Broadening Awareness of Democracy in Afghanistan

Current phase: 2009–2011
Project budget: $2 million

The Asia Foundation (TAF) is helping to increase the awareness of democratic processes in Afghanistan through community-based outreach programs, with particular focus on improving women's participation through the piloting of civic education initiatives. The Asia Foundation, through local broadcasters, is developing a culturally appropriate radio drama series targeted to rural audiences that integrates information on the principles and values of democracy in an accessible way.

TAF is partnering with local non-governmental organizations, including the Afghan Civil Society Forum, to create a mobile theatre. The theatre will educate people in provinces in the south (Kandahar) and east (Jalalabad) on the importance of elections and the role for Afghan citizens and voters in democratic processes. TAF is working in coordination with the Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan to pilot mock elections in some targeted schools and universities in selected cities (Kabul, Herat, Kandahar and Balkh) and provinces.