FAIZABAD - Promoting good governance in northeastern Badakhshan province was the focus of a meeting at which participants agreed to establish a committee to further strengthen civil society-provincial council coordination.

The second in a series being held in the northeastern provinces, the UNAMA-supported event brought together 35 women and men representing civil society, the provincial council, government and political parties. Similar meetings are planned for Takhar and Baghlan provinces over the next few weeks.

Abdullah Naji Nazari, a member of Badakhshan provincial council, said that civil society-provincial council cooperation improves transparency and makes local government more accountable.

“I hope by the establishment of the joint committee that we can work more to harmonize our activities, advocate for people’s rights and more accurately monitor government performance,” said Mr. Nazari.

Saifuddin Sayes, head of the Badakhshan Civil Society Forum, pointed to the similarities between the work of civil society and provincial councils, and the benefit of coordination in promoting good governance.

Mr. Sayes said that the new committee would help to empower local government and provide a bridge to citizen input. A date for the first meeting of the committee is yet to be decided.

The gathering aimed to build constructive and professional linkages between civil society organizations and the provincial council, as well as promote good governance.

Local media partner, Mehr RTV, prepared a 30 minute report for both its TV and radio channels in the province, along with on social media. The initial broadcast will be repeated, reaching an estimated broadcast audience of 300,000 people in Badakhshan with key messages relating to good governance.

Badakhshan province shares an international border with Tajikistan, Pakistan and China. The province is unusual geographically, as a long spur extends to the east as far as China, effectively dividing Tajikistan and Pakistan.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides good offices; promotes coherent development support by the international community; supports the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.