KABUL - The courageous struggles of Afghan women to overcome cultural restrictions and violence were highlighted in a documentary film shown in Kabul today as part of global International Women’s Day celebrations.

Around 60 people attended the UN-backed event, which included the screening of the Afghan film “After Years of Struggle.” The documentary focuses on the lives of Afghan women affected by violence and abuse, including forced marriage and the sale of children.

Award-winning Afghan producer, director and writer, Roya Sadat, answered questions about her 30-minute documentary, which also highlights existing legal protections along with the advances Afghan women have made in education and other areas.

Ms. Sadat said the key problems facing women in Afghanistan today are related to insecurity and culture, including access to education and vocational opportunity.

“The long-protracted war has made for a very male-dominated society that impacts the culture, where women’s rights are not accorded importance,” said Ms. Sadat. “Sometimes the culprits of violence take refuge with insurgents and there is impunity; when the law doesn’t get implemented, crimes get repeated.”

Ms. Sadat stressed that despite the many challenges Afghan women face, she remains optimistic about the future.

International Women’s Day is celebrated in Afghanistan and around the world on 8 March. It is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and relevant international and local non-governmental organizations to assist in the full implementation of the fundamental freedoms and human rights provisions of the Afghan Constitution and international treaties to which Afghanistan is a State party, in particular those regarding the full enjoyment by women of their human rights.

“After Years of Struggle” is set to be shown at two international film festivals this year, including the 2016 Women's Voices Now Film Festival.