I am especially concerned about the 20 per cent increase in civilian casualti...

I am especially concerned about the 20 per cent increase in civilian casualties among women and girls in 2012. UNAMA's monitoring of civilian casualties prompted two statements from the Taliban that perhaps indicate a willingness to engage. I encourage a meaningful dialogue aimed at reducing the intolerable, continuing death toll and at protecting civilians. I welcome the speech President Karzai gave on International Women's Day, especially his focus on raising the awareness of gender issues among men. But I remain deeply disturbed that, despite some improvements in prosecuting cases of violence, there is still a pervasive climate of impunity in Afghanistan when it comes to the abuse of women and girls, who have the inviolable right to live free of fear or attacks. Women and girls are key to a better future for Afghanistan; protecting them is central to peace, prosperity and stability for everyone in the country. That calls for strict application of the Elimination of Violence against Women Law and ensuring that women and girls can participate more actively in public life.