The branch had a very good meeting on Tues 11th to celebrate International Women's Day when Dr Nooralhaq Nasimi and one of his daughters, Rabia Nasimi, gave a talk about the role of women in the future Afghanistan.
Several new faces present - both members and non-members! It was wonderful to hear first hand accounts of what is going on in Afghanistan, especially from the younger generation; and while one does one's best to be optimistic, there is a worry in Afghanistan that with the departure of coalition troops from Afghanistan things may revert .... but new elections are pending, and there are other candidates standing for the presidency, some of whom are more liberal so there is hope for change in the right direction. (Sending information about a celebration of Afghanistan's New Year separately)
Our next local meeting is on Sunday 23rd March 2.00 pm on Blackheath. "Fly Kites, Not Drones!" (jointly with WILPF) Blackheath is a well-known location for kite-fliers, and we are carrying out a leafleting exercise that afternoon to publicise the MEDAC campaign against drone warfare, which kills many innocent people and creates bitter enemies. Leaflets will be available – and do bring your own kite, if you have one! [Go where the kites are!]