Memo to the Prime Minister on the creation of a European Fund for Afghan Women.

Honorable Prime Minister,

Dear Minister,

At the beginning of November, I visited Afghanistan as the head of the first six-member delegation from the European Parliament, in an effort to ensure that the reconstruction of the country would include specific measures to improve the status of women. The situation we encountered there was tragic, as the country is not a well-structured state with a strong central government, and the spirit of the Taliban remains ever-present.

A common observation among all of us was that in order for there to be real progress, both economic and social, in Afghanistan, it is essential to address the culture of violence and religious fanaticism that prevails, which excludes women from most aspects of social life, such as education, work, and even proper healthcare. The women of Afghanistan, 98% of whom are illiterate, are economically dependent on their husbands and, as a rule, give birth without medical assistance (99%). This background provides an ideal foundation for the development of extreme movements, such as the Taliban, who cannot find strong opposition to their plans when a large part of the population is oppressed and underrepresented in decision-making centers. The outcome can only be the perpetuation of Afghanistan’s marginalization and the problems arising from its failure to integrate smoothly into the international system.

I believe that our country can make a decisive contribution to achieving progress with the opportunity of its Presidency in the European Union. I am convinced that the creation of a European Fund for the women of Afghanistan could provide a push in this direction. This Fund would finance the creation of infrastructures in the country, aiming at better integrating women into society, thereby improving their lives and, by extension, the lives of their families.

Our country has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to international stability and peace. Through initiatives such as the Greek Plan for the Economic Reconstruction of the Balkans (ESOAB), we support the view that peace cannot come on its own, but requires specific political action and a long-term vision. I believe that promoting the creation of the European Fund for the women of Afghanistan by the Greek Presidency (through the adoption of a related decision by the Council to create a special line in the 2004 Budget) could enhance our country’s international image as a stabilizing force in our broader region.

Looking forward to your positive response, I thank you warmly.

With deep respect,

Anna Karamanou