Children in prison with their mothers

There is a high rate of poverty-related crime in Afghanistan. In order to support themselves and their families many people are forced to steal, smuggle drugs or work in the sex trade.

For women the problems are even more extreme. Denied education and the opportunity to work, their survival is often dependant on family support and marriage. Poverty, conflict and a high level of domestic abuse have broken down these relationships and support networks. The social stigma attached to divorce and sexual abuse means that women become further marginalised and are more likely to turn to illegal activities to survive.

With no support available, women who end up in prison often have to bring their children with them. In the case of pregnant women, their children may be born and raised in detention, never seeing the outside world. Subjected to abuse by inmates and guards, lacking access to adequate healthcare and living in filthy conditions, mothers are unable to care for their children as they would like. The emotional and physical wellbeing of their children is under constant threat.

War Child has set up a kindergarten service for these children that ensures they have access to adequate healthcare, food, clothing and recreation. When they first started attending the kindergarten the children were quiet, shy and withdrawn. Now they are excited, noisy and confident.

We also work with their mothers, offering them counselling, training in child care and run a family liaison service. By helping to reconnect mothers with their families and encouraging greater understanding of their situation and needs we are able ensure their support once they leave detention.