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What We Do

OSYAN delivers programmes and initiatives that promote human rights, education, community participation, and equality. Our activities combine research, advocacy, public education, and partnerships to create lasting impact.

Afghan schoolgirls and education community
01

Human Rights Advocacy

We promote the protection and advancement of internationally recognised human rights through advocacy, public education, research, and policy engagement.

Our work seeks to strengthen understanding of human rights principles, encourage accountability, and support the development of laws and policies that respect the dignity and rights of all people.

Activities include:

  • Human rights education
  • Public awareness campaigns
  • Policy engagement
  • Research and publications
  • Conferences and seminars
  • Community outreach
  • Collaboration with civil society
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Women participating in a public education event
02

Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

OSYAN supports initiatives that promote the rights, participation, and empowerment of women and girls.

We work to raise awareness of barriers that prevent women from participating equally in society and contribute to efforts that advance equality, education, leadership, and access to opportunities.

Our work includes advocacy on discrimination, gender-based violence, and the protection of women's rights, particularly in contexts where women experience systemic exclusion.

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Afghan girls attending school
03

Education

Education is central to our mission.

We believe that access to quality education creates opportunities, strengthens communities, and contributes to more inclusive societies.

Our educational work includes:

  • workshops and seminars;
  • scholarships and educational support, where resources permit;
  • public lectures;
  • educational publications;
  • community learning initiatives; and
  • collaboration with schools, universities, and educational institutions.
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Girls learning in a classroom
04

Community Integration

OSYAN supports the successful integration of Afghan communities in Ireland by promoting participation, inclusion, and understanding.

We organise community information sessions, awareness programmes, and educational activities that help individuals understand their rights, access services, and engage confidently in Irish society.

We also encourage dialogue between communities and public institutions to strengthen social cohesion and mutual understanding.

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Participation
Inclusion
Understanding
05

Research and Policy

Research underpins all of our work.

We undertake independent research and prepare reports, briefing papers, policy submissions, and educational resources that contribute to informed public discussion and evidence-based policymaking.

Our research addresses issues including:

  • human rights;
  • equality;
  • education;
  • migration and integration;
  • discrimination;
  • women's rights; and
  • international legal developments.
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Evidence
Policy
Practice
06

International Advocacy

Many human rights challenges require international cooperation.

OSYAN engages with international organisations, academic institutions, human rights mechanisms, and civil society networks to promote dialogue, accountability, and legal and policy reforms.

Where appropriate, we contribute research, policy recommendations, and submissions to international human rights processes and support initiatives that strengthen the protection of fundamental rights.

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Dialogue
Accountability
Reform

Community Education

We believe informed communities are stronger communities.

Through workshops, public events, educational campaigns, and accessible resources, we help individuals better understand their rights and responsibilities while encouraging active participation in civic life.

Partnerships

Collaboration is fundamental to achieving meaningful and sustainable impact.

We work alongside:

  • community organisations;
  • universities;
  • researchers;
  • public bodies;
  • charities;
  • volunteers;
  • professional networks; and
  • international partners.

Together, we seek to develop practical solutions that promote equality, education, and respect for human rights.

Our Approach

Across every programme, OSYAN is guided by four interconnected pillars:

EducateProviding knowledge and building capacity.
ResearchGenerating credible evidence to inform policy and practice.
AdvocatePromoting rights, equality, and accountability.
EmpowerSupporting individuals and communities to participate confidently in society.