Afghanistan is a country that has a history of keeping women behind closed doors, and keeping them from participating in society on the same level as men. But there has fresh change of pace happening in the country and it’s coming from the first lady.
The Associated Press did an interview with Rula Ghani, first lady of Afghanistan, because she is breaking traditions like never before. Being seen and heard in public is alone something to take notice of especially since it’s the first time that has happened in decades.
Not only that, but she has spoken out on violence against women. She’s even talked about the rule of law and power of religion, which in her country, normally limits women’s rights.
Her husband, President Ashraf Ghani, took over eight months ago and started things by introducing his wife in his inaugural speech. That might not be a big deal for countries like the United States where First Lady Michelle Obama is one of the most influential figures in the country; or for Britain, a country where the Queen is revered and fans stalk Kate Middleton’s every move.
But for Afghanistan, a country where before now, the First Lady was not even seen, it is a huge deal.
In the interview, Rula Ghani says that Afghanistan is going through a change and wants a first lady at the President’s side. "I seem to have answered a need that was there. I think previous first ladies were not accessible," she says. "And I am accessible."
Ms. Ghani attends functions with her husband but does not like to participate in the politics. Instead, she has listened to hundreds of Afghan citizens seeking advice. She sees herself as a “listening post” and has sought to fill the need for a feminine influence at the center of the government.
As bold as these moves are, Rula Ghani has resisted labels of being an advocate for women’s rights and instead insists that she supports any vulnerable population and ending the cycle of violence in Afghanistan overall.
"The whole fight to reduce violence against women is within the fight of reducing (all) violence, period. It is within the process of trying to bring back peace to this country," she said.
She might insist that radical change is not going to come from her, but she did say that she sees indications that Afghanistan is ready to rediscover the respect that has been long forgotten.
Earlier this month, Afghan courts sentenced four men to death for the mob killing of a woman in Kabul. Eight others were given 16 years in jail.
Ms. Ghani said that the attack has "shaken the nation” and “really opened up the eyes of people ... we don't want to live in a society in which violence is the rule.”
It is exciting to hear from Rula Ghani, because being an outspoken woman in Afghanistan is the change that this country needs. As global citizens, we need to continue to spread the message that violence against women is not okay. Go to TAKE ACTION NOW and sign the petition to protect girls and women's rights.