About Us

CIR is a global leader in open-source investigations, exposing and disrupting malign actors wherever they operate. Our teams investigate foreign influence operations, document harm in conflict environments and expose networks responsible for online manipulation and other harmful activity. At the heart of our approach is a distinctive combination of deep local expertise and cutting-edge investigative methods. By working with regional analysts, civil society partners and technical specialists, we are able to rapidly collect, verify and analyse digital evidence from some of the world’s most challenging environments.

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Our Goal

CIR aims to expose harm globally, online and offline, especially in violent conflicts.

Methodology

CIR’s methodology has been guided by best practices in the open source field.

FAQs

Find quick answers to frequently asked questions regarding our work.

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"Voice Memo" recordings showcase the diverse people and minds at CIR.

Reports

Within

Containing

Afghan Witness Media

31st Mar 25

US-funded local language media at risk of closure

Trump’s funding freeze leaves exiled media scrambling for resources.

Afghan Witness Disinformation

26th Mar 25

Sirajuddin Haqqani resurfaces after 50 days amid claims of resignation

Taliban denies resignation reports as Haqqani reappears in Khost

Afghan Witness Policies and Restrictions

14th Mar 25

Taliban allegedly raid underground beauty parlours

Report of house searches, arrests, and intimidation of beauticians.

Afghan Witness Terrorism

14th Mar 25

Senior pro-Taliban cleric assassinated in Pakistan

ISKP suspected to be behind killing of Jamia Haqqania’s head, Hamid-ul-Haq.

Afghan Witness Human Rights

14th Mar 25

Taliban withdraw from the ICC’s Rome Statute

Analysts say the ICC still holds jurisdiction over past crimes.

Afghan Witness Information environment

14th Mar 25

Taliban-backed Shia conference draws thousands in Kabul

Supporters see it as outreach, while critics call it a propaganda move.

Afghan Witness Women in Activism, Media, and Politics Tech-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence Policies and Restrictions Harassment

7th Mar 25

Finding Alternatives: Entrepreneurship and resilience by Afghan women online

As the Taliban continue to erode women's rights, many Afghan women have turned to Instagram as a lifeline for community, self-expression and business - while navigating increasing restrictions and abuse.