The SSTI Thematic Convening took place from 15–17 July 2025 in Rome, Italy, following a two-
day online workshop on 5–6 July 2025. This convening focused on political participation and
engagement with key political processes related to Afghanistan.
The thematic groups, developed over time within SSTI, worked on areas such as human rights,
governance, development, and women’s participation. This event focused specifically on
political participation and engagement in political processes concerning Afghanistan.
The online workshop examined practical steps toward meaningful engagement. The group
developed long-term recommendations and a short-term action plan to implement the
participation strategy. The in-person meeting in Rome continued these discussions and
disseminated key messages through engagements with key actors and stakeholders.
Objectives included:
• Identifying entry points in peace and policy processes for Afghan women’s meaningful
participation.
• Developing an actionable implementation plan for the SSTI cohort with specific milestones.
• Proposing mechanisms for inclusion and influence, leveraging collective expertise.
• Engaging with the Italian Foreign Ministry, policymakers, the Special Envoy, and the
Ambassador to Afghanistan to identify viable opportunities for participation in key decision-
making spaces.