Afghanistan’s Ambassador to Austria: A Stalwart Defender of Women’s Rights

Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, fights Taliban oppression from Austria, advocating for women’s rights and education. Despite the Taliban’s dismissal, she remains committed to her role, gaining international recognition while managing a clandestine education network for girls. The documentary “The Last Ambassador” chronicles her efforts and resilience in the face of adversity.

Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s Ambassador to Austria, continues to confront the Taliban’s oppressive regime while advocating for women’s rights from her position in Vienna. She courageously decided to remain in her role despite the Taliban’s attempt to dismiss her after their takeover of Kabul in August 2021. As the last Afghan female envoy, she fights for the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, refusing to yield to Taliban control.

Last week, Bakhtari garnered acclaim at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival, where the documentary “The Last Ambassador,” directed by Natalie Halla, premiered. This film depicts her unwavering resistance against the Taliban and highlights her efforts to prevent the regime from gaining international recognition. Further, Bakhtari has established clandestine educational networks for Afghan girls prohibited from attending school.

Bakhtari remains steadfast in her duties, representing Afghanistan before international organizations despite the Taliban’s disavowal. When confronted with her termination by the Taliban, she defiantly declared her autonomy, stating, “I am not taking orders from you, Mister.” Her commitment to the Afghan populace persists, prioritizing them in her role as a diplomat.

The geopolitical landscape is complicated; Afghan embassies faced uncertainty post-Taliban takeover, with some diplomats collaborating while others, like Bakhtari, took a stand against the regime. Although funds were cut, Bakhtari successfully maintained embassy operations through consular services and initiated a campaign—Dukhtaran—providing secret educational opportunities for girls.

In April 2023, Bakhtari hosted the Vienna Conference, uniting Afghan representatives to strategize against Taliban oppression. Despite facing threats from Taliban sympathizers, she continues to be a prominent voice for women’s rights. Her efforts have received international recognition, including the White Ribbon Award from the OECD, affirming her stance against gender discrimination.

Reflecting on her journey, Bakhtari remains hopeful about the future. She asserts, “The Taliban won’t stay forever. They will be gone one day.” Despite the Taliban’s attempts to erase women’s rights, her resilience and steadfast determination highlight the ongoing struggle for justice and freedom in Afghanistan.

Manizha Bakhtari exemplifies the resilience and determination of Afghan women facing Taliban oppression. Her refusal to abandon her post as Ambassador to Austria and her advocacy for women’s rights shine a light on the challenges in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s resurgence. By fostering education and uniting voices against the regime, Bakhtari continues to inspire hope for a future free from gender discrimination. Her story reflects the broader fight for justice and the rights of women worldwide.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com