The values and commitments that guide the process.
To sustain an inclusive, Afghan-led democratic dialogue rooted in human rights, pluralism and peaceful political participation.
To connect democratic actors, develop shared positions, preserve an accessible public record and strengthen international understanding.
The process supports equal participation, accountable institutions and the fundamental rights of every Afghan.
The Vienna Process began in April 2022 with a small but significant conference initiated and supported by Christian Reder, Fahima Zahma, Nur Safa, and Manizha Bakhtar, and facilitated by Wolfgang Petritsch. This first Vienna Conference brought together approximately 30 Afghan exiles, including representatives of political parties opposed to the Taliban, former members of ethnic communities, and government officials, to discuss women's rights and democratic prospects. The most recent, fifth Vienna Conference, held in February 2025, was attended by around 100 political figures representing 50 institutions.
The conference featured five separate sessions, two of which focused on presenting the finalized, detailed Roadmap prepared by the Working Committees. This roadmap was unanimously approved by all participants. The approved roadmap emphasized key principles such as democracy, constitutional governance, the separation of powers, and human rights. Establishment of the Grand National Commission: The conference led to the establishment of a Grand National Commission, which will coordinate national consensus e orts among diverse political groups and civil society actors.
