8 September 2026 | Victoria Hall, Geneva, Switzerland
As part of “Blooming Afghanistan: Art Resists – Hope Blooms,” an evening of music, culture, and dialogue will take place on 8 September 2026 at Victoria Hall in Geneva.
The programme will bring together Afghan music, cultural expression, and conversations on the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural rights of the people of Afghanistan.
The evening will feature a special performance by Aseman Ensemble, bringing together musicians and artists whose work reflects the richness and diversity of Afghan musical traditions. The programme will also include a special appearance by guest singer Dawood Pezhman.
Programme
18:30–19:30 — Panel Discussion: Cultural Rights in Afghanistan
The evening will begin with a panel discussion focusing on the current state of cultural rights in Afghanistan, the challenges facing artists and cultural practitioners, and the importance of protecting Afghanistan’s diverse cultural heritage.
19:30–20:00 — Afghan Finger Food
Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy Afghan food and connect with participants, artists, and members of the Afghan and international communities.
20:30–22:00 — Aseman Ensemble Concert
The evening will conclude with a live concert by Aseman Ensemble, celebrating Afghan music, artistic expression, and cultural diversity.
Guest Singer: Dawood Pezhman
📅 Date: 8 September 2026
📍 Venue: Victoria Hall, Rue du Général-Dufour 14, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland
🎵 Concert: 20:30–22:00
Celebrating Culture, Protecting Identity
Culture is an essential part of identity, dignity, and social connection. In a context where artists, musicians, and cultural practitioners in Afghanistan face increasing restrictions, creating spaces for cultural expression is itself an important act of resilience.
Through music, dialogue, and community, this event aims to celebrate Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage while drawing attention to the importance of safeguarding cultural rights and freedom of artistic expression.
The event brings together Afghan and international organisations, artists, human rights defenders, cultural practitioners, and members of the community in support of a future where Afghan culture can continue to flourish freely and inclusively.
Music connects. Culture preserves. Art resists. Hope blooms.
Organisers
Victoria Hall | OMCT – SOS-Torture Network | Human Rights Defenders Plus (HRD+) | Civil Society & Human Rights Network | AHRDO | Artistic Initiative for Freedom | Action for Development
Partners
Embassy & Permanent Mission of Afghanistan to the United Nations in Geneva | Swiss Confederation | Forum-Asia | ADDO | Center for Human Rights Advocacy | Dialogue Hub for Common Ground | Centre for Development and Peace – Geneva (CDP-G) | Embassy of Foreign Artists
