I’m sure many of you, like me, have been watching the unfolding situation in Afghanistan with grave concerns about the future for Afghan women and girls. It is essential that their hard-won human rights are protected.

This year I am once again donating my birthday to raise funds for UN Women Australia, to help our sisters in Afghanistan. My 40^th birthday wish is to raise $40,000. By making a donation you will be helping to support their safety and their full and free participation in the social, economic, and political life of the country.

UN Women has been present in Afghanistan for over 10 years and will remain committed to stand by them and deliver at this critical time.

Afghan women and girls played a pivotal role throughout the history of their country. In 1919, Afghan women became eligible to vote before many other nations. The first girls’ school was opened in 1921 and the 1964 constitution ushered in equality for all.

As the situation changes daily, these enormous gains may be eroded. 2020 was the deadliest year on record for Afghan women, with 2021 set to eclipse this. Women, boys and girls made up close to half of all civilian casualties in the first half of 2021, comprising 46% of all civilian casualties. 80% of nearly a quarter of a million Afghans forced to flee since the end of May are women and children.

Women’s rights in Afghanistan must have only one direction and that is forward. Thank you in advance for your support – together we can make a difference.