An Expert talk on Human Rights Violations across the Globe

 Q&A with Advocate Savita Sharma on the Violation of Human Rights

About the Expert: 

Savita Sharma is a former advocate in the Jalandhar session court. She has more than 5 years of experience in the field of Law. Apart from that, she has a wide range of knowledge across various fields such as human rights, women's rights, and environmental laws. 

Introduction:

The interview with the former advocate Savita Sharma was a conversation that was not just about human rights but heart-aching and spoke about the Afghan women's plight and sufferings. Passion for justice, concern for Afghan women's plight, and reminders of the heart-wrenching incidents and that every statistic has a story of courage and suffering, these were the issues we discussed with Savita.

Q: Savita, what human rights violations among Afghanistan women are most pressing today?

A: It's tragic. With the Taliban back in power, women are deprived of all rights. These women cannot study up to the sixth-grade level while many are not even allowed to work. Imagine that you are such a mother who is unable to give food to your children, or maybe even a young girl who is ambitious to be a doctor, but is still at home. It's not only a political matter; it is also a human tragedy to the families and communities.

Q. What specific things have been implemented by the Taliban against women's rights?

A: The restrictions are shocking and devastating. Women are supposed to wear full hijab on the public and must carry themselves with a male relative when they leave home. "It's chocking environment where fear dampens hope," said Ms. Savita . Many women face threats and violence just for trying to raise their voices or ask for rights. A woman was arrested for protesting these restrictions. Her bravery to stand up is inspiring, but it points at the same time at the risks they face daily.

Q: How do these violations compare to international human rights standards?

A: The actions of the Taliban clearly form a gross violation of international human rights standards, especially in those specified by CEDAW. It is painful that such rapid regression has now taken place in a country that had achieved progress in women's rights. Women in Afghanistan are facing a brahminical form of gender persecution. One needs to remember these policies are not just terms on paper; they are destroyed lives.

Q. What can the international community do to address these violations?

A: The international community surely has much power and levers of influence in terms of making change. It can impose sanctions against those committing such atrocities and ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those women and girls in most need. Support local activists-these selfless people often stand at the forefront of human rights defense. We should amplify their voices much louder so they are not lost in the global dialogue.

Q: What do Afghan women do on their own to claim their rights?

A: Indeed, there is so much resilience and courage shown by Afghan women. In spite of this hostile atmosphere, people are hitting the streets for protests, secret schools for education, and social media for reaching out to the world about their situation. They are the icons of determination to reclaim their rights. They are not mere sitting victims; they have been active agents who put their lives at risk for a better future.

Q: How do you perceive education in the context of eliminating these human rights violations?

A: Education has more strength to empower women than perhaps anything else. It provides women with opportunities; it helps them to know their rights. Why the Taliban banned girls' education in Afghanistan is a strategic move to keep women subservient and powerless. If we could help this kind of training programs for girls, then we would be working against oppression and towards creating a better life society.

Q: What message do you want to communicate to people about the situation in Afghanistan?

A: My message is this: we cannot look the other way. Afghan women's stories are stories of strength and resilience, deep pain and injustice. People across the world must stand in solidarity with them, listen to their stories, and advocate their rights. Every voice counts, together we can be that chorus that calls for change.

Q: How can people contribute to the cause of human rights in Afghanistan?

A: People can contribute in various ways. Self-education, creating awareness among others of the situation in Afghanistan, and supporting organizations on ground for women and girls, lobbying for policies, and prioritizing human rights, are but to name a few. In fact, small actions such as a tweet from your social media account or even participation in an awareness campaign may also make a difference. Every minute counts in the struggle for justice.

Conclusion: 

The conversation with Savita Sharma left me with a poignant reminder of the human cost of political decisions. The plight of women in Afghanistan is not just an issue; it is the rallying cry for all of us. As we reflect on their struggles, let us remember that behind every statistic is a woman with dreams, hopes, and a fierce desire for freedom. Amplifying the voices and advocating their rights would help us to secure a better future where every man or woman lives in dignity and with respect. The fight for human rights is a journey shared by all, which begins with an understanding of shared humanity.