Daughters of Afghanistan

Since the fall of the Taliban, Islamic fundamentalism has "reasserted itself in a sinister way," according to Canadian journalist Sally Armstrong as she documents precisely how little has changed for women in that ravaged country in filmmaker Robin Benger's powerful, angry Daughters of Afghanistan. Through the eyes of four Afghani women--including Dr. Sima Simar, who was, for a short time, a deputy prime minister in the new government, until hardline Islamic fascists demanded her removal (some going so far as to call for her death)--viewers learn that women remain virtual sex slaves to the husbands they are often forced to marry, are told that women remain afraid to walk the streets and are tormented by angry men even when they are wearing the burqa (i.e., veil), and are reminded that entire generations of women continue to be treated worse than second-class citizens. Yes, schools for girls have tentatively reopened and women are allowed to drive again, but for how long, Armstrong wonders. The human-rights disaster for women that occurred under the Taliban happened with the full knowledge of the rest of the world, and it seems destined to happen again under a new regime. DVD extras--including a commentary track by Armstrong and an interview with Simar and others--only add fuel to righteous fire. A timely look at a disturbing situation, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Johanson)