Afghanistan: Afghan women's rights activist receives 2007 International Service award

December 6, 2007 (Women living under muslim laws) Najia Haneefi is the 2007 winner of the coveted International Service award for women's human rights, awarded at a ceremony on 5 Dec. at the House of Commons, London.

Najia, until recently Director of the Afghanistan Women's Educational Centre in Kabul, impressed the judges with her 'great commitment' to campaigning for her countrywomen's rights.

They commented that Najia showed 'immense personal courage' to remain committed to her cause despite threats to her life. The judges were also impressed with the 'sustainable and effective' work of the Afghan Women's Educational Centre; in particular its successful combination of practical projects and political campaigning.

Najia has been campaigning for Afghan women's rights for many years. She worked to empower women throughout civil war and the Taliban regime and continues to do so today, despite the fact that her activities have provoked threats and attacks from fundamentalists.

Najia has made a real difference to Afghan women's lives - one of her most memorable achievements is successfully leading a campaign against the reintroduction of a Ministry of Vice and Virtue which, in 2006, seemed certain.

From: http://www.wluml.org/english/newsfulltxt.shtml?cmd[157]=x-157-558896