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Program

Psychosocial Support Program for Human Rights Defenders & Peace Actors

About the Program

This program was designed to provide sustained psychosocial support to human rights defenders, journalists, peacebuilders, and members of community dialogue committees across Afghanistan.

The initiative was implemented online in collaboration with volunteer psychologists, responding to the increasing mental health needs of individuals working in high-risk and stressful environments.

Program Structure

The program was delivered in three intensive cycles, each consisting of:

  • 15 in-depth sessions
  • 2-hour sessions per meeting

Each cycle also included individual and group counselling sessions.

Key Focus Areas

  • Mental health awareness and emotional resilience
  • Coping strategies for stress and trauma
  • Decision-making after managing psychological pressure
  • Peer support and shared learning

Target Groups

  • Human rights defenders
  • Journalists
  • Peacebuilders
  • Members of the 34 community dialogue committees

Impact

  • Strengthened psychological resilience
  • Improved decision-making under pressure
  • Increased awareness of mental health and self-care
  • Creation of peer support networks

Approach

The program combined:

  • Structured online training
  • Professional psychological support
  • Community-based engagement