The Afghan Independent Bar Association (AIBA) was officially established under the Advocates’ Law, passed by the Afghanistan Parliament in November 2007. Unlike other independent bar associations, the AIBA’s Constitution explicitly ensures the presence of women in leadership and decision-making roles, making it a pioneering institution in the region.
The AIBA is dedicated to promoting and protecting the rule of law, social justice, and adherence to Islamic principles in Afghanistan. It firmly upholds the right of citizens to access competent legal representation provided by defense attorneys who practice independently, ethically, and without discrimination or interference.
Since its inception in 2008, the AIBA has focused on expanding its membership of registered defense lawyers, enabling more Afghans to exercise their legal rights. It also offers legal assistance, including pro bono services, to women, children, and men in need.
By 2021, the AIBA had grown to approximately 6,000 registered members, with women making up 25 percent of its total membership. It anticipated further growth to over 6,500 members, driven by a rising demand for quality legal education. To meet this demand, the AIBA has provided its members with training programs aimed at enhancing their skills, efficiency, and ethical conduct. Additionally, the organization has worked to educate the public about their basic legal rights and the formal judicial process while offering legal aid to vulnerable groups.
The AIBA has played a crucial role in advancing justice, supporting the rule of law, and safeguarding citizens' rights. Its contributions extended to promoting human rights and international legal standards through active participation in legislative reforms, including the development of Afghanistan’s new Penal Code.
As a result, over 6,000 AIBA members, many of them women, faced an uncertain future with their activities banned by the Taliban. More than 25 percent of the AIBA’s female members are now confined to their homes, unable to practice law or participate in legal activities.
Despite these challenges, the AIBA’s leadership and members have committed to continuing their mission. In response to the Taliban's takeover, they have established an Afghanistan Independent Bar Association in exile. This initiative has received strong support from the International Bar Association (IBA) and the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe.
The exiled AIBA aims to preserve the identity of the association, uphold the work of Afghanistan lawyers, and safeguard the achievements of the past two decades. With the backing of international partners, it continues to provide critical services, particularly for women and at-risk lawyers, ensuring their voices and expertise remain part of the global legal community.
