For the vast majority of Afghan women, the family functions as the paramount social institution. Thus women's participation in public office remains conspicuous by its absence.

King Amīr Amān Allāh (1919–29) tried to liberate women but his programs met with tribal backlash and led to his overthrow. During the premiership of Muḥammad Dāwūd (1953–63) an attempt at public unveiling occurred on the second day of Jeshn (24–30 August 1959). Other bold steps were also taken; for example, a delegation of Afghan women participate…