UK Special Envoy: Afghanistan’s Future Depends on Full Participation of Women
Richard Lindsay, the United Kingdom’s Special Envoy for Afghanistan, emphasized the importance of comprehensive women’s participation in society to ensure the country’s future stability and prosperity during the 2026 Chatham House Award ceremony honoring Afghan women.
He congratulated Afghan women on receiving the award, stating that without their active presence, achieving peace and sustainable development in Afghanistan is impossible. The award was presented to several women’s rights activists in recognition of their resilience against gender-based oppression.
The Chatham House Award, given annually to individuals or organizations contributing significantly to the improvement of international relations, was presented by Theresa May, former UK Prime Minister and current Chair of Chatham House.
The event took place amid ongoing severe restrictions and bans imposed by the Taliban administration on women’s rights and participation in social and political activities in Afghanistan, a matter that has sparked widespread international concern and criticism.
