Manizha Bakhtari: Afghanistan’s Last Ambassador Fighting for Women’s Rights

Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, Manizha Bakhtari, is confronting the Taliban from Austria, advocating for women’s rights and resisting oppression. After surviving the fall of Kabul, she continues to represent Afghanistan and has initiated educational programs for girls. Her efforts have gained substantial international recognition, reflecting her dedication to justice and women’s rights in Afghanistan amid significant challenges.

Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, is actively confronting the Taliban from her position in Austria. Despite the fall of Kabul in August 2021, she remains steadfast in advocating for women’s rights and continues to represent her country in Vienna, establishing herself as a symbol of resistance against oppression.

Prior to the Taliban’s takeover, Bakhtari expressed her concerns to Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister regarding the government’s stability. After the Taliban seized control, she persisted in her role, defying orders to leave her position. Her dedication to women’s rights has led her to create a covert educational network for girls who have been barred from attending schools.

Bakhtari’s efforts have garnered international recognition, exemplified by her recent standing ovation at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival, where a documentary about her, titled “The Last Ambassador,” premiered. This film captures her journey as she stands firm against the Taliban, calling attention to their repressive regime.

To navigate the complexities of the Taliban’s legal status, Bakhtari emphasizes the importance of representing the Afghan people’s interests rather than conforming to the new regime. As the Taliban implemented policies that restrict women’s participation in society, she worked to retain the embassy’s operations and initiated the Dukhtaran program, providing clandestine lessons for girls.

Bakhtari actively promotes unity among Afghan resistance by organizing conferences and workshops in Vienna. Despite facing threats from Taliban supporters, she was awarded the White Ribbon Award in July for her unwavering commitment to defending women’s rights. Bakhtari remains hopeful about the future, asserting that the Taliban’s power will not endure.

The situation remains precarious, yet her resilience highlights the fight against fundamentalism. Halla, the director of “The Last Ambassador,” underscores Bakhtari’s critical role in maintaining an embassy that serves as a launching pad for advocacy amidst dire circumstances, revealing the ongoing struggle for justice and equality for Afghan women.

Manizha Bakhtari’s unwavering commitment as the last female ambassador of Afghanistan exemplifies the fight against Taliban oppression. Her innovative efforts to provide education for girls and her role as a voice for Afghan women have earned her international acclaim. Despite formidable challenges, her optimistic outlook suggests a belief in an eventual change in Afghanistan’s political landscape. Bakhtari’s resilience and activism are critical in promoting rights and justice within a turbulent environment.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com