts as we continue to nurture hope.

August is a month of contrasting emotions for Afghans worldwide.

On one hand, it's a time of celebration as we approach the 19th of August, which is tomorrow, marking our 104th anniversary of National Day and symbolizing our hard-earned independence.

However, the shadow of August 15th looms large – a day that shattered our dreams with the return of the Taliban in 2021.

As an ambassador, responsible for both celebrating our cherished independence and acknowledging the second sombre anniversary of the Taliban's military takeover, I find myself straddling the bridge between two pivotal and deeply contrasting moments in our nation's story.

As the sun set on the 15th of August 2021, darkness enveloped the heart of the Republic of Afghanistan as it fell to the Taliban.

This event cast a shadow over millions of our fellow countrymen and women within its borders.

Their impacts have not stopped there.

Our expansive diaspora community, settled across various parts of the world, is now deeply intertwined in national, regional, and global endeavours to pave the path for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.

Yet, I recognize that the aftershocks of these events are not exclusively ours.

The gains made and, regrettably, the gains lost, were also underpinned by the dedication, investment, and sacrifices of the global community including Australia.

This shared heritage of efforts means we all, irrespective of our geographies, harbour a collective heartache for the present state of affairs.

In this shared sorrow, a unified purpose emerges.

A shared responsibility to bring an end to this crisis, not only for the heartbeats of Afghanistan, but as a commitment to global peace and security.

While we cannot rewrite the annals of history, we are presented with the canvas of the future, waiting for us to paint it with hope and determination.

At this critical moment, Afghanistan stands at a delicate crossroads.

The choices we make now, the steps we take together, will define the legacy of our time and the hope for a harmonious Afghanistan for generations to come.

Drawing from the words of the renowned poet, Rumi: “The wound is the place, where the Light enters you.”

Today, united, we stand to let the light shine brighter and to emphasize the essence of keeping hope alive, while also championing the dream of a renewed Afghanistan.

I. At this pivotal moment in our history, the steadfast determination of Afghan diplomats is of utmost importance.

Many diplomats, like myself and my team, have remained abroad, choosing to serve not just the land of Afghanistan but the soul of our nation.

We have seen and felt our homeland's pain from thousands of miles away.

Imagine witnessing the heart of your identity, your home, tremble while standing at a distance, praying, hoping, and working for its revival.

This is our daily reality.

Amid these turbulent times, in response to the Taliban's forced takeover, we established our diplomatic group to coordinate our routine and key policy options and decisions. The group later called the Coordination Council of the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

There are around 40 missions of Afghanistan that choose to continue their services without the influence of the Taliban.

Since August 2021, the situation has grown tougher, and our work conditions are less than ideal.

Yet, these adversities have not deterred us. Instead, they have ignited our determination to uphold our moral and historic responsibility to our people, particularly during this critical period in our nation's history.

Handling situations during favourable times is straightforward, but the real test emerges in crisis management.

And as a collective, we've embraced this challenge.

Despite limited resources, and at times, complete scarcity, our embassies have remained resilient:

1. Catering to the vital consular needs of our expanding diaspora community abroad, including new evacuees and displaced individuals and their families;
2. Providing regular updates to the global community about the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation within Afghanistan;
3. Collaborating passionately with the host countries, international organisations and NGOs to address and halt the systemic human rights violations, with a heightened focus on atrocities against our women, girls, and minorities.

II. In these trying times, the role of the Embassy remains crucial in upholding the values and aspirations of our people:

An embassy is not just a building. It’s a symbol of hope, connection, & sovereignty.

The Embassy of Afghanistan in Australia is a testament to this spirit.

Despite challenges, we've managed to keep the doors open, extending hands to our diaspora, offering essential consular services, preserving our rich Afghan identity, and ensuring that our heritage is not lost but celebrated and shared.

Often, those who visit us are not only here for consular services.

They arrive quietly, park their cars, and bring along their children, friends, and spouses.

They stand proudly, pausing to capture a selfie with our tricolour flag against the backdrop of the Embassy's signboard.

It’s not just a simple photo moment; it's a profound act.

Each selfie captures more than just faces; it encapsulates memories, shared histories, respect for their ancestral land, an affirmation of their ties to their Embassy in Canberra, and an aspiration for a brighter, more promising future they envision for Afghanistan.

It's also noteworthy to mention that in April 2022, a committed group of skilled constructors and builders from Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra collaborated over three weekends, selflessly contributing their expertise to the Embassy.

They conducted repairs and maintenance that would have otherwise incurred expenses amounting to around tens of thousands of dollars.

This endeavour was not just about repairs; it embodied a significant gesture of support and encouragement.

This act, bolstered the morale of my team and me, reminding us that with such steadfast support from our community, we can unyieldingly continue to provide our essential services to our growing Afghan-origin community of around 100 thousand in Australia and close to 20 thousand in New Zealand and the pacific.

III. It makes us to Keeping the Dream Alive:

Our shared objective and responsibility are clear: to resolve this crisis.

Primarily for the people of Afghanistan, but equally for the preservation of international peace and security.

Amid the turbulence that unfolded in Afghanistan, countless individuals watched with heavy hearts as the nation's brightest minds sought refuge in distant lands.

These individuals, embodying the essence of our national spirit and potential, departed our borders, yet within them resides a promise of a brighter future for Afghanistan.

For while the world may perceive their exodus as a 'brain-drain', I urge you to see it from another perspective:

Today's diaspora, this movement of our most educated and talented, isn't a loss but a preservation.

Today’s brain-drains are not mere departures, but our tomorrow’s brain-saved.

These individuals, armed with their knowledge, experiences, and the resilience borne out of love for their homeland, are the very seeds that, when the time is right, can be replanted to rejuvenate our great nation.

In fields from sports to academia, our determination and resilience echo with pride, ensuring the embers of hope, culture, and unity, never extinguish.

When the Women’s World Cup commenced late last month, members of the Afghan Women's National Team, many of whom were recently evacuated to Australia, took to the field once more.

In a poignant display of unity and support, they kick-around alongside Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Sports Minister Annika Wells, and Assistant Foreign Minister, Tim Watts.

Additionally, about ten other ministers from foreign affairs and sports were present to celebrate the resilience, courage, and dreams of these young women.

Their endeavour was further bolstered by the former captain of the Afghan National Women's Team, Khalida Popal, who is putting great advocacy efforts while living in exile in Denmark. She is sitting among us today.

I had the honour of standing alongside the Afghan Women National Team, Foreign Minister, and other dignitaries, jointly appealing to FIFA to recognize our girls' team and let them play and represent their generation in exile.

In the past two decades, many individuals who pursued higher education in Australia from Afghanistan went on to assume pivotal leadership roles within the republican government. They harboured grand visions for pushing their nation forward.

Today, as circumstances have changed, most of these talented individuals have been evacuated and have found refuge in various Australian cities. Yet, even miles away, their hearts constantly resonate with a yearning for their homeland.

These individuals represent the invaluable intellectual capital that Afghanistan preserves for the post-Taliban era.

I am collaborating with a dedicated team of 10 young male and female scholars from Afghanistan in Australia. They have either earned their doctoral degrees or are in the process of completing their doctoral degrees at Australian universities. Together, we are working on shaping a forward-looking agenda for Afghanistan's future.

On the 15th of August at the Whitlam Institute in Sydney, I had the honour of collaborating with Shuja Jamal, along with the esteemed Professor William Maley, an expert in Afghan Studies and Professor Emeritus of the Australian National University, for the launch of their joint book: 'The Decline and Fall of Republican Afghanistan’.

We are privileged to have Professor Maley with us here today.

Before his evacuation, Shuja served as the director-general for international relations on Kabul’s National Security Council.

This book stands as the inaugural academic account detailing the decline of Republican Afghanistan.

Shuja, a Fulbright scholar, now residing in Australia, served as the advisor to the Australian Refugee Council and is currently advancing his studies in law.

The stories of resilience, of unyielding spirit, echo loudly, reminding us, and the world, that Afghanistan lives on.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Elevating public and private education, fostering economic development, strengthening democratic institutions and political representation, safeguarding human rights, empowering women and girls, upholding freedom of speech, press, and access to information, nurturing arts, culture, music, sports, and all facets of socio-economic progress in Afghanistan have encountered arbitrary obstacles and constraints imposed by the Taliban group.

These restrictions stem from their misinterpretation of Islam and sharia law, which diverges from the beliefs of countries and Muslim communities worldwide.

The world witnessed, that with all these wrongdoings of the Taliban that we know about, even though there are lack of freedom of press and media in Afghanistan, how can be convinced that the Taliban have changed for the better, compared to their repressive totalitarian regime of the 1990s.

Should the Afghan nation and the international community accept the deprivation of millions of Afghan women and girls from their fundamental rights, such as employment, access outside of their doorsteps, and education, as a new normal?

IV. This requires greater understanding, enhanced collaboration, unified approach and continuous international support:

In her key remarks at the Gender Equality Symposium on the sidelines of the Women’s World Cup, Foreign Minister Penny Wong concluded by emphasizing a key word while addressing the presence of the Afghan Women's National Team: unity.

She stated, 'We can succeed if we work together as a team.’

Collaboration and teamwork is more critical now than ever.

With the international community by our side, we've witnessed numerous partnerships blossom, each one playing a pivotal role in keeping hope alive for Afghanistan.

I must convey my profound appreciation to both the Australian government and its people.

Your unwavering support for the Afghan people, spanning over two decades, in the areas of education, agriculture, human rights, financial stability and gender equality has been nothing short of monumental.

This dedication has only intensified during the evacuation processes, evident in the warm reception granted to Afghan evacuees.

Additionally, our heartfelt gratitude extends to the Australian veterans, whom we have the honour of their presence among us today; the courageous service men and women and the Australian heroic soldiers who have fallen to promote the shared right cause and aspirations.

Our hearts and minds remain with the grieved families and friends, for ever.

Afghanistan, as one of the earliest UN members since 1946, signed numerous central international human rights treaties.

Among these is the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

Additionally, Afghanistan's 2004 constitution, celebrated as one of the most progressive and democratic in our region, articulates in Article 7 that 'the State shall adhere to the UN charter, international treaties, conventions Afghanistan is a party to, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.'

Early this year, the UN Security Council reported the Afghan economy had contracted by an estimated 70% since the Taliban takeover.

Around 20% of the 40 million people of Afghanistan are facing severe malnutrition, poverty is impacting more than 90% of the country's population, with over half of Afghans reliant on humanitarian aid, and 90% struggle with food insecurity.

The absence of rule of law has led to the increased threat of international terrorism.

The June 2023 report of the United Nations cites an increase in the presence of international terrorist groups, a strong and symbiotic link between the Taliban and such groups, and that “the threat of terrorism is rising in both Afghanistan and the region.”

Women are completely blocked from returning to their places of employment and business, with only less than 5% of women able to work.

It is worth it to remind ourselves that this year, the world commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

It is a landmark achievement in human history. However, we are confronted with starkly contrasting realities in Afghanistan.

Just imagine: A violent extremist group, seizing a strategically located United Nations member state, stands in stark opposition by entirely discarding the fundamental principles of the U.N. Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and nearly all major international treaties and conventions.

What is certain, and I am sure you share it with me, is that, despite the false and imposed optimism, the Taliban have never changed.

The group has re-enacted their draconian policies and directives from the 1990s.

Arbitrary detentions including of women activists, forced disappearances, collective punishment, media crackdowns, extra-judicial killings, and torture, including of former members of the national security forces and government officials remain normal practices under this militant group.

An absolute prevails of fear, trauma, physical and psychological insecurity, that have been forcing hundreds of thousands of vibrant Afghans to leave the country.

V. This calls Global Solidarity:

Diplomacy, at its core, is about understanding, empathy, and unity.

As we forge ahead, it's imperative to remember that while we cannot change the past, we have the power, the will, and the collective spirit to shape a new and promising future.

Through various initiatives, we've brought together people of diverse backgrounds to share their hopes and dreams for Afghanistan, nurturing a global community that champions a brighter future for our homeland.

VI. Conclusion:

As we, the Council of Ambassadors find ourselves at this pivotal juncture, it's crucial to hold onto hope, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

On behalf of the Council, I call upon Australia and the global community to stand alongside us.

In light of seeking a renewed international strategy, I would like to emphasize the following eight points:

1. Enhancing the scale and efficiency of humanitarian assistance: to meet the urgent and growing lifesaving needs of the people of Afghanistan. There are worrisome reports of some cases in which humanitarian assistance is being reduced to some degree. Mechanisms should also be put in place to ensure aid is not diverted and misappropriated,
2. Challenge Narrow Perspectives: It's essential to approach the current situation with a nuanced understanding. We must caution against reductive stereotypes that portray the Taliban as the "true" or "authentic" representation of Afghanistan. It's crucial to note that approximately 70% of Afghans are under the age of 30. This vast majority represents a new generation that has grown up in an increasingly globalized world. Their aspirations, dreams, and experiences resonate with global hopes and ambitions. Oversimplifying and reducing their diverse experiences and aspirations to a singular stereotype does a grave disservice to the rich tapestry of Afghan society.
3. Support Refugee Resettlement: Our refugees, as we often say, embody our hope and represent our future. In light of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) principle, we urge for advocacy and contributions to programs assisting Afghan refugees. I'm grateful for the sustained efforts of the Co-chairs and members of the Afghanistan Friendship Group at the Australian Parliament.
4. Reject Recognition of Taliban’s Regime: I appreciate the Australian Government, the Australian people and the Afghan diaspora for maintaining their current principled position and supportive role, together with the rest of the world, to the cause and struggle of the people of Afghanistan, particularly women and girls, in avoiding international recognition to and unconditional engagement with the Taliban and ensuring their atrocities do not become the new normal.
5. New strong measures are needed to move from monitoring to investigation and ensuring accountability for regarding human rights violations in Afghanistan. Violations of the fundamental rights of Afghan women and girls should be recognized as gender apartheid by the international community. It is also important to mention that a great ongoing academic and policy research is being conducted by Afghan-Australian scholar, Farkhundeh Akbar, in collaboration with Prof. Jaquie True from Monash University.
6. There's an urgent need for coordination and consensus in international efforts. We aim to initiate a political process through a credible national dialogue, supervised by the United Nations. It's essential to involve all Afghan stakeholders in this dialogue, especially democratic political forces, civil society, women, youth groups, and political parties. Our goal is to steer the country towards a legitimate, representative, and accountable system that truly mirrors the rights and aspirations of the Afghan people."
7. Adopting more coordinated and effective measures to address the dangerous threat emanating from the presence of various foreign terrorist groups as well as the production and trafficking of narcotics, which constitute a significant security threat for Afghanistan, our region, and the wider world.
8. Empower Afghan Girls through Education: Increased platforms should be given for the empowerment of Afghan women as a matter of priority. I call on each Australian university to allocate at least 3 scholarship positions specifically for Afghan girls, enabling them to pursue education and contribute to a brighter future.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I would like to conclude my speech by these very fine lines of Hafiz, one of our popular lyric poet:

رسید مژده که ایام غم نخواهد ماند

چنان نماند چنین هم نخواهد ماند

غنیمتی شمر ای شمع، وصل پروانه

که این معامله تا صبحدم نخواهد ماند

ز مهربانی جانان طمع مبر حافظ

که نقش جور و نشان ستم نخواهد ماند

[TRANSLATION]

Arrived the glad tidings that grief's time, shall not remain

Like that joy's time remained not; like this grief's time, shall not remain

O candle, reckon union with the moth, a great gain

For even till dawn, this commerce, shall not remain

Hafiz, sever not desire for the true Beloved's favour

For the picture of violence and the mark of tyranny, shall not remain

With this promising and hopeful note, Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you for your presence and standing with us today, for allowing the voice of Afghanistan, once again, to resonate in this hall. Let's march forward, shoulder to shoulder, nurturing hope, and making the dream of Afghanistan a living reality.