Malala Yousafzai

Exclusive: The Nobel Committee say they have credible reports that Iranian Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi has been severely beaten in custody. The allegations are graphic and horrific. Nobel chair Jørgen Frydnes calls it “cruel and inhumane treatment, a blatant violation of international human rights law.”

At the “From Kabul to Ottawa: Global Solidarity to End Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan” event, I spoke about the urgent need to address the systematic repression facing Afghanistan women; a repression that is not ordinary discrimination, but one of the most severe forms of gender apartheid. I also highlighted the extraordinary courage of Afghanistan women in confronting immense challenges, their efforts to continue their education through various methods, their solidarity and activism despite ongoing threats and pressure, and their hope and motivation for a better future. At the end of the event, WCRAN presented the “Afghanistan Women Support Award” to several prominent figures, political leaders, human rights defenders, and distinguished supporters of Afghanistan women, who have stood in solidarity with Afghanistan women’s advocacy efforts over the past four years. We intend to formalize this award as an annual initiative, presented each year during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The purpose of formalization is to establish a sustained framework for recognizing individuals, institutions, and activists who work for the rights, freedom, and dignity of Afghanistan women with commitment, courage, and perseverance The selection process will be overseen by a dedicated committee, with awardees chosen according to clear and established criteria.