The Escape from Kabul

WINNER OF THE 2026 ORWELL PRIZE FOR NON-FICTION

Combining moment-by-moment drama with an emotional story of friendship and bravery, The Escape from Kabul is also a searing insight into the captive fate of women in Afghanistan.

In the twenty years since 2001, Afghan women obtained legal degrees, became judges and set out to transform their country – tackling corruption, and reducing horrifying levels of violence against women and children. These educated and powerful women led the mission to build a modern democracy that respected the rule of law and human rights. However, when Western forces withdrew in August 2021, the women judges of Afghanistan faced mortal danger.

The Escape from Kabul is the extraordinary, never-before-told story of their escape, and the shocking fates of those who were unable to flee. Bestselling, veteran journalist Karen Bartlett has had unique access to many of the women involved, including those in exile and the judges still trapped in Afghanistan, as well as the international network of women judges who were vital to the escape effort.