Shahmama, in collaboration with other esteemed partners, successfully hosted an international conference at the UN in Geneva. The event, titled “For Freedom: Global Solidarity with the Struggles of Women of Afghanistan ,” was held with the co-sponsorship of nine Permanent Missions and the active participation of civil society partners.
The Shahmama delegation of 8 courageous and dedicated Afghan women human rights defenders delivered powerful, uncompromising speeches at our International Conference on June 19th at the UN in Geneva.
Their voices shook the walls of silence.
We deeply appreciate their strength and advocacy. #JusticeForAfghanWomen
We sincerely thank the Permanent Missions that co-sponsored the conference for their solidarity and commitment to advancing the rights and dignity of Afghan women. Their support was instrumental in making this important gathering possible.
The first segment of the conference was moderated by Ms. Suraya Azizi, Executive Director of Shahmama. The opening remarks were delivered by:
1. H.E. Mr. Nasir Ahmad Andisha, Ambassador of Afghanistan to the United Nations in Geneva
2. H.E. Ms. Claire Thuaudet, Deputy Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations
3. Mr. Richard Bennett, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan
The conference continued with three thematic panel discussions:
1. Testimonies and Documentation of Human Rights Violations
Afghan women from including survivors shared personal experiences of repression and widespread human rights violations. The importance of documentation as a path to justice was emphasized. This panel was moderated by Meera Nayak.
2. Legal Accountability and International Mechanisms.
Human rights experts explored international legal tools and accountability mechanisms for addressing grave human rights violations in Afghanistan.
3. Global Solidarity and International Commitments.
Moderated by Dr. Melissa Chiovqnda, this panel focused on the crucial role of the international community in supporting Afghan women, ensuring their meaningful participation in global processes, and implementing concrete actions to advance women’s rights.
The conference concluded with strong unified call for continued international support/ solidarity stronger documentation efforts, and coordinated action to ensure justice and freedom for Afghan women.
