The women of Afghanistan have been awarded the 2026 Chatham House Prize in recognition of their courage and resilience in the face of systematic gender persecution, and for their determination to defend the rights and futures of women and girls.
Five years after the Taliban returned to power, women and girls in Afghanistan have been systematically excluded from education, employment, public life and many essential services. Despite these restrictions, Afghan women continue to advocate for their rights and support their communities, both within Afghanistan and across the diaspora.
Inside and outside the country, women have organised protests, maintained access to education through informal and underground initiatives, documented human rights abuses, and built networks that provide support, opportunities and solidarity. Their efforts have helped sustain international attention on the situation facing women and girls in Afghanistan.
The 2026 Chatham House Prize recognises the women of Afghanistan for their collective resistance to these restrictions and their continued efforts to advance equality and opportunity for future generations. Their actions have become a powerful symbol of resilience and determination in the face of unprecedented challenges.
About the Chatham House Prize:
The Chatham House Prize is awarded annually by Chatham House members following nominations from the institute’s staff. The award is presented on behalf of the institute’s patron, His Majesty the King and recognises individuals, groups or organisations that have made a significant contribution to the improvement of international relations.
Established in 2005, previous recipients of the Prize include President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sir David Attenborough, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Médecins Sans Frontières and Sudan’s grassroots mutual aid groups – the Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs).
If you or your organization would be interested in supporting the event through sponsorship, please do get in touch with Zara Berry.
