The Women and Children Research and Advocacy Network

The Women and Children Research and Advocacy Network – WCRAN is a non-profit organization founded on May 17, 2023, in Canada by passionate individuals dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of women and children. WCRAN conducts research, advocates for policy change, and supports grassroots organizations working on the ground to address critical issues such as gender equality, education, and ending violence against women and children.

Headquartered in Whitby, Ontario, WCRAN strongly focuses on advocating for the rights and well-being of women and children in Afghanistan. The organization takes a comprehensive approach to achieving its goals by collaborating with government agencies, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and community groups to amplify its impact and reach.

WCRAN’s primary goal is to create a world where women and children are valued, protected, and provided with the necessary resources and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives. The organization pursues this through innovative research and advocacy initiatives designed to influence policymakers. Key activities include conducting research and studies on relevant issues, raising public awareness, supporting humanitarian actions, networking, and forming strategic partnerships for mobilization and empowering communities through a gender, cultural, social, and economic lens.

WCRAN’s primary constituencies comprise the affected population in Afghanistan,  especially women and children, and is committed to reaching the most vulnerable and at-risk women and children through direct interventions or partnerships with local and international organizations. With a multi-faceted approach and a strong commitment to its mission, WCRAN stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for those in need.

Vision: A world  free of discrimination, violence, gender inequality and oppression.

Mission: To advocate for the rights of women and children, and empower them through capacity-building, education, and grassroots initiatives.

To create a society where women and children are valued, respected, protected, and have equal access to opportunities and resources in Afghanistan

Core Values:

1. Respect: We respect the dignity, autonomy, and diversity of all individuals, particularly women and children.
2. Justice: We advocate for justice, equality, and fairness for women and children, particularly in situations where they have been marginalized or excluded.
3. Diversity & Inclusivity: We recognize the importance of diversity and inclusivity in our work, and strive to engage with marginalized communities and groups.
4. Partnership & Collaboration: We believe in building strong partnerships & collaboration with individuals, organizations, and institutions to advance our mission.
5. Evidence-based: We rely on rigorous research and evidence-based approaches to inform our advocacy and programming.
6. Accountability & Transparency: We are accountable to our stakeholders, alliance and beneficiaries.