I am greatly honored to be able to join the International Gender Champions, which gives me the opportunity to continue my work -- now in my new role as Ambassador of Afghanistan in Vienna – in promoting equal rights for men and women. Previously, I - inter alia - campaigned as a social activist for Afghan refugees and for women’s rights, and I published articles on women’s rights. Also, I have established the Association of Afghan Women Diplomats. I am fully committed to the empowerment of women and to gender equality, and I will undertake to make significant contributions to prevent violence and abuse against women.