Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 10/2014

Engaging Afghan Religious Leaders for Women's Rights

Palwasha L. Kakar

June 2014

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

Women’s rights programs in Afghanistan need to work with religious leaders who have moral authority among large segments of the Afghan public. Engaging those traditional leaders who have a track record of supporting women’s rights begins with respecting their opinions and showing the patience to build trust through dialogue. It also requires supporting processes of change that are identified locally and ensuring that local partners take the lead role in the delivery of support as much as possible.