Afghan women live in fear of potential government peace deal

Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in a report that Afghan women are caught between the worsening war and the prospect of a foreboding peace, as the Taliban are sending women warnings that they will be attacked or killed if they work or register in school. The warnings have been issued through terrorising “night letters”.

"Afghan women shouldn't have to give up their rights so the government can cut a deal with the Taliban," said HRW's Tom Malinowski in a statement accompanying the report.

Karzai and his government are attempting to promote negotiations with the Taliban and other insurgent factions nine years after US-led coalition groups overthrew the Taliban. The attempt is aimed at ending what appears to be an obstinate and stubborn war.

Over 100 casualties were recorded in June among NATO and US forces when fighting the Taliban, reaching a record monthly high. Commanders are expecting violence to increase in the coming months as anti-insurgent foreign troops of 150.000 gather strength.

Karzai’s government agree on the need for a settlement with insurgents, as foreign troops are heading for a gradual phased exit as of next year, after facing conflicts without an end in sight. The HRW report said the government has so far ignored the need to protect women’s rights.