Biography:
Hasina Jalal (Persian: حسینه جلال) is an advocate for women’s rights and democracy in Afghanistan. She has played a significant role in promoting gender equality and empowering Afghan women and girls. Her dedication to these causes has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally.
Born in Afghanistan, Hasina Jalal grew up in a society deeply affected by conflict and political instability. She witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by Afghan women and the need for social and political change. This ignited a passion within her to fight for women’s rights in her homeland.
Jalal’s advocacy work began in 2012 when she co-founded the National Association of Afghanistan Civil Society. This organization brought together over 50 non-profit and non-governmental organizations with the aim of addressing social issues and promoting sustainable development in Afghanistan. Through her involvement, Jalal aimed to amplify the voices of Afghan women and girls, ensuring their concerns and rights were acknowledged.
Her commitment to advocating for gender equality extended beyond the borders of Afghanistan. Jalal co-founded the first alliance of South Asian women on women’s economic, social, and cultural rights in Sri Lanka. This platform provided an opportunity for women from different countries to come together, share experiences, and work towards achieving common goals.
Jalal’s efforts to advance women’s rights have been recognized and awarded. In 2014, she was elected by public vote to receive the prestigious N-Peace Award from the UNDP Asia Pacific Regional Office and the UN Secretary General’s Special Advisor on the University for Peace. This award acknowledged her outstanding contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and the empowerment of women in Afghanistan.
Throughout her career, Hasina Jalal has been a strong advocate for women’s rights and democracy, challenging the systemic inequities and injustices that persist in her homeland. She has used her voice and platform to raise awareness about the struggles faced by Afghan women and to create meaningful change. Her dedication and relentless efforts have made her an influential figure in women’s history in Afghanistan.
Awards:
– N-Peace Award from the UNDP Asia Pacific Regional Office and the UN Secretary General’s Special Advisor on the University for Peace (2014)