Zholya Parsi and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov, prominent human rights defenders, are the recipients of the 2024 Martin Ennals Award. This award, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for human rights,” will be presented on November 21, 2024, in Geneva. Both laureates symbolize courage in advocating for rights amidst oppressive regimes in Afghanistan and Tajikistan. Their journeys underscore the vital need for international attention and support for human rights.
In a momentous announcement, Zholya Parsi, an intrepid women’s rights activist from Kabul, and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov, a jailed lawyer from Tajikistan, have been honored with the prestigious Martin Ennals Award—often called the “Nobel Prize for human rights.” This recognition will be celebrated during a ceremony scheduled for November 21, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland, marking the award’s 30th anniversary. While both laureates exemplify extraordinary courage in their respective struggles against oppression, their ability to attend the ceremony remains uncertain, adding an air of poignancy to this prestigious occasion.
The award is conferred by a jury comprising representatives from ten paramount human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. In their deliberations, the jury acknowledged Parsi and Kholiqnazarov as exemplary figures who navigate the treacherous waters of human rights advocacy in Afghanistan and Tajikistan, despite facing severe risks in deeply repressive environments. Hans Thoolen, the jury chair, articulated a commitment to spotlighting their sacrifices, emphasizing the need for international support in their quest for justice and equality.
The Martin Ennals Award stands as a beacon of hope, introduced in 1994 to amplify the voices of human rights defenders who operate on the frontlines of injustice. Named after a prominent human rights advocate, the award aims to provide a platform for those at risk for their activism. The selection of Parsi and Kholiqnazarov aligns with this mission, shining a spotlight on the dire situations in Afghanistan and Tajikistan, where civil liberties have been increasingly curtailed under authoritarian regimes. This recognition can inspire greater international attention and support for their work.
The Martin Ennals Award 2024 embodies a powerful tribute to two fierce defenders of human rights: Zholya Parsi and Manuchehr Kholiqnazarov. Their stories unravel a tapestry of resilience against oppressive forces, showcasing their unwavering commitment to justice and equality. As the world turns its gaze toward Geneva for the award ceremony, the challenges faced by these activists remind us of the vital need for global solidarity and advocacy for those bravely fighting for their rights under challenging circumstances.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
