About Us
Who We Are!
The Afghanistan Center for the Study of Terrorism and Democracy (ACSTD) is an independent think-and-do tank based in the UK, dedicated to studying and analyzing complex challenges such as terrorism and extremism and pressing issues such as democracy and justice in Afghanistan and the broader region. We offer evidence-based insights and practical solutions through rigorous research, policy development and advice, capacity building, and strategic engagement. Our work supports more effective governance and strategies to combat terrorism, extremism, radicalism, violence, and insecurity, while also promoting democratization, political activism, elections, political processes, justice, and democratic resilience, particularly in Afghanistan and the region. ACSTD contributes to both academic and public debates on these issues through publications, events, and collaborative initiatives.
Working alongside local and international partners—including government bodies, civil society organizations, and academic institutions—ACSTD operates with a primary focus on Afghanistan while addressing regional dynamics in South Asia. We pursue our mission through a threefold approach: rigorous research and policy advice, capacity development, and strategic dialogue.
Established with a mission to empower stakeholders and foster long-lasting, positive change, ACSTD upholds values of integrity, inclusivity, independence, and impact, striving to contribute to sustainable peace and democratic progress in Afghanistan.
Mission
We lead critical research, constructive dialogue, and strategic engagement on key issues such as terrorism, and democracy in Afghanistan and the region. We work with academia, policymakers, and civil society to develop evidence-based solutions, empowering local and international actors to drive meaningful and lasting change.
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
Core Staff
Tariq Jahan
Director
Tariq oversees ACSTD’s vision and strategy. A doctoral student at the University of St. Andrews, he researches terrorism, insurgency and extremism.
Shoaib Mehran
Policy & Advocacy Manager
Shuaib connects with stakeholders to turn ACSTD’s research into policy recommendations. Holding an MA in Political Science from the University of Allahabad, he focuses on security and peace studies.
Mohammad Fahim Hotak
Programs & Capacity-Building Manager
Fahim oversees ACSTD’s capacity-building programs. With an MA from the University of York, his research focuses on public policy, post-conflict reconstruction, and development.
Nazia Asmat Qani
Communications & Outreach Manager
Nazia leads ACSTD’s public engagement and outreach. A doctoral student at the University of York, her research focuses on justice, conflict, and violence.
Mohammad Ali Siyadat
Research & Planning Manager
Ali Siyadat, PhD candidate at the University of St Andrews, explores AI’s impact on leadership, trust, and ethics, with experience in NGOs and research in the UK and Afghanistan.
Tariq Jahan
Director
Tariq oversees ACSTD’s vision and strategy. A doctoral student at the University of St. Andrews, he researches counterterrorism and counterinsurgency.
Shoaib Mehran
Policy & Advocacy Manager
Shuaib connects with stakeholders to turn ACSTD’s research into policy recommendations. Holding an MA in Political Science from the University of Allahabad, he focuses on security and peace studies.
Mohammad Fahim Hotak
Programs & Capacity-Building Manager
Fahim oversees ACSTD’s capacity-building programs. With an MA from the University of York, his research focuses on public policy, post-conflict reconstruction, and development.
Nazia Asmat Qani
Communications & Outreach Manager
Nazia leads ACSTD’s public engagement and outreach. A doctoral student at the University of York, her research focuses on justice, conflict, and violence.
Mohammad Ali Siyadat
Research & Planning Manager
Ali Siyadat, PhD candidate at the University of St Andrews, explores AI’s impact on leadership, trust, and ethics, with experience in NGOs and research in the UK and Afghanistan.