On November 21, the Martin Ennals Award will honor Afghan teacher Zholia Parsi and Tajik lawyer Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov for their courageous activism against oppression in Central Asia. Parsi, leading the Spontaneous Movement of Afghan Women, defies the Taliban’s gender apartheid, while Kholiqnazarov advocates for Pamiri rights despite being imprisoned after an unfair trial. This year’s ceremony in Geneva highlights the resilience of human rights defenders worldwide.
On November 21, the esteemed Martin Ennals Award (MEA) will shine a spotlight on the courage of two remarkable human rights activists from Central Asia: Zholia Parsi from Afghanistan and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov from Tajikistan. Facing oppressive regimes that stifle their voices, both individuals have shown unparalleled resolve in advocating for fundamental rights in their respective countries.
Zholia Parsi, a dedicated teacher from Kabul, witnessed the erosion of women’s rights following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. The Taliban’s harsh policies resulted in her daughters being denied access to education, igniting her passion to form the Spontaneous Movement of Afghan Women (SMAW). With a membership that swelled to 180, SMAW mobilized protests against the regressive gender apartheid. Even after enduring three months of torture while detained by the Taliban, Parsi’s commitment only deepened, fueling her fight for freedom.
In Tajikistan, Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov, a valiant human rights lawyer from the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast, has championed the rights of the Pamiri minority. His tireless advocacy for justice following the tragic murder of youth leader Gulbiddin Ziyobekov led to increased scrutiny of governmental actions. However, his efforts landed him a 16-year prison sentence on charges many deem politically motivated. Kholiqnazarov’s arrest was part of a broader crackdown on dissent, but it has not extinguished the flame of resistance in the GBAO.
The Martin Ennals Award, established in 1994, is a beacon of hope for human rights defenders operating under perilous circumstances. Every year, this honor brings global attention to those whose voices often remain unheard. The 2024 ceremony will be held in Geneva, uniting advocates from around the world to celebrate their indomitable spirit. Register now to witness a testament to resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
As we reflect on the journeys of Zholia Parsi and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov, we are reminded of the power of individual conviction and the impact of collective action. These two activists, representing the struggles of many, embody the spirit of change in regions often overlooked. Their stories challenge us to recognize and support those who dare to stand against oppression, reminding us that every voice matters.
The Martin Ennals Award (MEA) serves as a prestigious platform to recognize and amplify the efforts of human rights defenders globally. Established in 1994, it seeks to promote and protect those who risk their safety for the rights of others, particularly in regions where such acts are met with severe repression. The MEA is a collaboration among various human rights organizations, symbolizing unity in the struggle for justice and accountability. Activists Zholia Parsi and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov epitomize this mission, standing firm against gender apartheid and minority oppression, respectively, in Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
The courage displayed by Zholia Parsi and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov is a clarion call for justice and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights in Central Asia. Their unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of women and minorities amidst tremendous adversity highlights the importance of collective resilience against oppression. The upcoming Martin Ennals Award ceremony not only honors their sacrifice but also serves as a rallying point for global citizenry to stand in solidarity with defenders of human rights.
Original Source: ishr.ch
