This week, The New York Times featured an article by Sabrina Tavernise, titled “Broaching Birth Control With Afghan Mullahs.” The article discusses the way Afghan religious leaders are aiding the foreign nonprofit group, Marie Stopes International, in its effort to teach women about birth control. Mary Stopes International, like Circle of Women, focuses on the power of educating women to better their lives, but the organization works specifically to increase awareness about reproductive health. As the article notes, Afghan women have the highest birthrate in Asia. This is not only a burden to a people whose average earnings are not enough to support such a large number of children, but also the cause for the high maternal mortality rate.

The article presents an optimistic view of the seminars’ potential effect, suggesting that “attitudes are starting to change.” However, Tavernise recognizes that the mullahs’ support is a key factor in the general populous’ acceptance of the teachings.