Burqa
an Afghan woman wears the all-encompassing traditional burqa in Kabu, August 2006. Despite advances in women's rights since the fall of the Taliban regime over five years ago _ including the right to venture out in public without a male relative _ many Afghan ladies are still wearing the shroud-like gowns that were mandatory under the hardline militia's rule. Some are forced to by over-protective fathers and tribal custom, although a few see it as proud symbol of Afghanistan _ even if the garment, that hangs like a tent from their head, gives them headaches and makes everyday a bad hair day. ( Photo by Farzana Wahidy)
