Afghani Women Moving Forward

Louis Quail

Women on The Edge

"I host a talk show about problems Afghan women face—topics that are generally taboo. After all, a woman isn't able to change her hairstyle here without her husband's permission."

- Farzana Samimi, host of the show Banu (Woman)

Louis Quail

Women on The Edge

"If you're an entrepreneur like me, having money is dangerous. Kidnapping for ransom is a big problem, and the police are paid to look the other way. But I'm proud to be running my own businesses."

- Hassina Syed, owner of a hotel, a travel agency, and other local businesses, photographed with a bodyguard and her daughters Sana, 3, and Hirah, 2

Louis Quail

Women on The Edge

"Despite threats from the Taliban, the television company where I work airs modern dramas about love and relationships—but the scenes can't be too sexy."

- Madoon, a singer and actress at Ariana Television

Louis Quail

Women on The Edge

"I'm a member of Parliament—which is now 25 percent female. But there are still many problems regarding women's rights here. One man running for Parliament gave away two of his daughters, ages 7 and 13, as part of his campaign."

- Qudriya Yazdan Parast, member of the Afghan Parliament since 2005