A SURVEY OF THE AFGHAN PEOPLE
In 2007, the Foundation conducted its third nationwide survey on the knowledge and attitude of Afghans concerning changes and trends in government performance, public policy, politics and political processes, and development. The 2007 survey captures the Afghan public’s perceptions of reconstruction, security, governance, and poppy cultivation -- as well as attitudes toward government and informal institutions, the role of women and Islam in society, and the impact of media. Collectively, the three surveys establish an accurate and long-term barometer of public opinion across Afghanistan to help assess the direction in which the country is moving in the post-Taliban era. The Foundation has also contributed to the development of research capacity in Afghanistan by building a local team with the ability to undertake large, diverse, and sensitive surveys. The 2007 survey was conducted by a team of 500 Afghan women and men from across the country trained as part of the Foundation program.
SUPPORT TO THE CENTER OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT TO THE CENTER OF GOVERNMENT
One of the most critical challenges facing Afghanistan following a quarter century of civil war and repression has been the establishment of a legitimate and credible government. Over the past few years, the Foundation has provided strategic support, technical assistance, and skills for strengthening key government offices in planning, policymaking, implementation, and leadership. This ongoing program provides assistance to the President’s Office of the Chief of Staff, Office of Administrative Affairs & Council of Ministers Secretariat, and Office of the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, as well as the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foundation provides these offices with technical and managerial assistance, streamlining administrative processes, mapping policy formulation, and upgrading physical facilities, including the establishment of a resource center with library and modern information technology facilities.