About the Author

Marianne Elliott is a writer, human and environmental rights advocate, and international yoga instructor. Trained as a lawyer, Marianne created the Action Plan for Human Rights in New Zealand, helped the government craft their own human rights strategy in Timor-Leste, and spent two years working in human rights in the Gaza Strip prior to her time in Afghanistan. Marianne also co-wrote a UNIFEM report on Gender-Based Violence in Afghanistan. A popular blogger (www.marianne-elliott.com), Marianne is also a frequent contributor to the Huffington Post.