Dear friends,

The crisis in Afghanistan has thrown a glaring spotlight on women, peace, and security. Women continue to remain sidelined in peace negotiations, and women’s issues are often ignored. This year, there were no Afghan women speakers at the Security Council meeting commemorating the anniversary of Resolution 1325, which addresses the critical role of women and the need to include their voices.

Afghan women should be at the forefront of these discussions, and their absence will hinder the ability of the international community to address the crisis in Afghanistan effectively. Last month we convened the Women’s Forum on Afghanistan, together with Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute and Women for Afghan Women, to help raise the voices of Afghan women. This forum will be led by Afghan women, and we will support their efforts to be heard.

Here is a recap of the Women's Forum on Afghanistan, in which you can see the power of Afghan women leaders and the strength of women's global solidarity. Please listen to their voices and share this video with your family, friends, and colleagues - with as many people as possible.