The Reconstruction of Afghanistan: A Chance for Rural Afghan Women

In this book, the author argues that in planning and implementing the reconstruction of Afghanistan, schemes to promote employment, as well as health and education, must be structured in ways which take women specifically into account. Given the pervasiveness of the institution of purdah, home-based micro-enterprises could provide appropriate employment opportunities for many women; and health and education programmes should similarly include outreach services which allow women to gather and learnwithin the setting of their homes. In a situation where certain parts of the population may not move about freely, it is important to recognize the need for aid programmes to go to the recipients, rather than simply relying on people themselves to come forward for assistance. The research report concludes with a series of detailed recommendations for rebuilding rural Afghanistan in ways which should permit the entire population to benefit.

Contents: Introduction - The Refugee Setting in Pakistan - The Situation in the Camp - Women and their Households - Afghanistan, Pakistan - Conclusion and Recommendations