About Us
Local Partner, Global Insights
Who we are!
ACSTD is an Afghan-led think-and-do tank and strategic advisory firm working at the nexus of conflict, governance, and democratization. We specialize in fragile and conflict-affected environments, with a core focus on Afghanistan and the broader South Asian region.
Independent and grounded in Afghan realities, we combine local insight with international standards to deliver research, policy advice, and implementation support that is both context-aware and results-driven. Our on-the-ground network across Afghanistan’s five regions — Central, South, East, West, and North — provides unparalleled access to diverse communities, local dynamics, and hard-to-reach areas.
ACSTD is legally registered in the United Kingdom as Afghanistan Center for the Study of Terrorism and Democracy (ACSTD) Ltd (Company No. SC859228).
Our Approach
We combine local insight, analytical rigour, and diverse experience to co-create solutions with stakeholders on the ground. We do not just study problems; we work to solve them strategically and sustainably.
Mission
We deliver evidence-based research, strategic advisory, and capacity development that inform policy, strengthen institutions, and create inclusive spaces for dialogue, helping partners address critical challenges such as terrorism and pressing issues such as democratization in Afghanistan and the region.
Vision
To help build a future where Afghanistan secures its rightful place in the global community as a peaceful, democratic, and thriving nation — free from terrorism and extremism, with empowered citizens and resilient institutions.
Core Values
- Integrity
- Collaboration
- Impact
- Inclusivity and Equality
- Independence
Our field network
Tariq Jahan
Director
Shuaib Mehran
Senior Analyst
Nazia Asmat Qani
Senior Analyst
Mohammad Fahim Hotak
Programs & Capacity Lead
Mohammad Ali Siyadat
Research Lead
Latifa Ahmadi
MEL Lead