Afghan Women Speak: Enhancing Security and Human Rights in Afghanistan

David Cortright is the Director of Policy Studies at the Kroc Institute and Chair of the Board of the Fourth Freedom Forum. He is the author of Ending Obama's War (Paradigm) and Towards Nuclear Zero (Routledge). He blogs at davidcortright.net. Since the overthrow of the Taliban by U.S.-led forces in 2001, the promotion of women’s rights in Afghanistan has generated much public debate. Some commentators have suggested that prolonged U.S. and NATO military occupation is needed to protect women’s gains. But what do Afghan women think? David Cortright Co-authored a report of this title based on extensive interviews with Afghan women leaders, including parliamentarians, activists, school principals, health workers, and members of the police force and army. This presentation is part of a series initiated by Women’s Action for New Directions.