Eurasia

Afghanistan
Several years have passed since the 2001 US-led war against the Taliban, but Afghanistan remains unstable and is moving unsteadily toward democracy.  Although presidential elections took place in October 2004 and parliamentary elections are planned for fall 2005, broad national commitment to democratic rule is lacking.  Similarly, despite the international community's unprecedented focus on women in Afghanistan—where for the first time women's rights were used as a justification for international intervention—their status remains virtually unchanged, their future uncertain.  Nonetheless, there is hope for both democracy and the status of women in Afghanistan. 

Inclusive Security Recommendations
From Rhetoric to Reality: Afghan Women on the Agenda for Peace

Conflict Background
BBC Country Profile

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Armenia and Azerbaijan
Armenia and Azerbaijan began fighting over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh in 1988; a 1994 cease-fire has not truly resolved this long-standing conflict.  The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region intensified following the breakup of the Soviet Union.  Azerbaijan and neighboring Armenia are still in conflict over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.  Though a cease-fire has prevented the resumption of full-scale war, there has been no real peace. 

Learn more about the Armenian and Azerbaijani members of the Women Waging Peace Network.

Reports
"Women of Nagorno Karabach for Peace and Peaceful Coexistence"
Conference organized by members of the Inclusive Security Women Waging Peace Network, July 2002

Conflict Background
BBC Country Profile (Armenia) 
(Azerbaijan)