A Historic Event on the Path to Justice

Abstract
From 8 to 10 October 2025, as an initiative emerging from Afghan civil society and within the framework of the Permanent People’s Tribunal, headquartered in Italy, the People’s Tribunal for Afghan Women was convened in Madrid. This tribunal was widely welcomed by Afghan public opinion, and its proceedings were broadcast live by the media and shared transparently.
The organisation of this tribunal was the result of a joint initiative proposed by four dynamic human rights organisations: the Afghanistan Human Rights and Democracy Organisation (AHRDO), the Organization for Policy Research and Development (DROPS), Rawadari, and Human Rights Defenders Plus (HRD+). Since beginning 2024, these four civil society organisations have persistently advocated at the international level for the establishment of a people’s tribunal in support of human rights in Afghanistan.
Accordingly, it was essential for these organisations to provide precise evidence and information to the International People’s Tribunal in order to confirm the appropriate conditions for convening a special tribunal dedicated to supporting the rights of Afghan women. Ultimately, after sustained efforts and the submission of analyses, reports, and documentation on the human rights situation of women in Afghanistan, the International People’s Tribunal reviewed and approved the proposal—an achievement that constitutes a major milestone in human rights advocacy.
This article adopts the descriptive and an analytical approach to introduce the function of people’s tribunals to Afghan and international audiences. Particular attention is given to their background, methods of operation, and role, followed by a primary focus on the People’s Tribunal in support of Afghan women. A significant number of civil society organisations and human rights activists operate outside the country and maintain links with governments, international structures, and global civil and human rights institutions. In addition, many Afghan youths are studying at universities around the world. This article seeks to inform and connect these dynamic groups so that, through stronger coordination and strategic participation, they can play a more effective role in supporting the human rights of Afghan women.