Shinkai Karokhail is a prominent women’s rights activist who served as a member of the Afghan Parliament for 16 years. She was later appointed as the Afghan Ambassador to Canada. In addition, she co-founded and served as the Director of the Afghan Women’s Education Center (AWEC) for four years and was also an active member of the Afghan Women’s Network (AWN). Shinkai Karokhail launched a national campaign, “Let’s Fight Against Cancer,” in collaboration with other notable figures and medical professionals in Afghanistan. Her efforts, in partnership with healthcare professionals, led to the establishment of the first Afghanistan Cancer Foundation (ACF) and the creation of an Oncology Ward at Jamhooriat Public Hospital in Kabul in October 2016. During her time in parliament, Shinkai Karokhail, along with her colleagues and women’s rights activists, founded the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus. Their collective efforts resulted in the approval of the National Action Plan for the Women of Afghanistan (NAPWA) by the government. She was also involved in drafting the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW) Law, which was enacted by Presidential Decree in 2009. Additionally, Karokhail played a crucial role in amending 50 articles of the Shiite Personal Status Law.

 

Ms. Karokhail has been the recipient of several prestigious awards from both national and international organizations for her work in advancing women’s rights since 1990. In October 2016, she was recognized by the First Lady of Afghanistan and the Ministry of Public Health for her contributions to the fight against cancer. In May 2014, she received the Malalai Kakar Human Rights Award from the Queens-based organization Women for Afghan Women. Furthermore, in August 2014, the Afghan American Women’s Association (AAWA), based in Virginia, honored her with a Humanitarian Award for her promotion of women’s rights in Afghanistan.

 

In September 2012, the EastWest Institute, a U.S.-based NGO, presented her and Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, with a joint award for Value-Based Leadership. Additionally, in December 2015, on International Anti-Corruption Day, the Civil Society Coordination Center (CSCC) awarded Karokhail an Anti-Corruption Award. Her exceptional work in advancing women’s rights has also been recognized by various media outlets, including the renowned TV channel AREZO in northern Afghanistan.

 

Ms Karokhail was elected to Parliament for the third time, representing Kabul province. She was also the chairperson and founder of the Afghan Parliamentary Women’s Caucus in 2007 and 2019. Shinkai Karokhail remains a strong advocate for women’s rights and human rights through various platforms. She is a member of Together Stronger, CFFA, and CAF.