SNCSD

Solidarity Network for Change and Sustainable Development

Our History

The Solidarity Network for Change and Sustainable Development (SNCSD) was founded in 2012 under its original name, the Solidarity Network for Change (SNC), through the initiative of a group of civil society activists, cultural and literary figures, and young people active in Afghanistan’s social and political spheres.

Since its establishment, the network has worked to strengthen social solidarity, expand women’s and youth participation, advocate for citizens’ rights, and bring about positive change in society. The organization’s establishment was also recorded in the May 2014 report of The Liaison Office (TLO). The official operating license of the Solidarity Network for Change (SNC) was most recently renewed by Afghanistan’s Ministry of Economy on 8 March 2016, under number 4011.

In 2021, to articulate the organization’s vision more precisely and deepen its fundamental objectives, its name was changed to the Solidarity Network for Change and Sustainable Development. This change continued and expanded its previous mission: Positive change is our path; sustainable development is our ultimate goal. For SNCSD, sustainable development connects human rights and social justice with education, poverty reduction, economic opportunities, and responsible natural resource management.

Our Activities and Background

The organization has consistently focused on educating and building the capacities of young people, access to education and technical and vocational training, meaningful participation by women, and support for vulnerable and marginalized communities.

The Solidarity Network has consistently taken clear positions against violence targeting civilians—particularly targeted attacks on travelers along insecure routes—and called for citizens’ security and accountability from the relevant authorities. The organization has played a constructive role in major political, cultural, and social issues and participated in national discussions on elections and civic transparency. Parts of this record and these contributions are reflected in documents and reports published in 2014 and 2016.

Following the political developments of August 2021, serious security challenges and considerations changed the network’s operational approach. To protect the lives of colleagues and members, the organization’s previous website was taken offline, resulting in the loss of much of its digital archive. Nevertheless, the network did not cease its activities. Its focus shifted to documenting the human rights situation, engaging with credible international organizations, exploring support and livelihood solutions for vulnerable families, and advocating for victims of human rights violations.

Our Vision

A stable, just Afghanistan enjoying sustainable development, where all citizens, without discrimination, have fundamental rights, equal opportunities, and a life of dignity.

Our Mission

To contribute to positive and lasting change through human rights advocacy, support for vulnerable communities, stronger civic participation, education and empowerment of women and young people, research and informed advocacy, and greater collaboration with credible national and international organizations.

Sustainable development forms the overarching framework of our work. Respect for human rights, poverty reduction, universal access to education, expansion of economic opportunities, and social participation are interconnected dimensions of this mission.

Priority Programs

1. Supporting Vulnerable Families

SNCSD is committed to identifying those genuinely in need through careful, impartial, and transparent needs assessments and engaging with credible partner organizations to help provide livelihood support, educational opportunities, and sustainable income-generating opportunities. Women-headed households, families living in poverty, children out of school, and girls denied continued education are among our highest priorities. Transparency, fair selection, accountability, data confidentiality, and prevention of aid diversion are fundamental principles of this program. (These statements describe the organization’s priorities and strategic objectives and do not constitute a firm financial commitment backed by funding already secured.)

2. Documenting Human Rights Violations and Advocating for Victims

SNCSD intends to document discrimination, violence, threats, and violations of fundamental human rights using scientific, evidence-based methods and, following verification and full observance of safety measures, refer the findings to international human rights mechanisms and bodies. Referrals of individuals at risk to protection organizations are subject to their informed consent, the capacity of credible partners, and assessment of security conditions. Fully protecting the identities of victims, eyewitnesses, and information sources, and adhering to the “Do No Harm” principle, are non-negotiable priorities.

Official Documents and Verification Sources

Part of the organization’s history, activities, and public positions is recorded in documents and reports by credible national and international institutions. Legal records, statutes, and documents relating to the 2021 merger are also preserved in the organization’s internal archive:

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