currently serves as the Afghan ambassador to Austria, the United Nations office, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Vienna. She formerly held the position of ambassador to the Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland). She has been instrumental in strengthening international ties and fostering support for Afghanistan. Her efforts in representing Afghan interests abroad have been crucial in building alliances and garnering support for the Vienna Process. Her diplomatic skills, combined with her deep commitment to her country’s future, make her an essential part of our team. She drives efforts to create an inclusive dialogue and a cooperative spirit among Afghan leaders, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and valued in the Vienna Process.

is the former Deputy Foreign Minister of Afghanistan and plays a pivotal role in the Vienna Process. His extensive experience in diplomacy and international relations is crucial in bridging gaps and fostering collaboration among various Afghan stakeholders. As a key figure, he works alongside the team to ensure the successful implementation of the Vienna Process initiatives on the ground. His leadership and vision are vital in driving forward the dialogue and efforts necessary to establish a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan.

is a seasoned crisis manager in the wars of former Yugoslavia and an experienced diplomat with extensive know-how in international relations. As a former EU Special Envoy and chief negotiator in the Rambouillet/Paris peace talks on Kosovo and the UN High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, he currently serves as the President of the Austrian Institute of International Affairs. As coordinating facilitator, Mr. Petritsch brings valuable expertise in diplomacy and conflict management to the Vienna Process team, contributing to the effectiveness of our initiatives.

is a retired university professor and renowned author with a long history of involvement in Afghanistan. As the chairman of the RD Foundation Vienna for Research, Development, and Human Rights, he provides financial support and strategic direction to the organization’s initiatives. Among his many publications are two books about Afghanistan, "Afghanistan, fragmentarisch" (2003) and "Noch Jahre der Unruhe" (2015), the latter having been translated into Farsi in 2023.

plays a pivotal role as the project and Main Office coordinator of the Austrian Relief Committee for Afghanistan (ARC). With a deep understanding of the region’s dynamics and challenges, Mr. Safa oversees the implementation of projects and ensures their alignment with the organization’s goals. He also acts as a vital link between Afghanistan and Austria, coordinating efforts on the ground and facilitating effective communication and collaboration between the two countries. Mr. Safa was an Austrian diplomat for twenty-four years. He is the main coordinator of the Vienna Process for a Democratic Afghanistan and the Transferproject-Vienna-Kabul Association.

is one of the co-founders of the Vienna Process, assisting in a variety of areas relevant for the successful implementation of the Vienna Process. As a young student, she fled Afghanistan after the Russian invasion to Pakistan. Mrs. Zahma Safa worked as a volunteer for the Austrian Relief Committee for Afghan refugees in Peshawar. Endowed with a scholarship, she studied in Vienna and worked at the University Clinic. Since 2020, she has been a member of the Transferproject-Vienna-Kabul.

is a former BBC correspondent and a long-term resident and expert on Afghanistan. Mr. Loyn has reported extensively from the region. With deep insights into the Afghan socio-political landscape, his knowledge and experience significantly support the Vienna Process in maintaining its Afghan-owned ethos. He brings a nuanced understanding of Afghan history and current affairs, helping to bridge cultural and political gaps and facilitate effective dialogue among stakeholders. His book, "The Long War: The Inside Story of America and Afghanistan Since 9/11," provides a comprehensive analysis of the conflict and its broader implications.

serves as the media relations advisor and executive assistant to Mr. Petritsch and the Vienna Process. Mr. Kirsch services our website www.viennaprocess.org. With expertise in international affairs and security, focusing on crisis regions including the SWANA region, his proficiency in public relations and communications helps amplify the organization’s message and coordinates media engagements to raise awareness about our work.