I. SUMMARY
Key recommendations
II. BACKGROUND
Status of Afghan women
Womens political rights
Obstacles to womens political participation after the Taliban (2001-2005)
III. BARRIERS TO WOMENS PARTICIPATION IN THE SEPTEMBER 2005 ELECTIONS
Few women as candidates or political party members
Barriers to election employment and civic education for women
Insecurity and violent attacks
Warlords and commanders as candidates
Campaigning in rural areas
Government protection
IV. CONCLUSION