Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT) was founded in 2010 by a young college graduate who had the vision of a peaceful, tolerant, open, and progressive Afghan society, a vision that is shared by hundreds of thousands of other Afghan youths. Prior to founding APT, He had begun the journey toward his vision by organizing intercultural dialogues between Afghans and internationals in Lucknow, India, where he was working to earn his bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

APT is the largest youth-led national organization that works to promote peace and critical thinking among youth and children in Afghanistan. APT uses two social theories of change, namely contact theory of change and critical thinking theory of change, to reach its vision. The ability to think critically builds an individual’s capacity to potentially challenge existing social, political, economic, and cultural systems in constructive and transformative ways. In addition, contact theory stipulates that increased contact with ‘the other’ opens channels of communication, creates shared spaces and experiences, builds the understanding of the challenges and realities of the other’s contexts, which, in turn challenges misconceptions, reduces prejudices, and fosters respect towards diversity.

Since its inception in 2010, APT activities have impacted and inspired over 40,000 youth and children to build a vision for a just and inclusive society and work as peacebuilder realizing this vision and contributing to positive changes in the community. Currently, APT runs 35 debate clubs in 35 public and private universities in Afghanistan. 

VISION

To promote peace and critical thinking among youth and children in Afghanistan.

APT REACHES ITS VISION BY FOCUSING ON THREE MAIN AREAS:

> Capacity building through debate and leadership development programs;

Their debate activities build youth's and university students' critical thinking which enables them to challenge the stereotypes that people have about the younger generation. Their leadership program builds the competency of the youth to be

> Research and advocacy through publications, conferences, and media talk shows;

Their advocacy work creates space for youth to be involved in the decision-making process in politics and the peace processes in the most effective ways.

> Networking through exposure trips within Afghanistan and abroad, and APT Alumni Community events.