Farkhonda Hassan

"The objective now is not to renegotiate our dreams, but to emphasize the accountability of all actors through detailed discussions of goals, targets, achievements and failures. We are no longer seeking promises, but are demanding action."

"The Beijing platform should no longer be viewed as a set of simple goals and aspirations, but must be used as a tool to push for the adoption of gender-sensitive policies."

"The majority of African women are still denied education and employment, and have limited opportunities in trade, industry and government."

"Gender disparities still exist. Such disparities undermine not only women's capacity to participate in and benefit from development, but also the effectiveness of development as a whole. This is the reason for the president's insistence that illiteracy must be eliminated within a short period of time."

"No revenge acts were taken during my mayorship."