Dear friend,
As we welcome the Afghan Solar New Year 1404, we reflect on a year of struggle, resilience, and, most importantly, unwavering hope. This journey has taken us through some of the darkest moments, where all seemed lost. The situation for Afghan women in Pakistan has been worsening, and for a time, it felt like every door was closing. We hit the lowest point.
Yet, in the deepest darkness, there is always a light. And today, we have a breakthrough.
A New Year’s message from Maria Noori
At a gathering in Islamabad, Pakistan, the Freedom Movement and the Empowered Women’s Movement of Afghanistan came together to mark the New Year—not in celebration, but in defiance and hope.
“I extend my congratulations to all the honorable people of Afghanistan, especially the women and girls of my country, who have been deprived of all their rights under the oppression of a misogynistic, anti-education, and anti-culture group.
However, we begin this New Year with fresh hopes and new aspirations.”
“While the world celebrates this day with cultural and educational programs, in Afghanistan, the doors of schools, universities, and even medical institutions remain shut to women and girls.
Our message to the United Nations, the international community, and human rights organizations is clear: Afghanistan is a UN member state, a signatory to international human rights conventions, and therefore must be held accountable. Please support Afghan women in accordance with the commitments and guarantees of international laws.”
This call echoes the voices of so many Afghan women—women who refuse to be silent, who refuse to accept invisibility, who demand their fundamental rights.
The Breakthrough: Avaaz Steps In!
Just when hope felt like it was slipping away, a light appeared. We are thrilled to share that Avaaz, a global advocacy organization, has stepped in to help.
✅ They will push the Brazilian government for a direct conversation with key Ministries to explore urgent solutions.
✅ They will activate their network in Asia to seek help from other governments.
✅ They are confident that they can act in time—and they are moving forward immediately.
This is the result of your voices, your signatures, and your refusal to give up.
The situation remains desperate – but we keep pushing
The reality is still harsh. The Pakistani government has ordered landlords to evict Afghan refugees, forcing families—including these women—onto the streets with nowhere to go.
We have not won yet. But we have momentum. And in moments like these, we are reminded that even in the darkest night, there is always a spark of light. That spark is each of you who has stood with us.
Let this New Year be a turning point
As we step into 1404, may this be the year that Afghan women’s voices are not just heard—but acted upon. May this be the year where doors open instead of close. May this be the year that justice outweighs oppression.
Thank you for standing with us. Please keep sharing the petition—we are not done yet. But today, we step forward with renewed strength.
With deep gratitude and hope,
Nadja & Team