The Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies (AISS) was established in October 2012 and has become a leading research institution in Afghanistan. It aims to create an intellectual space to address strategic issues related to Afghanistan in regional and international contexts. AISS is an independent, non-profit research institute that engages in qualitative, policy-oriented research, publication, book/report translation, professional training, and policy advocacy with a focus on Afghanistan. AISS aims to stimulate debate on Afghanistan by publishing research reports and encouraging dialogue among a wide range of stakeholders. It states that its activities and programs are based on the principles of professionalism, independence, internationalism, and values. AISS’s shared priority is to empower youth through initiatives, as youth represent the future of the country. It has a partnership agreement to contribute to the ongoing efforts to develop the country’s human and natural resources. In this regard, the organization organizes seminars, conferences, workshops (provincial, national, international), briefings and translations of important books/articles from English to Persian/Persian.
Providing executive-type leadership training programs, Other activities include presenting and sponsoring annual public awards to recognize Afghan youth and international personalities, integrating traditional and modern social media tools/networks into its activities. The current research interests of the organization include democratic state building process; national security, sustainable economic development, regional cooperation/integration, US/West-Afghanistan strategic partnerships, Islamic Renaissance and Khorasan ideas (national/regional cultural integration/renewal). The governance mechanism of the organization consists of three main units: “Board of Directors”, “Advisory Board” and “Academic Research Team”. The organization believes that financial independence is important. In this respect, volunteerism is an important aspect of the organization’s work. In addition, sustainability and transparency are among the principles of the organization. The institution has a large pool of researchers and provides international scholarships to researchers who meet the requirements.”
