Afghanistan Public Policy Research Organization

Transcription

1 Afghanistan Public Policy Research Organization NAP 1325 Monitor Monitoring Cycle 4: January April 2018 July 2018 Project Report

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3 Acknowledgments This monitoring report is based on the fourth round of data collection, as part of the project NAP 1325 Monitor, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). APPRO wishes to express its sincere gratitude to all those who agreed to be engaged in data collection for this report. About NAP 1325 Monitor The specific objectives of the NAP 1325 Monitor are to: 1. Establish baseline conditions based on the available information as of January 1, 2017 and report negative and positive changes for action and learning on a quarterly basis. Monitoring is carried out using a standardized methodology based on a comprehensive set of indicators developed from the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325), subsequent related resolutions, and Afghanistan s NAP Generate practical policy recommendations for interventions by civil society and the government on meeting WPS objectives as specified in UNSCR 1325 and Afghanistan s NAP Disseminate information from the monitoring and related thematic research to national and international audiences with a focus on the WPS agenda in Afghanistan. About APPRO Afghanistan Public Policy Research Organization (APPRO) is an independent social research organization with a mandate to promote social and policy learning to benefit development and reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan and other less developed countries through conducting applied research and monitoring, evaluations, training and mentoring. APPRO is registered with the Ministry of Economy (MoEc) in Afghanistan as a non-profit, non-government organization, headquartered in Kabul, Afghanistan with offices in Mazar-e Sharif (north), Herat (west), Kandahar (south), Jalalabad (east), and Bamyan (center). APPRO is the founding member of APPRO-Europe, registered in Belgium. APPRO also acts as the Secretariat for the National Advocacy Committee for Public Policy (NAC-PP). For more information on APPRO, see: For more information on APPRO-Europe, see: For more information on NAC-PP, see: Contact: mail@appro.org.af About the Researchers Rahmatullah Aloko, Ahmad Shaheer Anil, Fareba Ayob, Enayatullah Bashardost, Abdulsamad Ebrahimi, Marzia Rahmani Ehsanullah Khalili, Fatima Khavari, Razia Haidari, Ahmadullah Hamta, Saeed Parto, Bashir Ahmad Quraishi, M. Anwar Rahimi, Hasan Raha, M.Ehsan Saadat, Zarghona Saify, Lema Sakhizai. Sarah Mcarthur authored this report. APPRO takes full responsibility for all omissions and errors Afghanistan Public Policy Research Organization. Some rights reserved. This publication may be stored in a retrieval system or transmitted only for non-commercial purposes and with written credit to APPRO and links to APPRO s website at Any other use of this publication requires prior written permission, which may be obtained by writing to: mail@appro.org.af III

4 List of Abbreviation AIHRC Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission NAP National Action Plan ANDMA Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority NDS National Directorate of Security ANP Afghan National Police NGO Non-government Organization APPRO Afghanistan Public Policy Research Organization NPO Norwegian Project Office AWN Afghan Women s Network NRC Norwegian Refugee Council CSO Civil Society Organization PEW Office of Peace and Equality for Women DoAIL Directorate of Agriculture Irrigations and Livestock UNSCR United Nations Security Council Resolution DoE Directorate of Education WAW Women for Afghan Women DoHRA Directorate of Hajj and Religious Affairs WPS Women, Peace and Security DoLSA Directorate of Labor and Social Affairs DoPH Directorate of Public Health DoRR Directorate of Refugee and Repatriations DoWA Directorate of Women Affairs DRC Danish Refugee Council DRRD Department of Rural Rehabilitation and Development ECW Empowerment Center for Women EPD Equality for Peace and Democracy EVAW Elimination of Violence Against Women FRU Family Response Unit HPC High Peace Council HRC Human Rights Commission IARCSC Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Services Commission IDP Internally Displaced Persons IEC Independent Election Commission MoEc Ministry of Economy MoFA Ministry of Foreign Affairs MoI Ministry of Interior MoJ Ministry of Justice MoWA Ministry of Women Affairs NAC-PP National Advocacy Committee for Public Policy IV

5 Table of Contents Acknowledgments... III Introduction...1 Objectives, Methodology and Scope...2 Findings...3 Awareness of NAP Security Situation...4 Participation...7 Achievements Setbacks Protection Achievements Setbacks Prevention Achievements Setbacks Relief and Recovery Achievements Setbacks Conclusion Recommendations Appendix 1: Indicators Appendix 2: References and Coding V

6 Introduction In October 2000, after decades of advocacy, the United Nations Security Council adopted resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) recognizing the disproportionate impact that war and conflicts have on women and children. While having become victims of armed conflict, women s role in the process of preventing and managing conflicts has been minimal and overlooked by relevant authorities. UNSCR 1325 was intended to respond to the changing nature of warfare, in which civilians are increasingly targeted, and to women s general exclusion from participation in peace and security processes. It also emphasizes that peace and security efforts are likely to be more sustainable when women are equal partners in the prevention of violent conflict and the delivery of relief and recovery efforts. 1 National Action Plans (NAP) have been developed by various national governments to localize the implementation of UNSCR Afghanistan committed to UNSCR 1325 in June 2015 with the launching its National Action Plan (NAP 1325). 2 Afghanistan s NAP 1325 was developed to respond to urgent need for the Afghan society to adopt an inclusive and participatory approach in the prevention policy processes and conflict management and create a new space for effective participation of women in peace processes, security and development. In statements on peace making with the Taliban in early 2018, President Ashraf Ghani has raised the importance of assurances of women s involvement in the peace process. 3 Afghan women, however, remain skeptical, with only half believing that peace is possible without the fear of losing recent progress in women s rights and expanded opportunities. 4 Regardless of the many challenges confronting women and advocates of their equal rights, NAP 1325 represents a new impetus toward ensuring women s participation in peace and security decision-making and greater representation by women in public affairs, elections, development, employment, and access to justice and social services. The unit responsible for developing and monitoring Afghanistan s NAP 1325 is the Steering Committee headed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). NAP 1325 contains an overview of related laws and policies, such as the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW) law, the Family Law, and numerous constitutional provisions. It is organized under the four pillars of Participation, Protection, Prevention and Relief and Recovery. These pillars include 39 indicators and 25 strategic objectives. Since its release in June 2015, there have been two official progress reports by MoFA detailing early accomplishments and anticipated next steps in the implementation process. 5 1 Weingarten, E., & Hilal, L. (2015, March 3). A Step Forward for Afghan Women? Retrieved February 2018, from ForeignPolicy.com: See also: United States Institute of Peace. (n.d.). What is UNSCR 1325? Retrieved February 2018, from usip.org: And: Women's International League of Peace and Freedom. (n.d.). NATIONAL ACTION PLAN: AFGHANISTAN. Retrieved February 2018, from Peacewomen.org: 2 Human Rights Watch. (2016, January 12). Afghanistan: Set Out Concrete Plan to Involve Women. Retrieved February 2018, from hrw.org: 3 Dewan, A. (2018, March 1). Women must be in 'every part' of Taliban peace process, Afghan President says. Retrieved March 2018, from edition.cnn.com: 4 Haidary, M. S. (2018, February 14). Afghan Women Pessimistic on Peace Talks with Taliban. Retrieved March 2018, from asiafoundation.org: 5 Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). (2016). Status Report on the Afghanistan s National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 (Women, Peace and Security). Retrieved March 2018, from mfa.gov.af: 1

7 Objectives, Methodology and Scope The objective for this and future monitoring reports is to evaluate the conditions for women, and achievements/setbacks in the implementation of NAP 1325 across twelve provinces (21 districts). Achievements and setbacks in each province are analyzed under the Participation, Protection, Prevention, and Relief and Recovery Pillars of NAP A baseline assessment was conducted in March 2017, to establish the existing conditions for women s rights in Afghanistan based on the available information and APPRO s extensive research on women s rights throughout Afghanistan. This was followed by two subsequent monitoring reports, Cycle 2 and Cycle 3 for the period of May August 2017 and September December 2017, respectively. Data for this fourth monitoring report were collected between 1 January 2018 and 30 April Data were collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions at rural and urban areas across 12 provinces (33 districts) in the Northern, Eastern, Western, Central, and Southern zones of Afghanistan (Table 1). These 12 provinces were selected to ensure heterogeneity in the social, political, economic, security and development areas. Table 1: Breakdown of Provinces and Districts Province Districts Balkh Mazar-e-Sharif, Khulm, Balkh Bamyan Bamyan Center, Shibar, Yakawlang Daikundi Nili, Shahristan Herat Herat Center, Karukh, Ghoriyan Kabul Kabul Center, Istalif, Khake Jabbar Kandahar Kandahar Center, Arghandab, Daman Khost Matun, Mando Zayi, Nader Shah Kot Kunduz Kunduz Center, Imam Sahib, Aliabad Laghman Mehtarlam, Qarghayi Nangarhar Jalalabad, Kama, Surkhrod Nimruz Zaranj, Chakhansur, Kang Samangan Samangan Center, Aibak, Hazrat Sultan Semi-structured individual interviews, focus group discussions, and a quantitative survey questionnaire were used for the collection of monitoring data. Data collection instruments were designed based on indicators under the Participation, Protection, Prevention, and Relief and Recovery pillars of NAP 1325 (Appendix 1). The monitoring findings are presented with reference to specific data sources, using the coding keys described in Appendix 2. A total of 730 individuals were engaged for this monitoring cycle consisting of 77 females and 181 males who were interviewed as key informants, and 246 females and 226 males who participated in focus group discussions. These individuals were selected from government units that have specific NAP 1325 mandates as well as civil society organizations that undertake activities related to gender equality. This report is organized as follow. The next section reports on qualitative and quantitative findings on the awareness of the National Action Plan 1325, followed by changes in the security situation, across all twelve provinces (33 districts). Findings from the quantitative survey data, and qualitative data collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions are then presented, according to the four pillars of NAP 1325, followed by the conclusion and recommendations. Quantitative data is presented in graphic format and is not statistically significant; they are merely presented as illustrations. 2

8 Findings Awareness of NAP 1325 Compared to the previous monitoring cycle, overall awareness of NAP 1325 has witnessed a sharp increase among male respondents in Khost, Kabul, and Samangan, 52%, 25%, 24%, respectively. Whilst, men remained unaware of the topic in Kandahar, Heart and Bamyan with a decrease of 26%, 24% and 23% (Figure 2). Similarly, female respondents reported an increase in their awareness in Heart, Laghman, and Samangan provinces (17%, 11%, 10%), but a decline in Bamyan, Kunduz, and Daikundi, 22%, 9%, and 8%, respectlively (Figure 1). Figure 1. Awareness of NAP 1325 Women s Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Yes No n=323 Figure 2. Awareness of NAP 1325 Men Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Yes No n=407 3

9 Awareness of the National Action Plan 1325 remains low. However, men s awareness of NAP 1325 has increased across all provinces, possibly due to the fact that men are more likely to be in leadership and policymaking roles than women. Awareness of NAP 1325 appears to be best in Samangan, where knowledge is widespread and it is discussed regularly in relevant government offices. 6 In Kabul and Daikundi, only a slight majority of interviewees and focus group respondents were aware of UNSCR 1325 and the NAP 1325 policy. 7 In Balkh and Khost, most interviewees believed awareness of NAP 1325 and the UNHCR 1325 Resolution has increased since the last cycle, with a majority of respondents now aware of it. 8 Slightly more than 50% of interviewees in Nimruz were still unaware of NAP 1325 and the UNSCR Resolution Similarly, In Herat and Kunduz, majority of interviewees remained unaware of Afghanistan s NAP Those in Herat and Kunduz who knew of the Action Plan emphasized women s access to services, protection from insecurity, and women s share in governmental administrations, but not their involvement in the peace process. 10 In Kandahar, knowledge of NAP 1325 is still lacking in the districts compared to the center of the province. Those who are already aware of the UNSCR Resolution described plans for awareness campaigns to reach the more remote areas. 11 In Laghman only a few respondents knew that NAP 1325 awareness workshops had been conducted in the province, whereas, the rest believed awareness in Laghman had remained the same, or declined as they thought insecurity had brought an end to NAP 1325 awareness programs. 12 In Nangarhar, awareness of NAP 1325 and the corresponding UNSCR Resolution relies solely on non-governmental operations; these have decreased due to security issues in the past 4 months, leading to an overall decrease in awareness in Nangarhar city and districts, including within government. 13 Consistent with previous monitoring, interviewees in Bamyan were divided in their awareness of NAP Security Situation Security is one of the most significant factors helping or hindering implementation of NAP 1325 in all 12 provinces. In general, women are most vulnerable in insecure districts; while their overall condition has improved in stable areas. All female respondents reported an improved security condition in Kandahar and a 40% and 39% increase in Samangan and Khost, respectively. Whereas, majority of female respondents reported a no change or deterioration security situation in Laghman and Nangarhar provinces (Figure 3). Likewise, men reported improved security situation in Samangan and Kabul (36%, 25%); however, they reported deterioration or no change in Mazar, Nangarhar, Laghman, Kunduz and Kandahar (Figure 4). 6 KI-M-Sam-GO-1, KI-F-Sam-GO-19, KI-M-Sam-GO-14, FGD-M-Sam-GO-2, KI-M-Sam-PI-2, 7 KI-F-KAB-PI-1, KI-M-KAB-GO-19KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-M-DAI-NG-5, KI-M-DAI-GO-11, KI-M-DAI-NG-2, FGD-M-DAI-GO-1 8 KI-M-Bal-NG-2, KI-F-Bal-NG-6, KI-F-Bal-PI-3, FGD-M-Bal-GO-3, KI-M-KST-GO-1, KI-M-KST-GO-20, KI-M-KST-NG-3 9 KI-F-NIM-NG-3, FGD-F-NIM-GO-3, KI-M-NIM-NG-1, KI-M-HER-GO-15, KI-F-Kun-GO-10, KI-F-Kun-NG-5 10 KI-F-HER-NG-1, KI-M-HER-GO-16, KI-F-HER-GO-6, KI-M-Her-NG-6, FGD-M-HER-GO-1 11 FGD-F-KAN-GO-1, KI-M-KAN-GO-18, FGD-F-KAN-GO-3, KI-F-KAN-PI-3, KI-M-KAN-PI-2, KI-M-KAN-NG-2 12 KI-M-LAG-G0-1, KI-M-LAG-PI-4, KI-M-LAG-NG-2, FGD-F-LAG-GO-1, KI-M-LAG-GO-15, FGD-F-LAG-GO-2 13 KI-M-NAN-GO-15, KI-F-NAN-NG-3, KI-F-NAN-NG-4, FGD-F-NAN-GO-3, FGD-M-NAN-GO-3 4

10 Figure 3. Changes in the Security Situation Women's Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Better No Changed Deteriorated n=323 Figure 4. Changes in the Security Situation Men's Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Better No Changed Deteriorated n=407 Men and women are largely in agreement on the changes in security situation, with the exception of Kunduz, Laghman and Nangarhar provinces. Results from quantitative and qualitative analysis do not coincide as well as other topics in this report; this reflects the differing opinions and ambiguity surrounding the security situation. In Kabul, security is seen to be stable or improving; attacks continue but with lower severity and frequency. 14 Unlike other provinces, all interviewees in Kandahar agreed that the security situation has improved, however opposition groups remain active in Shah Wali Kot, Ghorak, Khakriz and other remote 14 FGD-F-KAB-GO-3, KI-F-KAB-NG-3, FGD-M-KAB-GO-2, KI-M-KAB-GO-18, KI-F-KAB-GO-11, KI-F-KAB-NG-6 5

11 districts. The reasons given for improvement in these districts are public awareness and cooperation with the security forces. 15 Improvements were also reported in Nimruz and Samangan, for example reduced terrorist attacks, increased public cooperation with government forces, and regained territory in Nimruz. 16 However, local insecurity and crime rates are increasing in both provinces. 17 In Bamyan, most respondents do not perceive an improvement in security; they attribute the decrease in attacks to cold weather, whilst a minority report that the new Director of Security in Yakawlang has had a positive impact. 18 In Balkh, majority of respondents reported a deterioration in the security situation; they describe increased robbery and deaths, political disagreement and inability of security forces, similarly, respondents in Nangarhar report targeted killings, terrorist attacks and open fighting between US and ISIS forces leading to increased numbers of IDPs. 19 All these happen despite increased cooperation with government forces in both provinces. In all other provinces opinions were divided on security; in Daikundi interviewees reported successful conflict resolution in Ashtarli District, but continued conflict between the Taliban and Afghan forces in Nawmish, Kijran, and Pato Districts. 20 In Herat, there have been terrorist attacks in the city center, individual killings in Ghorian and increased Taliban activity in Shendand District. 21 On the other hand, several respondents describe an overall decrease in severity and frequency of attacks, progress in peace negotiations, and joint operations military and negotiating successes in Karukh. 22 Security is believed to have improved in Khost city, Nader Shah Kot and Mando zayi districts as no major incidents have occurred in the past 4 months. However, some reported declining security in districts such as Musakhel, Spira, and Gurbaz due to under-provision of the armed forces there. 23 The majority of interviewees in Kunduz believe the security situation has improved due to successful operations by the security forces and opposition fighters moving to Pakistan for winter training, and those who mention declining security situation report an increase in kidnapping and restricted telecommunications. 24 In Laghman, opinions on security in the city and Qarghayi district were completely divided; some believe it has improved due to increased police checkpoints, while others point to the assassination of two female attorneys in Laghman as evidence of decline. The rest claim that it has remained the same, as the public is unwilling to cooperate with corrupt security forces. All interviewees agree that Taliban activity is on the peak in Alinigar, Alishing and Dawlatshah districts FGD-M-KAN-GO-1, KI-M-KAN-PI-2, KI-F-KAN-NG-6, FGD-F- KAN-GO-2, FGD-M-KAN -GO-2, FGD-F-KAN-GO-3 16 KI-M-NIM-GO-1, KI-M-NIM-GO-20, KI-F-NIM-GO-6, FGD-F-NIM-GO-3 17 KI-M-NIM-PI-4, KI-M-NIM-NG-1, KI-M-NIM-GO-19, KI-F-NIM-PI-1, KI-M-NIM-PI-2 18 KI-M-BAM-GO-19, KI-F-BAM-NG-6, FGD-F-BAM-GO-3, KI-F-BAM-PI-3, KI-F-BAM-NG-4 19 KI-M-Bal-GO-8, KI-F-Bal-PI-3, FGD-M-Bal-GO-2, KI-M-NAN-PI-2, KI-M-NAN-GO-17, FGD-F-NAN-GO-1 20 KI-M-DAI-GO-11, KI-M-DAI-GO KI-F-HER-GO-6, KI-M-HER-GO-20, FGD-M-HER-GO-1, FGD-F-HER-GO-1, KI-F-HER-GO-14, KI-M-HER-PI-3 22 KI-M-HER-GO-16, FGD-F-HER-GO-3, KI-F-HER-NG-5, KI-F-HER-GO-19, FGD-F-HER-GO-2 23 KI-M-KST-GO-1, KI-M-KST-GO-20, KI-M-KST-PI-4, FGD-F-KST-GO-3, KI-M-KST-GO KI-M-Kun-GO-1, KI-M-Kun-PI-2, KI-F-Kun-NG-4, KI-F-Kun-PI-3, KI-M-Kun-NG-6, KI-F-Kun-NG-3, FGD-F-Kun-GO-3 25 KI-M-LAG-G0-1, KI-M-LAG-PI-2, FGD-F-LAG-GO-2, KI-F-LAG-NG-3, KI-M-LAG-G0-1 6

12 Participation The Independent Administration Reform and Civil Services Commission (IARCSC) policy, which has been announced but not yet implemented, has slowed women employment to the civil service in Kabul, Daikundi, Herat, Kunduz, Nimruz and Samangan. 26 In Balkh and Nangarhar, the IARCSC policy reform was cited as the reason for increased employment, whereas in Khost and Nimruz this increase was credited to increasing awareness of opportunities and government programs targeted at women. 27 In Bamyan, interviewees believed the IARCSC examination policy would disadvantage women, who are less educated in general. 28 Interviewees in Kabul were aware of the point-based advantage for female applicants, they were also aware that IARCSC s policy includes providing security for female staff. 29 In Kunduz the IARCSC office has increased it s female participation quota from 30 to 32%. 30 The IARCSC in Daikundi has commissioned monitoring of current and potential female employees but this has not yet been implemented. 31 In Kandahar and Laghman IARCSC policy was not mentioned, and although opinions were divided, awareness campaigns, reduced corruption, changing cultural norms and the Promote Project were the main reasons cited for increased employment. The reasons in Samangan included, training through the Directorate of Education (DoE), the Directorate of Public Health (DoPH) and Promote. 32 In Kabul, Balkh, Bamyan, Daikundi, Herat, Khost, and Laghman several respondents saw no practical change in women s positions in civil and government institutions; they continue to be employed in lowlevel positions; in education and health sectors, especially in the districts. 33 In Balkh, Samangan and Kunduz there have been a few improvements; in Balkh this was due to advocacy campaigns by CSOs. 34 Reasons for slow progress on employment and promotions were lack of education (this was explicitly not a problem in Kabul, but is a severe problem in the districts of Kandahar), nepotism, insecurity, workplace harassment, cultural norms, low salaries and a lack of funding for new employees (Tashkeel). 35 Aside from optimism in Khost province, disagreement in Kabul and Laghman, and some small improvements in other provinces, most respondents were pessimistic about the workplace conditions of women in civil and government positions. 36 Signs of progress include improved facilities in the IARCSC in Kabul, and the establishment of Gender Units in the IARCSC in Kabul and the Governor s Office of Herat. Also, some directorates in Laghman provide transport, and in Nimruz female employees can work with a mahram. The majority of interviewees said that new employee appraisal process in Balkh is transparent. 37 There are complaints boxes in Balkh, Nimruz, Samangan, Laghman, Kunduz and Khost, 26 KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-M-DAI-NG5, KI-F-HER-GO-14, KI-M-Kun-PI-2, KI-M-NIM-PI-4, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 27 KI-M-Bal-GO-8, KI-F-Bal-NG-6, KI-F-Bal-GO-19, KI-M-KST-GO-10, KI-M-NAN-GO-1, KI-F-NIM-GO KI-M-BAM-GO-19, KI-M-BAM-GO-20, 29 KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-F-KAB-GO-4, KI-M-KAN-GO-13, KI-M-KAB-GO-12, KI-M-KAB-GO KI-F-Kun-PI-3, KI-M-Kun-GO-20, KI-M-Kun-NG-6, FGD-F-Kun-GO-1, FGD-M-Kun-GO-2, KI-F-Kun-NG-5 31 KI-M-DAI-GO-20, KI-M-DAI-GO-19, KI-F-DAI-GO-4 32 KI-F-KAN-GO-8, KI-F-KAN-NG-1KI-F-KAN-PI-3, KI-F-KAN-NG-5, KI-M-KAN-GO-12, FGD-F-KAN-GO-1, FGD-M-KAN- GO-2, KI-M-LAG-GO-8, KI-F-Sam-GO-4, KI-F-Sam-NG-3 KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-M-BAM-GO-14, KI-F-DAI-GO-4, KI-F-HER-GO-14, KI-M-KST-GO-10, KI-M-LAG-GO-8, KI-M-Sam- 33 GO-7 34 KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-F-Kun-PI-3, KI-M-Sam-GO-7 35 KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-F-Bal-NG-5, KI-F-KI-M-KAN-GO-7, KI-M-LAG-GO-8, KI-M-NAN-GO-7, FGD-M-NIM-GO-1 36 FGD-F-KAB-GO-1, KI-F-KAB-NG-4, KI-M-KAB-GO-5, KI-F-NIM-GO-8, KI-M-KST-GO-10, KI-F-Kun-GO-4, KI-M-NAN- GO-7, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 37 KI-M-KAB-GO-20, KI-M-KAB-GO-19, KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-M-LAG-GO-8, KI-M-Bal-GO-8 7

13 and in the police headquarters and DoPH in Bamyan, however, in Laghman and Nangharhar some interviewees claimed they are not used in practice. 38 In Nangarhar some departments have improved their complaints mechanisms. In Daikundi and Kabul there is nominal support and planning for improved workplace facilities, however there is no evidence of action. 39 Regarding women s participation in the security services, police chiefs have met with local elders and Mullah Imams to discuss women joining the security services in Kabul, and media campaigns have been conducted in Kabul and Kandahar. Scholarships for training female security staff in Turkey are offered in Kabul, Bamyan, Khost, Kunduz and Herat, and incentive pay has been introduced to encourage women to join the security forces in Kabul, Bamyan and Khost. 40 In Daikundi, Nimruz, Samangan and Kunduz the government has worked with other organizations such as the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC), GIZ, the Promote Project, UNDP and EPD to improve representation and conditions in the security agencies and in Khost the Directorate of the Interior has launched a 5-year plan to encourage female participation. 41 Nangarhar and Samangan were the only provinces that reported an increase in female employment in the security services, and even reported women in leadership positions. 42 Opinions were divided in Kabul on changes in work environment and opportunity for promotion; some argued that women are offered bonuses, promotions and services such as healthcare the same as male employees, whilst others said there had been no change and women still lack basic facilities. 43 In Khost and Samangan facilities are good or improving, however opinions were divided on promotion opportunities in Khost, and in both provinces cultural norms continue to be a barrier to female promotion. 44 In Bamyan, Herat, Kandahar and Daikundi there has been no improvement in the workplace conditions or promotion opportunities for women in the security services. Even worse, in Kandahar women in the security forces were subject to threats from armed opposition groups KI-M-Bal-GO-8, KI-F-BAM-GO-6, KI-F-Kun-GO-4, KI-M-LAG-GO-8, KI-M-NAN-GO-7, KI-M-NIM-GO-14, KI-F-Sam- GO-4 KI-M-DAI-NG-5KI-M-DAI-GO-20, KI-M-DAI-GO-19, FGD-F-KAB-GO-1, KI-M-KAB-GO-5, KI-F-HER-GO FGD-M-KAB-GO-3, KI-M-KAN-GO-1, KI-F-BAM-GO-6, KI-M-HER-PI-3, KI-M-KST-GO-8, KI-M-Kun-GO-1 41 KI-M-DAI-NG-5, KI-M-Kun-GO-1, KI-M-NIM-GO-9, KI-M-Sam-GO-1, KI-M-KST-GO-20, KI-M-KST-NG-4 42 KI-M-NAN-GO-7, KI-F-NAN-GO-9, KI-F-NAN-PI-4, KI-M-NAN-GO-19, FGD-M-NAN-GO-3 43 KI-M-KAB-GO-6, KI-F-KAB-GO-1, KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-M-KAB-GO-8 44 KI-M-KST-NG-4, KI-M-KST-GO-17, KI-M-KST-GO-7, FGD-M-KST-GO-2, FGD-F-KST-GO-2, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 45 KI-M-KAN-GO-20, KI-M-KAN-NG-2, KI-F-KAN-NG-6, KI-M-Kun-GO-1, KI-F-BAM-PI-3, KI-M-BAM-GO-19, FGD-F- BAM-GO-3, KI-M-HER-PI-3, KI-M-KAN-GO-5 8

14 Figure 5: Existence of Problems for Women's Participation in Peace Processes - Women's Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% Yes 40% No 30% No Opinion 20% 10% 0% n=323 Figure 6: Existence of Problems for Women's Participation in Peace Processes - Men's Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% Yes 40% No 30% No Opinion 20% 10% 0% n=407 In the quantitative data above, men are significantly less likely to perceive problems for women in influencing the peace process. However, even amongst women the perception of women s involvement in peacebuilding varies across provinces. In Mazar (Balkh), Herat and Samangan men and women agree that there are no barriers to women s involvement in the peace process. In Nangarhar men and women have exactly opposing views. There is significant dissonance between these survey responses and qualitative interview as well as focus group responses. For example, in the provinces where membership of the peace council has increased there are still several respondents who perceive problems for women participating in the peace process. This could represent the symbolic role of women in the peace process, or may reflect a general lack of knowledge amongst those respondents who are not personally involved in the peace process. 9

15 Programs to encourage female participation in the peace process have included endorsement from the new leadership of the High Peace Council (HPC) in Kabul, focusing on awareness campaigns in Bamyan, Nangarhar, Kunduz, Nimruz and Daikundi to emphasize women and men s joint role in all levels of peacebuilding, and selection of active CSO members for recommendation to the Provincial Peace Council in Kunduz, Nimruz and Laghman. 46 Kabul, Nangarhar, Nimruz and Daikundi are the only provinces where women s membership in formal peace committees has increased in the last 4 months. In Balkh, Nangarhar and Kandahar women are only represented at the Provincial Level, not in the districts. In Kandahar and some districts of Daikundi women s participation in informal peace processes is already good or has increased. Whilst, some districts of Bamyan remain highly opposed to women s participation, and in Daikundi, Shahristan district has no formal peace process leading to women exclusion from informal peace committees. 47 Most interviewees in Kabul, Bamyan and Nangarhar believe women s role in peace committees remains symbolic, which leads to women s rights being ignored in peace talks, however, In Daikundi and Laghman very few believe women play a symbolic role. 48 Insecurity in Khost and Nangarhar, and cultural norms in Khost, Nangarhar and Samangan have prevented women s participation in the peace process from improving. 49 Opinion was divided on programs to encourage female participation in elections in Kabul. a significant number of interviewees in Kabul did not know about the awareness campaign the Independent Election Commission has run with media, CSOs and NGOs, including in district councils. There was a similar lack of awareness programs in Kandahar. There have also been awareness programs in Bamyan, Daikundi and Laghman, but in Nangarhar and Khost no evidence of targeted gender policy for the elections. 50 There have been more voting centers established with the aim of including more women voters in Balkh, Kunduz and Bamyan. In Kunduz, these centers have a 50% female voter quota. UNAMA has also assessed possible solutions to women s exclusion from elections in Kunduz. In Bamyan, the IEC has been making preparations such as distributing national ID cards to ensure wide participation in elections. 51 In Daikundi and Kandahar the security services are prepared to maintain the safety of female voters where insecurity would be a barrier to participation. Whereas, in Kunduz and Laghman there is no planning in place to address the security situation. 52 In Samangan, there has been no change to women s involvement in the elections, due to traditional values and distrust of current female leaders KI-F-KAB-GO-3, KI-M-DAI-NG-5, KI-F-KAN-GO-8, KI-F-Kun-GO-4, KI-M-LAG-G0-7, KI-M-NAN-PI-1, KI-M-NIM-PI-4 47 KI-M-DAI-NG-5, KI-F-DAI-GO-4, KI-M-DAI-NG-2, KI-M-DAI-GO-20, KI-M-DAI-GO-5, KI-M-DAI-PI-1, FGD-F-DAI-GO-1, FGD-M-DAI-GO-1, FGD-F-DAI-GO-2, KI-F-KAN-GO-8, KI-M-BAM-GO-19, KI-M-DAI-NG-5, KI-M-DAI-GO-1, 48 KI-M-KAB-GO-20, KI-M-KAB-GO-19, KI-M-BAM-GO-19, KI-M-NAN-PI-1, FGD-F-NIM-GO-3, KI-M-DAI-GO-8, KI-M- LAG-GO-5 49 KI-F-NAN-GO-4, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 50 KI-F-KAB-NG-3, KI-M-KAB-GO-19, KI-M-KAN-PI-2, KI-F-BAM-PI-3, KI-F-DAI-GO-4, KI-M-LAG-PI-2, FGD-M-NAN-GO 51 KI-M-Bal-GO-5, KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-F-BAM-PI-3, KI-F-BAM-GO-4, KI-M-Kun-PI-2 52 KI-F-DAI-GO-4, KI-M-DAI-GO-20, KI-F-DAI-GO-7, FGD-F-DAI-GO-2, FGD-M-DAI-GO-2, KI-M-KAN-PI-2, KI-F-Kun-PI- 3, KI-F-Kun-NG-4, FGD-M-LAG-GO-1, KI-M-Kun-PI-2 53 KI-M-Sam-PI-1, FGD-M-Sam-GO-2, KI-F-Sam-NG-3, KI-M-Sam-GO-15, FGD-F-Sam-GO-2, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 10

16 Achievements Kabul: Female Participation in the High Peace Council (HPC) rose from 9 to 16 members and the Advisory Board for Women was established under the Peace Council. Women are given a point-based advantage in the new IARCSC selection exam. Glass office doors (to prevent harassment), a kindergarten and a female mosque have been installed in the Administrative Reform Commission. Women are being hired by the Independent Election Commission (IEC) in preparation for upcoming elections. Balkh: More employment, and higher positions for women in DoPH, the Directorate of Women s Affairs (DoWA), the Directorate of Labour and Social Affairs (DoLSA), the Municipality, the Directorate of Hajj and Religious Affairs (DoHRA), and the Directorate for the Economy. More voting centers have been established aiming to include women. Increased salaries for women in 3 directorates: DoE, DoWA, DoLSA. Bamyan: DoPH has established a committee to deal with women s workplace complaints in the provincial center, and intends to roll it out to the districts. Women have been recruited in the Human Rights Training Department, Police Headquarters, DoPH and partners of the Department for Rural Rehabilitation and Development (DRRD) in the provincial center. Awareness campaigns and a review of voting facilities have been conducted by Afghan Women s Network (AWN), the office of Peace and Equality for Women (PEW) and district-level bodies in preparation for upcoming elections. These campaigns have been conducted by over 50% female volunteers. Female police employees have been provided training by UNAMA and the Provincial Human Rights Commission. Daikundi: Women have been hired in leadership positions, in the Directorate for Gender, in charge of a female prison, and as Head of the Provincial Council. Provision of separate toilets and sanitary products for female employees in the Province Office and Directorate of Justice. Women have been involved in successful peace negotiations in Ashtarlay district. Herat: A woman has been appointed Deputy Provincial Governor. A Gender Committee was established in the Governor s Office to deal with women s needs and facilities. Kandahar: Women are employed in Provincial Council and DoWA, DoE, the Municipality, the Judiciary System, DoPH, and other governmental directorates. Workplace facilities and salaries have been improved for women in Kandahar city, Daman and Arghandab districts. The Promote Program has led to 300 women being recruited in the DoE. The IEC has launched awareness campaigns to encourage female candidates, and provide information packs to candidates who register themselves. Khost: Two female lawyers were employed in the Prosecution Office. The MoI has improved work conditions for women, including adequate salaries 11

17 and accommodation for mahrams. Kunduz: Women are employed in several civil bodies; the Association of Attorneys, the IEC, DoE, the Judiciary, the Provincial Governor s office, and DoPH. The AIRCSC has increased its commitment from 30% to 32% female employment across the province. A Provincial Youth Committee has been established and trained on gender issues. Women have been hired in leadership positons responsible for Prevention of Violence Against Women, and in the Directorate of Public Health. 150 female police officers have been sent to Turkey to receive training. Error! B ookmark not defined. Women who are active in CSOs have been selected and introduced to the Provincial Peace Committee to devise policy suggestions. Laghman: Women are provided with transport in some directorates. One hundred new jobs have been announced in DoE, most of which will be filled by women. Nangarhar : Females were recruited into DoE, DoLSA and the Municipality. Improvement of complaints mechanism by appointing a responsible employee to process complaints in person. Female doctors are awarded scholarship to pursue their education in India. More than 60 women currently work in the Police Headquarters. Nimruz: 221 civil institution vacancies have been announced and women s applications have been collected in preparation for their entrance exams. Women are beginning to be recruited into ministries other than education, such as the Attorney General s Office. A male employee was fired for harassing a female colleague. Citizen s Charter awareness programs have attracted many female applicants for civil society appointments. A woman has been appointed deputy of the HPC and four women traveled to Kabul to participate in the national peace program. Samangan : Employment has increased in DoE, the Attorney s Office, DRRD, DoLSA and the DoPH; some of these at levels where women had previously not been employed. Recruitment of directors of girls schools is now restricted to female applicants. A Gender Expert position was established at the governor s office and in the police headquarters to represent women s concerns. 40 women have been appraised, promoted and awarded bonuses in the Department of Education. Childcare facilities have been provided for female employees in the police headquarters. 12

18 Setbacks Kabul: There are still no women in government departments in Khak-e-Jabar and Istalif, and there are no women in the security forces in Istalif. Balkh: There has been no improvement in policy or practice concerning women s involvement in the peace process. They are represented at the provincial level only, not at district level. Bamyan: There has been no effort to improve the conditions of women in the workplace. Harassment, lack of consideration for practical needs, discrimination and nepotism continue in the workplace. Cultural opposition to women s access to decision-making roles persists. Harassment, including sexual harassment of female security staff is prevalent. Daikundi: In Shahristan district, no progress has been made in promoting women s role in election process. There are still no female employees in civil service or government in Shahristan District, except for one female policewoman. Women continue to be sexually harassed in the police force. Herat: The number of female directors has decreased from three or four to only one; the Director of Women s Affairs. No targeted programs have been conducted to increase female employment in the civil service. Kandahar: There are no girls schools in Arghandab district, and no high school graduates in Daman district. There are only one or two women involved in formal peace negotiations in Kandahar Province. Khost: Insecurity and cultural norms continue to prevent any progress for women s participation in the peace process. The IEC has not conducted any election-related programs in Khost in the last 4 months. Kunduz: Cultural norms and threats from armed opposition groups continue to prevent women from being recruited to, or promoted in, the security forces. Insecurity is a major barrier to women voting in Kunduz, especially in areas controlled by opposition groups. Discord in the center (most likely the ousting of the governor) has prevented any election policies from being implemented by the IEC in Kunduz. Laghman: Female Attorneys were killed and the safe house was forced to shutdown. Women in security and justice sectors left their jobs in fear of more attacks. 13

19 Nangarhar: Female police officers continue to be sexually and physically harassed. Cultural norms continue to prevent women from influencing the peace process and participating in the upcoming elections. Nimruz: Women still lack sanitation, transport and childcare facilities in their workplace. There are no women employed in the security services in Chakhansur and Kang districts. Samangan: There are no female police officers in Hazrat Sultan district. 14

20 Protection In several provinces, respondents reported no new mechanisms to protect women from violence in different sectors of society; from domestic violence in Kabul, Nimruz, Daikundi or Kandahar; violence in the workplace in Kabul, Nimruz, Bamyan, Daikundi and Balkh; and violence in public places in Nimruz, Daikundi, Bamyan, Kandahar. 54 In public places, there has been progress in Kabul. In Herat and Kandahar there has been some progress in the workplace, specifically of female police in Heart. 55 In Kunduz and Herat, legal centers have recently been provided so women can report violence in the districts rather than only in the center. In Khost, institutions such as MoWA, the Human Rights Commission, and NGOs often liaise with justice institutions on female victims behalf. 56 Awareness programs to protect women against violence have been carried out in Kabul, Bamyan, Daikundi, Balkh, Kandahar, Kunduz, Khost, Laghman, Nangarhar, and Samangan by organizations, such as the DoWA, Ministry of Justice (MoJ), Police Headquarters, HRC, DRC, NRC, Ullamas, local elders and CSOs. This was reported to be successful in increasing reports of harassment in Kabul city, in Bamyan, Daikundi, and Khost. 57 In Balkh, Kunduz, Nangarhar, Samangan districts and Herat, however, reporting has not improved due to barriers such as corruption, social stigma, distance from legal centers and insecurity. 58 In Laghman opinions were divided; some reported increased reports of harassment, while others claimed that the barriers above have not been overcome. 59 In Balkh, Nimruz, and the districts of Bamyan, women continue to rely on informal justice mechanisms, and in remote districts of Kandahar and Nimruz women are not able to report violence against them due to cultural norms. 60 Opinions varied on the level of female representation in judicial institutions in Kabul. In Balkh there is no current change but plans have been made. In Bamyan, Nangarhar Samangan and Kunduz there is no change in women s representation. 61 In Daikundi, there has been a small increase in women s participation in judiciary, with women being hired as employees rather than only apprentices. Likewise, in Herat, several women have been promoted in the Attorney General s office. 62 In Kandahar city, Arghandab and Daman districts access to formal justice continues to be good due to female representation. Whilst in Nimruz, female representation in formal justice institutions remains limited to the center. 63 Respondents claimed that the Law on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the Law on Prevention of Sexual Harassment have been implemented as planned in Balkh and Samangan. 64 In Kabul and Bamyan, it was reported that the Ministry of Justice has made some progress in implementing the law on prohibition of violence against women by distributing the Criminal Code to the law implementation agencies. 65 In Balkh, Laghman and Samangan (especially the center) there has been improvement in the effectiveness of justice systems for victims of violence, including successful 54 KI-F-KAB-NG-4, KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-M-BAM-GO-19, KI-F-DAI-GO-4, KI-M-KAN-GO-10, FGD-M-NIM-GO-3 55 KI-M-HER-GO-7, FGD-M-HER-GO-3, KI-F-HER-GO-6, KI-F-HER-NG-5KI-M-KAN-GO-1, KI-M-KAN-GO KI-M-KST-GO-1, KI-M-KST-GO-20, KI-M-KST-NG-3, FGD-F-KST-GO-3, FGD-M-KST-GO-3 57 KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-M-KAB-GO-5, KI-F-KAB-GO-3, KI-F-BAM-NG-6, KI-M-KST-GO-1, KI-M-Sam-GO-5 58 FGD-M-Bal-GO-1, KI-F-Kun-GO-4, KI-M-NAN-GO-13, KI-M-Sam-PI-4 59 KI-M-LAG-G0-7, FGD-M-LAG-GO-1 60 FGD-M-Bal-GO-1, KI-M-BAM-GO-7, FGD-M-KAN-GO-3, KI-M-KAN-GO-16, KI-M-NIM-GO-7 61 KI-F-KAB-GO-4, KI-M-KAB-GO-15, KI-F-BAM-PI-3, KI-M-BAM-GO-5, FGD-M-NAN-GO-3, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 62 KI-M-DAI-GO-1, KI-M-Her-NG-6, KI-F-HER-GO-9, KI-M-HER-PI-3 63 KI-M-KAB-GO-13, FGD-M-NIM-GO-3, KI-M-NIM-GO KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-F-Bal-GO-19, FGD-M-Bal-GO-3, KI-M-Sam-PI-4, KI-F-Sam-GO-19, FGD-F-Sam-GO-2 65 KI-F-KAB-PI-1, KI-F-KAB-NG-2, KI-F-BAM-NG-6 15

21 prosecutions. 66 In Kandahar and Nangarhar the process is reportedly slow and corrupt, and in Khost there is impunity for the rich. There is no significant evidence of implementation of EVAW law or the Criminal Code in Nimruz, however some argued that new, younger employees had improved the cooperation between DoWA and the judiciary. 67 In Balkh respondents believed EVAW law has been implemented correctly, however it is not being monitored. 68 In Samangan, Daikundi, and Khost, Women s access to effective justice is improved as monitoring has been conducted by various institutions such as DoWA, UNAMA, the Human Rights Commission, the Commission for the Elimination of Violence, and Directorate of Hajj and Religious Affairs. 69 In Herat and Kunduz, there have been several training, advocacy and awareness programs on women s rights to encourage implementation of new laws and structures to protect women; these have been conducted by governmental and non-governmental organizations. 70 In Kabul, the conditions of women in prisons were reported to be relatively good, and some interviewees in Kabul, Khost and Herat reported small improvements. Whereas, in Balkh, Bamyan, and Kandahar, most interviewees agreed that conditions of women s prisons have remained poor. 71 In Daikundi, opinions on women s conditions in prisons were divided; some claimed there had been no change, while some government officials said advocacy for women s rights had been effective and vocational training had been provided to women. 72 In Kunduz, Nimruz and Laghman there has been no change. 73 In Samangan, no progress has been made on the plans for a new female prison. 74 Figure 7: Treatment of Women by the ANP - Women's Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Improved No Changed Deteriorated No Opinion n= KI-M-KAB-GO-18, FGD-M-KAB-GO-3, KI-F-KAB-NG-2, KI-M-BAM-GO-19, KI-M-Sam-GO-5, KI-F-KAB-PI-1 67 KI-M-NIM-PI-4, KI-M-NIM-GO-9, KI-M-NIM-GO-7, KI-M-NIM-GO-10, KI-M-NIM-GO-17, KI-M-NIM-GO FGD-M-Bal-GO-1, KI-F-Bal-GO-4 69 KI-F-DAI-GO-4, KI-M-DAI-GO-19, FGD-F-DAI-GO-2, KI-M-KST-GO-1, KI-F-Sam-GO-4 70 KI-F-HER-GO-6, FGD-F-HER-GO-3, FGD-M-HER-GO-3, KI-M-BAM-GO-7, KI-F-HER-NG-5 71 KI-F-KAB-PI-1, KI-F-HER-GO-4, KI-M-KST-GO-1, KI-F-KAB-GO-4, KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-F-Bal-NG-6, KI-M-KAN-GO-5 72 KI-M-DAI-GO-11, KI-M-DAI-NG-5, KI-F-DAI-GO-7, FGD-F-DAI-GO-1, FGD-M-DAI-GO-1 73 KI-F-Kun-GO-6, KI-M-NIM-PI-4 74 KI-F-Sam-GO-4, KI-M-Sam-PI-4, KI-F-Sam-GO-19, FGD-F-Sam-GO-1, FGD-M-Sam-GO-1 16

22 Figure 8: Treatment of Women by the ANP - Men's Views 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Improved No Changed Deteriorated No Opinion n=407 With the exception of Herat and Kabul, survey results show that men and women are largely in agreement about the treatment of women by the security services. The perception is also optimistic across all provinces, with very few reporting a decline in ANP treatment of women. The qualitative data below largely agrees with the survey responses; for example, Herat and Bamyan report no change in treatment of women, and are also the only two provinces where policy has not changed. The graph further emphasizes the lack of visible results from training in Daikundi; this is likely because training in Daikundi was limited to the center. However, quantitative data gives a significantly more optimistic view on the effect of training in Khost and Laghman. Regarding the treatment of women by security forces, opinions in Kabul were divided on whether women s rights and EVAW law training has led to tangible improvements. Similarly, in Kunduz, there were varied opinions on the treatment of women by security forces, and whether they are well-trained or not. 75 In Balkh, Khost, Laghman, Nangarhar, Nimruz, Samangan and Daikundi (center), there has been training for security forces, and in Balkh, Nangarhar Nimruz, Samangan and Kandahar treatment of women by security forces, including the ANP, is good or improving. In Bamyan and Herat, however, there has been no change in policy or practice KI-F-KAB-NG-5, KI-F-KAB-PI-1, KI-M-KAB-GO-19, KI-M-Kun-GO-1, KI-F-Kun-NG-3, KI-M-Kun-GO-18, KI-F-Kun-GO-4 76 KI-F-Bal-GO-4, KI-F-Bal-PI-3, KI-F-Bal-GO-19, KI-F-Bal-NG-4, FGD-F-Bal-GO-2, KI-M-DAI-NG-2, KI-M-KAN-GO-5, KI- M-KAN-PI-2, KI-M-NIM-GO-9, KI-M-Sam-GO-1, KI-F-BAM-NG-6, KI-F-HER-GO-10 17

23 Achievements Kabul: MoI conducted a one-week workshop on protecting women from violence, which was attended by the heads of Family Response Units (FRUs). Security forces have placed more staff close to girls schools to protect female students and teachers. Women prisons have been assigned a dedicated doctor. Police and Security Forces have received training on the treatment of women in the city and districts. With regards to protecting women in public places, the police headquarters has ordered the security forces to pay particular attention to this issue. Balkh: There are more women in legal education, and planned reforms will create 600 new vacancies in the formal justice system. Respondents agreed that the Law on the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW) and the Law on Prevention of Sexual Harassment have been implemented as planned. MoJ and police have conducted awareness programs to inform women of the 119 emergency number. The Advocacy Association has been established, which provides free legal assistance to victims of violence. Training has been provided for security forces on women s rights and the EVAW law. Bamyan: Reporting violent incidences has witnessed an increase in the center of the province. Districts have received awareness programs on women s rights and the emergency 119 number. The monitoring director for education of Saighan district, deputy commander in chief on narcotics, two other employees of National Directorate of Security (NDS) in headquarter have been arrested for assault and sexual harassment. Daikundi: Awareness programs revolving around the Law on Violence Against Women and the Regulations for Prevention of Sexual Harassment have been conducted by DoWA and the Human Rights Commission. The number of reports of violence against women has increased due to greater awareness of women s rights MoWA has supervised the successful processing of cases of violence against women in the Courts. Herat: A woman has been appointed social deputy for Herat, who also leads the commission on eliminations of violence. Women are now able to report divorce and cases of violence in districts, instead of travelling to the center. Women in prison have received ID cards, medical care and other facilities. Kandahar: Programs have been conducted by DRC, NRC and other bodies to inform women 18