Afghanistan 2002
03/18/2002

Many women returning to Afghanistan will be single heads of household, long separated from male family members. These women will face many difficulties. Not only do they lack legitimacy without a male family member, their ability to help themselves is also limited. Traditionally, women are not supposed to work or go out without a male escort. If they need to go to a clinic, travel or visit relatives, a man should accompany them. Such codes of conduct make it difficult for women to earn a living, get basic necessities, and care for themselves and their children. This traditional interpretation of the role of women is most strictly adhered to in rural areas. As one man from a rural area told RI, "A woman is either at home or in the grave."