http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-879170.mp3
Albany, NY – 2009 ended with the promise of a military buildup in Afghanistan...an administration promise to hit hard, strike a decisive blow against terrorism, then get out. But many say it's an unrealistic goal - that American soldiers will be in Afghanistan for many years to come.
Connie Frisbee Houde is a photojournalist who's traveled the world - and she's visited Afghanistan several times. Her most recent visit showed her a country that's made some strides forward for its women...while other rights, and the quality of life, are eroding.
5:26 Houde Afghanistan Barnett
Connie Frisbee Houde calls herself a Global Village Photographer. You can find her work online at conniefrisbeehoude.com. Houde is spelled H-O-U-D-E.
A new report from the World Health Organization says women are living six to eight years longer than men. In many societies, widowed women are cared for by their families and communities. But that's not the case in some parts of India where widows are seen as a curse. They're shunned, discarded by family and friends. Consequently, many of them head north to beg on the streets. Will Everett of World Vision Reports travels to the "city of widows."
5:02 Widows
You're probably aware of the International Declaration of Human Rights. It was an historic document drafted in the United Nations under the direction of former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt. But Mrs. Roosevelt was also championed another treaty - one that specifically addressed women's rights. And one that the United States has still not adopted. Former UN Ambassador and White House assistant for women's concerns, Linda Tarr-Whelan, says US participation is overdue.
4:37 Linda Tarr Whelan commentary
Linda Tarr Whelan is a Demos Distinguished Fellow, a former UN Ambassador, White House assistant and author of the book, "Women Lead the Way: Your Guide to Stepping Up to Leadership and Changing the World." This commentary first appeared at the Women's eNews website at womensenews.org.
Thousands of children in Haiti's capitol city, Port au Prince, beg on the streets to survive. Most street kids are invisible to those passing by. In this reporter's notebook, Amelia de Sousa tells us about an encounter she had with one boy who reached through her car window and left a lasting impression.
4:32 Smiling Kid essay