Bamyan Afghan Women’s Social Organization (BAWSO), initially established on February 28, 2013, under the Interim Administration of Afghanistan and the Ministry of Justice, is a grassroots organization dedicated to the promotion of human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development. BAWSO envisions a society where human rights are understood, respected, and actively monitored by the people, governed by the rule of law and democratic principles. The organization focuses on empowering women and youth to achieve social and economic self-sufficiency.
BAWSO’s mission is to advance human rights, promote the well-being of women and youth, and contribute to cultural preservation, education, and economic empowerment in Afghanistan. Through an integrated approach, BAWSO undertakes projects that emphasize skill training for the most vulnerable groups, fostering sustainable development. The organization is committed to raising awareness of human rights in alignment with Islamic values and works to mobilize local resources while attracting international support.
Operating primarily in Bamyan Province, BAWSO serves a range of target groups, including youth, women, children, returning refugees, displaced families, and victims of human rights abuses. The organization also focuses on capacity building for public service providers, community workers, and development practitioners to strengthen their ability to contribute to social progress.
BAWSO is governed by a General Assembly, comprising both volunteers and paid members, which oversees the organization’s policies and strategic direction. The Advisory Board, consisting of intellectuals, development experts, and community leaders, provides guidance on long-term strategies, while the Executive Committee, led by the Executive Director, manages daily operations and program implementation. Through this robust structure, BAWSO ensures that its initiatives are aligned with its mission and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.