In October, the Washington Post reported that the Afghan government and the Taliban had begun secret peace agreement talks. Conditions included that the Taliban renounce violence, surrender their weapons and accept the constitution of Afghanistan.

However, women's rights advocates are worried. In an interview with the Toronto Star, Jennifer Rowell, head of policy and advocacy for Care International in Afghanistan, expressed her concerns that we are entering a very dangerous time for Afghan Women. Said Rowell, "The greatest concern is the policy of reconciliation and reintegration (of militants)...In the reconciliation process, women’s rights are a card on the table...I’m afraid they will be the first thing to be sacrificed in the negotiations.” She said Care has talked to thousands of Afghan women and they are also worried.

Ms. Rowell also said the future of Afghan women's rights will depend upon the response of Western countries to the peace talks. 

Please sign the petition to Afghan President Hamid Karzai telling him that women's rights are not negotiable in discussions with the Taliban.