Advocacy, Human Rights & Public Awareness

AABRAR’s Rights-Based Evolution Since 1992

Established in 1992, the Afghan Amputee Bicyclists for Rehabilitation and Recreation (AABRAR) began as a grassroots initiative dedicated to restoring the physical mobility and dignity of persons with disabilities (PwDs) through bicycle training and physical rehabilitation. However, as AABRAR worked tirelessly across Afghanistan over the decades, it became clear that physical rehabilitation alone could not break the cycle of marginalization.

AABRAR recognized that lasting change requires shifting societal attitudes and protecting fundamental human rights. In 2006, AABRAR became one of the first focused NGOs in Afghanistan to shift its programming framework to a rights-based approach, working closely with the Ministry of Labor, the ILO, and NPAD/UNDP. Today, AABRAR is a leading advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, women, children, and youth. AABRAR works tirelessly to remove the negative stigma attached to disability, promote gender equality, and ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard at the community, provincial, and national levels.

AABRAR’s Advocacy & Awareness Activities

AABRAR implements a comprehensive advocacy strategy designed to educate the public, empower marginalized groups, and influence policy.

1. Disability Rights Advocacy

Activities: AABRAR advocates for the full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the Afghanistan National Disability Action Plan (ANDAP). AABRAR conducts specialized training workshops on physical accessibility, educating communities and government officials on the importance of inclusive infrastructure (such as ramps). AABRAR also raises awareness to negate the negative cultural stigma attached to disability, promoting the social participation and integration of PwDs into all aspects of community life.
Generous Donors: AABRAR’s disability rights advocacy is generously supported by the European Union (EU), USIP (United States Institute of Peace), and UNDP.

2. Women’s and Children’s Rights

Activities: AABRAR is deeply committed to promoting women's rights and ending violence against women. AABRAR conducts awareness campaigns and training workshops focused on the National Action Plan for the Women of Afghanistan (NAPWA). AABRAR also advocates for children's rights, emphasizing the importance of child protection and education for all. AABRAR uses community dialogues to challenge harmful traditional norms and promote gender equality.
Generous Donors: AABRAR’s women's and children's rights programs are supported by The Asia Foundation, Counterpart International / STEP, and the European Union (EU).

3. Civic Education and Human Rights Awareness

Activities: AABRAR conducts extensive civic education programs to help citizens understand their fundamental human rights, the rule of law, and the responsibilities of the government towards its citizens. AABRAR facilitates community and provincial dialogues, Focused Group Discussions (FGDs), and public awareness sessions on democracy, justice, and peace. AABRAR specifically advocates for the rights and responsibilities of youth, ensuring they are equipped to participate actively in civil society.
Generous Donors: AABRAR’s civic education initiatives are generously funded by USIP, DAI (Development Alternatives, Inc.), and ASI (Afghanistan Stabilization Initiative).

4. Specialized Awareness Workshops

Activities: AABRAR delivers targeted awareness workshops to specific community groups and professionals. These include:
- Health Professionals: Physical Rehabilitation and Disability Awareness training for doctors, nurses, and midwives.
- Mine Awareness: Educating communities on the risks of landmines and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) to prevent civilian casualties.
- Health & Social Issues: Workshops on HIV/AIDS awareness, leadership skills, and the rights of ex-militants to ensure their smooth reintegration into society.
Generous Donors: AABRAR’s specialized awareness workshops have been supported by WHO, UNICEF, and UNMACA.

5. Media and Cultural Advocacy

Activities: AABRAR harnesses the power of media to drive social change. AABRAR’s Media Department produces and broadcasts television and radio dramas that focus on human rights, women's rights, the rights of PwDs, and anti-corruption (titles include Palaces, Fallen Faces, Waves, Dunya, and Edge of Cliff). AABRAR also publishes a quarterly magazine named "Daley" (The Gift), which serves as a platform for youth to write articles and learn about their rights. Additionally, AABRAR organizes radio and television roundtables to discuss community challenges.
Generous Donors: AABRAR’s media and cultural advocacy programs are generously supported by INTERNEWS, USIP, and Counterpart International.

6. Sports and Recreational Advocacy

Activities: AABRAR uses sports as a powerful tool for social inclusion and advocacy. AABRAR organizes football, volleyball, wheelchair basketball, and cricket tournaments for both able-bodied individuals and PwDs. Every year on December 3rd (International Day of Persons with Disabilities), AABRAR organizes a high-profile Bicycle Race to celebrate the abilities of PwDs and advocate for an accessible Afghanistan. AABRAR also encourages youth participation through debates and poetry sessions.
Generous Donors: AABRAR’s recreational and sports advocacy programs have been supported by Clear Path International (CPI) and the European Union (EU).

Beneficiaries of AABRAR’s Advocacy & Awareness Programs

AABRAR’s advocacy initiatives are designed to create a ripple effect, empowering individuals while educating the broader community:

Persons with Disabilities (PwDs): Who gain a stronger voice, increased visibility, and greater protection of their rights under national and international law.
Women and Girls: Who are empowered through awareness of their rights (NAPWA) and advocacy against gender-based violence.
Children and Youth: Who learn about their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of education, while gaining platforms for self-expression.
Health Workers (Doctors, Nurses, Midwives): Who are trained to provide inclusive, stigma-free healthcare to PwDs.
Community Leaders, Elders, and Religious Scholars: Who are engaged as key allies in spreading awareness and shifting cultural norms.
Ex-Militants: Who receive awareness training to support their reintegration and understanding of human rights.
The General Public: Who benefit from a more informed, tolerant, and inclusive society through AABRAR’s TV dramas, radio programs, and magazine publications.

Our Generous Partners in Advocacy & Awareness

AABRAR’s ability to champion human rights, shift cultural norms, and empower vulnerable communities is made possible by the generous support of its dedicated partners. AABRAR extends its deepest gratitude to:

USIP (United States Institute of Peace)
European Union (EU)
The Asia Foundation
INTERNEWS
Counterpart International / STEP
DAI (Development Alternatives, Inc.)
ASI (Afghanistan Stabilization Initiative)
UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)
Clear Path International (CPI)
(Additional AABRAR multi-sector donors include: UNICEF, UNHCR, WHO, AHF/OCHA, WFP, and UNMACA).

Through these comprehensive advocacy and awareness initiatives, AABRAR continues its 34+-year mission of building a peaceful, just, and equitable Afghanistan where every citizen—regardless of ability, gender, or background—can live with dignity and respect.