The brutal execution by the Afghan Taliban of a married woman falsely accused of adultery has sparked international outrage. The killing of the 22-year-old also heightened concern for Afghan women after the U.S. ends its combat mission. Some women's advocates were encouraged by protests this week in Kabul against the execution, calling the reaction evidence of progress. But the reality is that physical, sexual and psychological abuse of women occurs across the globe. In many places it exists in epidemic proportions. Director of the Wilson Center's new Global Women's Leadership Initiative, Rangita del Silva de Alwis joined NPR's "The Diane Rehm" show to discuss efforts to empower women and change cultural attitudes among men and boys.

Listen to the full interview here.