June 12, 2007

by Her Excellency Michaëlle Jean

 Two female journalists were killed in less than a week in Afghanistan. As a woman and former journalist, I was both terrified and outraged when I heard the news.

I could not help but think of the fears and concerns expressed by several of the Afghan women—some of whom were journalists—that I spoke with during my recent visit to their country, a country still on the verge of chaos.

I went to Kabul on International Women’s Day specifically to show them how much I admire their courage and to tell them that their achievements inspire hope in women around the world.

During that visit, I also told President Karzai that I believe the role of Afghan women in Afghanistan’s reconstruction is imperative. I said it then and I say it again today with the same conviction: “Empower women and you will see a decrease in poverty, illiteracy, disease and violence.”

Journalist Zakia Zaki represented all those women who are resisting and rebuilding their country. Thirty-five years old, she ran Radio Sohl (peace radio), taught little girls and was herself the mother of six children. Zakia Zaki was considered a threat by those who killed her because she advocated the emancipation of Afghan women and never hesitated to speak out during the despotic regime of the Taliban. They may no longer be in power, but their continued spread of terror still forces many women to remain hidden in their home or under their burka. 

The Afghanistan Independent Journalists Association has condemned this murder and has said that it demonstrates how difficult it is for journalists—especially women—to work in that context. It declared that Zakia Zaki’s belief in freedom of expression is what got her killed.

I want to reaffirm my unwavering support for Afghan women and let them know that we support them. You too can share your solidarity with them right here on this site.

When an Afghan woman is killed, a part of the larger dream of justice, freedom and equality for all of humanity also dies.