Concept Note IntroductionThe Matilda Effect, named in honour of Matilda Joslyn Gage, refers not only to the historical overlooking or appropriation of women’s achievements in science and knowledge but also to a broader, systematic pattern of silencing women’s voices and erasing their contributions across public, political, social, and cultural spheres. More than four years into…
Introduction Afghanistan stands at a precarious crossroads under the Taliban regime, where the seeds of extremism are sown among boys through ideologically driven education, while girls and women are systematically excluded from schooling beyond primary levels and barred from most professional workspaces. This dual crisis not only perpetuates cycles of radicalization and inequality but also…
Introduction: Since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover, Afghanistan has become a terrorism hub, hosting Al-Qaeda, TTP, and others despite regime denials. This seminar examines the Taliban’s role in transnational threats, cross-border ambitions, and ideological ties to Hamas in Gaza and HTS in Syria. Convened by Bareen Initiative for Development (BID), it fosters evidence-based dialogue among experts…
Introduction Pakistan’s foreign and security policy toward the Taliban has been one of the most complex and contentious issues in South Asian regional dynamics. Once recognized as a key supporter of the Taliban in past decades, Pakistan has recently shown signs of a significant policy shift, moving toward opposition to the group. This strategic…
IntroductionThe Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 marked a pivotal shift in South Asia’s political and geopolitical landscape. India, a key regional power with significant investments in Afghanistan during the Republic era, has navigated this transition with a cautious yet pragmatic approach toward the Taliban. This evolving relationship, characterized by diplomatic engagement,…
IntroductionThe education system, as the backbone of societal development, plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals, alleviating poverty, fostering social cohesion, and driving economic progress. In Afghanistan, following the year 2001, the education system witnessed remarkable progress with substantial international support. However, the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021 and their restrictive policies particularly…
IntroductionAfghanistan stands at a critical juncture in its history. Following the withdrawal of international forces and the Taliban’s reassertion of power, political and international lobbying in support of the Taliban, alongside initiatives such as the UNAMA Mosaic Plan (United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan), have sparked significant debate. This online seminar aims to critically examine…
IntroductionIn an era marked by rising polarization and ideological extremism, communities worldwide face significant threats to social cohesion, peace, and security. Extremist ideologies—whether rooted in political, religious, or social narratives—exploit vulnerabilities such as marginalization, misinformation, and socioeconomic disparities. The Bareen Initiative for Development (BID), committed to fostering sustainable development and social harmony, proposes a 2-hour…
