Farishte Jalalzai

Purple Ink: For Many Women, A Sign Of Responsible Citizenship

Afghan women send a message to the Taliban with high voter turnout despite threats of violence.

Purple Ink: For Many Women, A Sign Of Responsible Citizenship

The Actress Who Took On The Mufti

Pakistani reality TV star Veena Malik is used to improvising on stage. But even she was unprepared for the surprise guest who joined her on television earlier this year: a religious cleric eager to criticize her career. The debate that followed made Pakistani television history.

Kids With Bombs: In Afghanistan And Pakistan, A Child With A Dream Can Be Deadly

There has been a spate of child suicide bombings in Afghanistan and Pakistan in recent weeks, perhaps due in part to the Taliban's latest push for fresh revenge attacks after the killing of Osama bin Laden by U.S. forces earlier this month. Afghan officials have accused the Taliban of training children for the attacks, although under closer inspection, the reasons why children become suicide bombers are more complex.

Outrage Over A NATO Dismissal Of Kabul Children's Fears

Critics in Kabul say that by suggesting children are as safe in the Afghan capital as in New York or London, NATO's representative has proven he has no concept of the daily fears and struggles of ordinary Afghans.

Different Slogans, Similar Problems For Afghanistan's Women Candidates

While the record participation of women candidates in Afghanistan's upcoming parliamentary elections showcase the growing participation of women in the political process, the road to office is still strewn with obstacles.

Afghans On Iran's Death Row Describe Their Plight

Six Afghans apparently awaiting execution in an Iranian prison paint a grim picture of a bloodthirsty criminal justice system.