This is a new beginning, a great beginning for women in Afghanistan, a time of hope,

I was elected by the women of Ireland, who instead of rocking the cradle, rocked the system.

It's only when you have a critical mass of women in politics that you get women's issues attacked.

In a society where the rights and potential of women are constrained, no man can be truly free. He may have power, but he will not have freedom.

An interim government was set up in Afghanistan. It included two women, one of whom was Minister of Women's Affairs. Man, who'd she have to show here ankles to to get that job?

Crescent House is a beacon of hope for women who need reassurance that they do have the strength and power to survive what they are going through. It's a space for women to receive whatever support they need to survive the abuse and determine a plan of action for getting out of it.