Dr. Jalal was the only female candidate in Afghanistan’s 2004 presidential election. Previously, she has served as Afghanistan’s Minister of Women’s Affairs. A paediatrician and political activist, Dr. Jalal teaches at Kabul University and also works for the UN World Food Programme. As a representative of women in Afghan society, Massouda has been critical of the government’s lack of support for women’s advancement. The Jalal Foundation, her NGO, unites more than 50 women councils and organizations to advocate for, and empower, women.
