Series
George W. Bush Institute
Women's Advancement
Improving the lives of women and girls through education, opportunity, health, and leadership development
Our dedication to respecting and protecting women’s rights in all countries must continue if we are to achieve a peaceful, prosperous, and stable world.
–Mrs. Laura Bush
Societies, families, communities, and countries thrive when women and girls hold equal and active roles.
The Bush Institute works to support the women around the world who are building stronger communities and driving us toward a more peaceful world by developing policies and research that advance women’s leadership and spotlight their stories.
From local advocates to global first ladies, we work to advance the impact of women leaders.
The Latest
Podcast
Pashtana Durrani -- Educating Afghan Girls Despite Taliban Rule
Pashtana Durrani is an Afghan feminist, activist, and educator. She founded Afghanistan’s first-ever digital school network, LEARN Afghanistan, and is still providing education for hundreds of girls in the country today despite being exiled after the Taliban’s takeover in 2021.
Publication
Crises shouldn’t cost women their dignity
Publication
Book List: The Leadership and Influence of Women and Girls
In honor of Women’s History Month, the Bush Institute experts have compiled must-read books that celebrate the experiences, influence, and leadership of women and girls across history.
Publication
Afghanistan Relief and Resources
Here is a partial list of organizations working to provide humanitarian relief to the Afghan people on the ground and to refugees.
In Women's Advancement
The latest
Video · Aug 12, 2026
Struggle for Freedom spotlight: Nazeela Elmi
Mar 19, 2026
Who runs the world (and needs to keep running)
Oct 20, 2025
Afghan students react to the Taliban’s recent internet ban
Oct 3, 2025
Afghan women share the devastating consequences of the Taliban’s internet shutdown
Jun 3, 2025
Bush Institute's David J. Kramer provides remarks at the U.S.-Afghan Women's Council 2025 annual meeting
May 21, 2025
Syria needs more women in government to build a stable and prosperous future