Rep. McCollum notes lifting of stoning sentence in Nigeria

Representative Betty McCollum (Democrat of Minnesota) says she will continue her effort to end the practice of stoning, while expressing her approval of a Nigerian court's ruling to overturn the death by stoning sentence of Sufiya Hussaini.    Complete Text

Afghan Schools to Reopen with International Support

Classroom reopening seen as a sign of returning stability

Schools are set to reopen in Afghanistan March 23 as a result of an enormous international logistical effort to provide school supplies, facilities and teacher re-training, bringing an end to a five-year Taliban imposed shutdown. An event considered routine in stable countries, a new school term in Afghanistan is being described as a return to stability, a reassertion of the rights of women and a breath of hope in a country that has known too much desperation, violence and turmoil.    Complete Text

Afghan Women to Regain Vibrant Role in Society

State Department fact sheet on Afghan women, March 19, 2002

A fact sheet released March 19 by the Department of State's Senior Coordinator for International Women's Issues details the significant contributions of Afghan women in the health and education sectors prior to 1979, in stark contrast to their victimization under the Taliban regime.    Complete Text