In a time of unprecedented global humanitarian challenges, the Afghan diaspora continues to demonstrate its commitment and capacity to mobilize support across borders. Afghanistan is currently affected by dire economic conditions and climate disasters, where the Afghan diaspora has stepped in on key areas such as protection information and infrastructure rebuilding.  

On 20th & 21st October 2025, DEMAC will host a two-day conference in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together Afghan diaspora actors, humanitarian professionals, and other key stakeholders to explore the evolving role of diaspora engagement in Afghanistan’s relief and development efforts. 

Held under the title “Afghan Diaspora in Action: Strengthening Dialogue and Supporting Afghanistan Across Borders”, the conference will serve as a strategic platform to reflect on the shifting humanitarian landscape, celebrate diaspora contributions, and promote closer collaboration amid decreasing institutional aid and protracted crises. 

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s most complex humanitarian contexts. The abrupt halt of bilateral development assistance following the August 2021 political transition, worsened by the recent suspension of U.S. funding, has left critical gaps in aid delivery. The country continues to struggle with economic collapse, climate-related and natural disasters, limited access to healthcare, and high levels of internal displacement and forced returns from neighbouring countries. 

In this evolving environment, diaspora organizations have emerged as indispensable actors. Rooted in cultural knowledge, community trust, and transnational networks, Afghan diaspora groups are uniquely positioned to deliver fast, flexible, and locally informed responses, often reaching communities that remain inaccessible to traditional humanitarian actors. 

This conference will spotlight the diverse and impactful contributions of Afghan diaspora organizations across the humanitarian spectrum. From emergency relief to long-term recovery and development, diaspora actors are playing a critical role in sustaining communities and rebuilding lives. 

One notable example was the response to the 2023 Herat earthquake, where DEMAC’s mapping revealed that 38 diaspora organizations mobilized over USD 3.4 million in the first three months of the crisis. These efforts effectively filled urgent gaps in aid, in addition to demonstrating the diaspora’s ability to act swiftly in times of need. 

Beyond financial support, diaspora organizations are deeply engaged in providing psychosocial assistance, education, and livelihood support. Their long-term commitment and ability to remain engaged across crisis stages make them indispensable contributors to Afghanistan’s developments. 

By recognizing the diversity within the Afghan diaspora, spanning generations, geographies, and perspectives, the conference emphasizes the importance of strengthening dialogue and building unity. Sessions will focus on building trust, enhancing coordination, and sharing common narratives that support greater engagement and collaboration. 

Participants will explore innovative diaspora-led funding models, including crowdfunding initiatives and strategic partnerships that can help scale and sustain locally led solutions. Discussions will also address the need for inclusive mechanisms that recognize and support the diaspora’s role in humanitarian coordination and policy dialogue. Furthermore, the conference will also celebrate Afghan culture and identity through art and music.  

The two-day event will feature a dynamic mix of plenary sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and side events. Keynote speakers and expert panels address fundamental themes such as diaspora coordination, cross-border collaboration, and engagement with local actors in Afghanistan. 

Parallel workshops will provide space for in-depth discussions on mental health, protection, youth engagement, and diaspora partnerships with local actors. These sessions will encourage peer learning, knowledge exchange, and practical solutions. All sessions will be held in English, with simultaneous interpretation available in Dari to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.