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Afghan Women's Fear

The New York Times

To the Editor:

Re ''Food and Hope Are Scarce for Returning Afghans'' (news article, Sept. 17):

Lack of security is yet another major threat to returning Afghans.

Too often, aid can't reach areas of the country where it is most needed because of banditry and the resurgence of warlords, who still control large swaths of the country. Rape and violence are common.

Many women are afraid to take advantage of job and educational opportunities because the threat of violence hangs over them. Even aid workers have been targeted; one was gang raped in northern Afghanistan several months ago.

While it's encouraging that the Pentagon has endorsed a military force beyond Kabul, it is vital that these forces place the protection of the Afghan people and humanitarian aid workers at the forefront of their mission.

The particular risks that Afghan women and girls face must also be an integral part of their work.

MARY DIAZ
Exec. Dir., Women's Commission for Refugee Women and Children
New York, Sept. 17, 2002