WOMEN to be - Fondazione Fondiaria Sai

Fondiaria Sai Foundation
WOMEN to be
the on-line magazine from Herat
A collection of the first year issues
July 2010 - July 2011
WOMEN to be
the on-line magazine from Herat
A collection of the first year issues
July 2010 - July 2011
Copyright © 2011 by Fondiaria Sai Foundation
Edited by Barbara Donat-Cattin. Created by Erika Pauselli
Cover photo © Alessandro Belgiojoso
www.fondazionefondiariasai.it
Contents
Foreword
Introduction
1st PART - 2010
n.1 July
n.2 August
n.3 September
n.4 October
n.5 November
n.66 Dicember
Di
b
2nd PART - 2011
n.7 January
b
n.88 FFebruary
n.9 March
n.10 April
n.11 May
n.12
12 June/July
J /J l
Contributors
Foreword
This is a collection of all the articles and reports which were published in the
first year of the on-line magazine WOMEN to be. This edited/publishing project by
the Fondiaria Sai Foundation has helped everyone involved to have a better
understanding of Afghanistan thanks to the unconventional words and photos of
the young journalists involved.
If the lack of freedom prevents women from expressing their talent it will be
evidenced in the stories written by our reporters. Their words and photos
accompany us on a journey through Afghan women’s dreams, hopes and
creativity.
In 2010 during my mission in Afghanistan I realised that the first priority in such
a country was to give voice to the women. Meeting these women covered by
their burqa was an extraordinary experience. The thing that impressed me most
was that despite their life under this very heavy piece of clothing – which allows
them
only
inches
women are stillll desperately
h
l a few
f
h off light
l h – allll these
h
d
l trying to
make themselves heard. For all these reasons we have decided to set up the
Women Journalists project in partnership with the Cattolica University of Milan.
This experience was very important for me especially as I shared it with prof.
M
Marco
L b di who
Lombardi
h held
h ld this
thi journalist
j
li t course for
f these
th
students.
t d t
I would also like to thank Mr. La Russa (former Italian Minister of Defence) and
Mr. Frattini (former Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs) for their important
contribution to our magazine. I will always be extremely grateful to the members
of PRT and CIMIC who have supported me and above all the Fondiaria Sai
women’ss future: a
Foundation who have contributed to improving these young women
future to be”.
Giulia Ligresti
President of the Fondiaria Sai Foundation
Introduction
WOMEN to be
b confirms
f
the
h Fondiaria
F d
Sai
S Foundation
F
d
commitment not only for women but also for a Country
going through a complex transition.
A distant Nation both geographically and culturally,
a completely different world. For better or worse?
O l history
Only
hi t
can ttell.
ll
Most of the articles and photo reports were written
and realized by young women. These women represent
the future and - above all - are the novelty of a society
where too often there has been a lack of dialogue.
This volume includes contributions and real evidence
which enable us to discover Afghanistan. A Country
full of contrasts with a wide gap between men and
women. It is thanks to WOMEN to be that a minority
of women have had the possibility to express themselves.
Civil and military authorities,
authorities important personalities and
well-known journalists have all agreed to the same aim:
to bring out the best in these young Afghan women.
This volume is the living proof of a successful project
which has been created day by day with an important
partner like the Cattolica University of Milan.
The constant confrontation with professor Lombardi
has transformed a job into a life experience.
The key-word has been collaboration.
Barbara Donat-Cattin
Secretary General of the Fondiaria Sai Foundation
July n. 1
In this issue:
Minister of Defence I. La Russa - Open letter
G. Ligresti - “My” Afghanistan
M. Lombardi - Becoming journalists in Herat
S. Hashemi - Press conference with Maria Bashir
S. Hashemi - Free medical service in Camp Vianini
July 2010 n°1
Letter of the Minister of Defence
Ignazio La Russa
The men and women serving in Afghanistan are fully aware - just as we
are - that their presence not only safeguards the rebuilding of this
tormented Country, but also ensures our freedom and keeps the
dangers of war and terrorism away from our homes. I have stated many
times that this mission will not be a done deal unless the so-called process of Afghanisation is
finalised. This means that local institutions and the Afghan people must acquire a minimum degree
of autonomy so that they can decide on their future and manage all available resources on their
own. Bearing this in mind, I am deeply convinced that a larger Italian military engagement should
be flanked by a much deeper action and political strategy aimed at providing stability to the
Country and that more effective institution building activities should be implemented with a view
Country,
to consolidating the local civil society.
Within the framework of such projects, the media also play a leading role. The workshop titled
‘Women and journalism: representation and professionalization of the Afghan woman in the local
and global media’ is part of the initiatives. It was promoted by the International Solidarity Centre
of the Catholic University of Milan, whose partners are the Fondiaria Sai Foundation, the Italian
Embassy in Kabul and the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) of Herat,
Herat an Army-Framework
Army Framework
Unit involved in reconstruction, development and governance efforts.
At present the project – which is supervised by Professor Marco Lombardi of the Catholic
University of Milan – is part of a wider span of cooperation activities between the Universities of
Milan and Herat. Its aim is to teach Afghan women professional skills with a special focus on
communication and media. Unfortunately, Afghanistan is still a Country where gender
di i i ti
discrimination
i very strong:
is
t
women’s
’ economic
i reliance
li
on men, illiteracy,
illit
and
d the
th poor
knowledge of their own rights are only some of the aspects which prevent women from reaching
a satisfactory degree of emancipation. We are very proud to give these young women the
possibility to continue their studies and hence improve their general conditions.
This is why I want to thank not only the Catholic University of Milan and the Fondiaria Sai
Foundation for their incessant promotion of this media workshop, but also our military forces. In
f t every day
fact,
d they
th carry outt difficult
diffi lt and
d dangerous
d
t k with
tasks
ith strong
t
sacrifice
ifi and
d enthusiasm
th i
t
to
help the population working with the Afghan Police, they contributed to setting up a safe and
secure environment for this workshop to be held. My praise also goes to these female students,
who have proved to be valuable people and who Afghanistan can rely on for its future.
July 2010 n°1
My Afghanistan
“WOMEN to be” a progect to give
voice to Afghan women
by Giulia Ligresti
Last February when I left for Afghanistan with the intention of setting up a school for the
children of Herat I was unaware what I would be up against. I realised that the first priority, in
such a country, was to give voice to the women who are still oppressed by the Taliban.
Meeting these women covered by their burka was an extraordinary experience. The thing that
impressed me most was that despite their life under this very heavy piece of clothing – which
allows
ll
them
h
only
l a few
f
i h off light
inches
li h – allll these
h
women are still
ill desperately
d
l trying
i to make
k
themselves heard. This project was inspired by this exchange of glances. "WOMEN to be" is a
monthly magazine on line written by female students.
I would like to show my appreciation and gratitude to prof.
Marco Lombardi from Cattolica University (Milan) who
held this jjournalism course for these same students.
Without these lectures, organized in collaboration with
PRT (Provincial Reconstruction Team), the Fondiaria Sai
Foundation would never have had this important
opportunity. Twenty young female students were
encouraged to speak about the reality of daily life in Herat
focused on the conditions of women.
The first edition of "WOMEN to be" shows the less stereotype Afghanistan which is the result of
the dreams, hopes and creativity of our brand new reporters. We are allowed to enter this
unknown world so different from our own daily lives. I will always be extremely grateful to the
members of PRT and CIMIC who have supported me and above all the Foundation to
contribute to a better future: a future to be.
July 2010 n°1
Press conference with Maria Bashir
JJune 9th 2010
by Soraya Hashemi
My first experience as a journalist was the press conference with Maria Bashir, held in this
course. Ms. Maria Bashir is the chief of the Attorney Department of Herat. She was appointed
to this post five years ago. On that time she was one of the colleagues of the department, but
after she admirably managed to solve a corruption case in Attorney Department the board of
the department decided to choose her as the chief. She was graduated from Law Faculty, Herat
University. She is married and has two children.
At the beginning of the conference she said that it is an honor for her to be among young
journalists and that she is ready to answer all of their questions. She believes that being
questioned by journalists is far more difficult than being questioned by judge in the court.
The first question asked was about the bribery and the corruption.
corruption «The devil of bribes and
corruption are the most terrible and at the same time the most powerful problems we have
had in Afghanistan for too many years», Maria Bashir said.
One of the other trainees asked the secret of her success. She said she does not feel very
successful but the only thing she is sure about is that she has always fought against corruption.
The other question was: «Can high salaries obliterate corruption or bribe?».
bribe?» According to Mrs.
Mrs
Bashir these two phenomena need too many efforts to be completely wiped out, but she said: «I
am sure the most part of it can be solved by higher salaries».
The complaints of Herat prisoners regarding the delay in the trials was the next question asked
by one of the journalists. She was very brave to answer this question she said it is true because
even right now the High Court is still solving the cases from 2009. But she added that this
problem is due to lack of facilities needed for these kind of jobs.
jobs
One of the participants wanted to know about the rate or graph of the violence against women
in the last year in Herat. «Violence graph has unfortunately gone up during the last year,
especially in the district. Inside the town we have also too many cases about this issue but the
most terrible ones are from the districts», Mrs. Bashir said.
July 2010 n°1
Becoming journalists in Herat
New voices for Afghanistan
by Marco Lombardi
Women. Students. Journalists. 3 ways of living which break the usual rules and behaviour in
Afghanistan. One of the first result of our journalism course was that 20 female students armed
with digital cameras realized a series of documentaries to show us another face of Herat:
artisans (pottery, glass, saffron, linen), grandmothers with their grandchildren, young drug addicts,
people
l with
i h disabilities
di bili i being
b i helped.
h l d
Whoever could have imagined that a country, despite the bombs, leads a normal everyday life?
All these reports are similar to our own reality even if some of them may appear distasteful.
Our students, drawing on previous teachings by the Department of Journalism of Herat and by
the training courses by our PRT, have been involved in
representing and “telling” the reality with the spirit of
rebuilding their country. They were not only enthusiastic,
but also self conscious and skilled. In fact the effort
carried out by Fondiaria Sai Foundation and Catholic
University, in a groundbreaking civil and military
cooperation, aims at fostering the emergence of the
woman as a driving force for the Afghan development.
Good journalism is a way to document the reality
through the value of freedom of expression which paves
the ground to a positive destiny. In WOMEN to be, the
vision of these women who, one after the other, will tell
us through words and images this change, materializes. It
is not a dream, but a future scenario that we will develop
together.
Credits: Alessandro Belgiojoso
July 2010 n°1
Free medical service
in Camp Vianini
by Soraya Hashemi
Everybody knows that the number of international forces is increasing more and more in
Afghanistan every day. One of the famous groups of forces is ISAF.
People mostly think that ISAF forces are here just to fight and nothing else. But if one goes
deeply under the skin of the city, it will be clear that these people do more than fighting. One
example of this kind of activities is free medical service that the Italian PRT provides for civilians
every day in their military camp called Camp Vianini.
The medical team visits about 50 patients every day in two shifts. Besides medicine this team
provides some donations for the patients.
Most important is that, they try to provide milk for babies
and essential materials for pregnant and breastfeeding
mothers. Children are treated so kindly there that they feel
free to play or take pictures with the soldiers. There is a
bright look in the eyes of the waiting children. They are the
generation that is going to build the future of our country,
but nobody pays attention to them but foreigners.
The real thing they need now is affection and attention.
Today if they do not receive affection how can they be kind
to the next generation?
August n. 2
In this issue:
Minister for Foreign Affairs F. Frattini - Open letter
LTC. F. Zacchè - Italyy leader in civil-militaryy cooperation
p
Shaheen - Press Conference with Suraya Pakzad
A. Belgiojoso - My experience at the Herat University
W. Ehari - A timeless craft: the carpet making industry
August 2010 n°2
Letter of the Minister for Foreign Affairs
Franco Frattini
Although the military component remains a security requirement for
the present moment, Afghanistan’s stabilisation depends equally on
strong and credible institutions, citizens’ trust in those institutions and
socio-economic development. Indeed, Italy’s intervention in
Afghanistan
Af
h i t is
i distinguished
di ti i h d precisely
i l by
b the
th civilian
i ili componentt off its
it commitment.
it
t The
Th Italian
It li
Development Cooperation has spent over € 414 million (of the approximately € 487 million
approved) on funding major national development programmes that include building and restoring
the Kabul-Bamyan road, national rural development programmes such as the National Solidarity
Programme, national micro-financing programmes in the western region and the Herat PRT
concentrated particularly in the sectors of governance, healthcare and agriculture. We are also
among the
h top donors
d
when
h it
i comes to criteria
i i suchh as ownership,
hi in
i that
h we earmarkk the
h
majority of our resources for national Afghan-run programmes.
We are also on-site with programmes aimed at the defence and enhancement of Afghanistan’s
cultural, historical and archaeological treasures (the ISIAO archaeological mission, ICR restoration
courses, study grants) and in the field of higher education, with partnerships developing between
Italian and Afghan universities.
O civilian
Our
l focus
f
is also
l marked
k d by
b efforts
ff
at promoting private sector relations
l
b
between
Af h
Afghan
and Italian firms, especially in Herat, in areas of mutual interest such as the marble and agrialimentary sectors.
The conditions of women and defence of their rights have always been themes of particular
concern for Italy, and have been even more pressing in the case of Afghanistan, given the Taliban
regime’s terrible discrimination. We have, therefore, sponsored major interventions supporting the
emancipation of women and their right to work and develop a professional identity. These have
ranged from our Professional Training and Women in Business programmes in Kabul, to the
promotion of women-run businesses at the “women’s garden”, also in Kabul, where activities run
the gamut from stone-cutting to building photovoltaic lamps.
We have also made major contributions in the socio-healthcare sector, with the recent opening of
a burn centre at the Esteqlal hospital in Kabul (that treats numerous female victims of acid and
flammable liquid attacks) and the launch of an emergency relief programme for vulnerable
populations in the provinces of Kabul and Baglan, with a special focus on access to basic maternal
and neonatal care.
Italy has also funded a UNIFEM programme set up by the Ministry for Women’s Affairs (MoWA)
to promote gender equality in the provinces, and experts from our Cooperation’s on-site Social
Programme are supplying technical assistance.
W are developing
We
d l i major
j initiatives
i ii i
poised
i d to foreground
f
d themes
h
associated
i d with
i h off women’s
’
rights in the Afghan legal and judiciary system: a) a Masters degree in law at the University of
Perugia for young Afghan lawyers (to date, two female prosecutors have participated); b) a joint
project with the High Judiciary Council of the Committee on Equal Opportunity in support of
Afghan women judges, aimed at fostering true gender equality in the workplace; c) the
establishment of a specialised Unit at the General Prosecutors Office to investigate crimes of
violence against women and ensure application of the related legislation adopted in 2009 thanks
to an Italian Justice Programme contribution; d) support for the newly-constituted Afghan
Independent Bar Association (AIBA) through the National Council of the Italian Forensic Order;
and e) support for NGOs that provide legal assistance to the society’s weaker segments,
women and minors first and foremost.
Chief Prosecutor in Herat Maria Bashir, the first Afghan woman to hold a management position
in a prosecutor’s office, has become a symbol thanks to Italy’s support - a symbol of the struggle
to defend women’s rights and for their emancipation.
A final consideration: we must make the best use of communication. The media’s role in the
process of Afghan stabilisation cannot be underestimated, not only in terms of the importance
of the principle of freedom of expression in the process of democratic consolidation, but also
for the contribution that it can make to the nation’s democratic life by becoming a carrier of
messages of peace and tolerance.
Of crucial importance then is this initiative by the Fondiaria Sai Foundation, which carried out a
masters programme in journalism for 15 Afghan women students from Herat University, in
collaboration with Milan’s Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, the University of Herat, the
Defence Ministry and the PRT. Afghanistan is the shared responsibility and collective
commitment of the entire international community. We therefore need to make a coordinated,
global effort that, alongside the military component, is able to underpin those civil and
economic actions aimed at strengthening institutions, ensuring the protection of fundamental
rights, strengthening the rule of law and reforming justice. We have no other choice if we intend
to offer Afghanistan and the region the key to a future of sustainable peace and stability.
August 2010 n°2
Italy a leader in civil-military cooperation
Back to normal
by LTC. Fabrizio Zacché
The “Allied Joint Doctrine” AJP-01(B) defines CIMIC (civil-military cooperation) as “The
coordination and cooperation, in support of the mission, between the NATO commander and
civil actors, including national population and local authorities, as well as international, national
and non-governmental organisations and agencies”.
Once they are familiar with the customs and habits of the country in which they are to operate,
the military forces can become involved in supporting the civil environment and promoting the
re-establishment of normal living conditions by selectively and temporarily deploying resources
allocated for the specific purpose. Such military activities are the responsibility of the civilmilitary cooperation (CIMIC) operational function. This function has gained significant
i
importance
over the
h last
l decade,
d d particularly
i l l in
i the
h conduct
d
off crisis
i i response operations
i
(
(nonarticle 5 crisis response operations – non-art. 5 CRO), by adopting a broad, inclusive approach
to establish a relationship between the civil and military environments. CIMIC is a key function
for use by commanders to fulfil their mission. The resources deployed and operations
undertaken within the scope of CIMIC must contribute to the achievement of the desired endstate and be consistent with the assets and capabilities of the armed forces.
The basic purpose of CIMIC is to interact with all the civil actors at the appropriate level within
the area of operations in order to accomplish the mission. In the medium and long-term CIMIC
activities must promote and sustain conditions that will contribute to the achievement of
objectives and the implementation of a strategy to enable the gradual handover of responsibility
to local government authorities and the subsequent withdrawal of military forces from the
theatre of action.
In 2002 the Italian armed forces launched the project to set up a multinational joint force
CIMIC command. As the framework nation, Italy is responsible for CIMIC activities within
NATO. The project led to the creation of a regimental division called the Multinational CIMIC
G
Group,
b d in Motta
based
M
d Livenza
di
L
(TV) So
(TV).
S far,
f six nations have
h
signed
d the
h MoU
M U (memorandum
(
d
off
understanding): Italy (framework nation), Greece, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia and Hungary.
The Multinational CIMIC Group has taken part in all the main out-of-area operations involving
the Italian armed forces and is currently deployed to the theatre of operations in Afghanistan
and in Lebanon with specific assets.
August 2010 n°2
Press conference with Suraya Pakzad
by Shaheen
First of all could you tell us something about yourself and your office activities?
“As all of you know, I am the director of the Voice of Women Organization in Herat. There are
about 150 people working in my office the majority are men. There is a lack of skilled women
for our key posts and that is why we fill them with men”.
What is the news about the rate of divorce in Afghanistan?
“There are several reasons why the divorce rate has increased. The first reason is that women
are more aware of their rights and second because some people have a wrong understanding
of democracy and abuse the rights they have”.
What have
Wh
h
you done
d
f women in
for
i general?
l?
“Right now we have some committees in the schools to help the girls to be more aware of
their rights and to solve their problems”.
Can you give some information about the Shelter and the women who live there?
“The shelter, which is a place for homeless women, has the capacity for 42 people. But
sometimes this number increases to 53 or more”.
Do you think this shelter can cause some disruption in the families?
“Of course not. Because we only accept women who are sent by the Court or Women Affairs
Department or women who do not have a place to live after being released from prison”.
What did you do in order to decrease violence against women?
“Violence against women is a problem that has changed during this period. We try to inform
women about their rights and feel that men should also be informed”.
Credits: Alessandro Belgiojoso
August 2010 n°2
My experience at the Herat University
Stories through images
by Alessandro Belgiojoso
Thanks to the project promoted by Cattolica University of Milan in association with Fondiaria
Sai Foundation, I had the privilege of sharing my experience as a photographer with female
Afghan students in a photojournalism course at the Herat University.
The students had the opportunity to put to use the acquired notions and returned to their
everyday life holding a digital camera and - thanks to the fact they were local people - they were
able to take a great number of photos which no outsider could have collected.
All the acquired material is constant proof that there is no one better than them to describe
their world and culture.
This collection of stories is a witness to a culture far
removed from our own but by keeping archaic
customs alive has preserved its traditions.
On one side we have a local artisan making musical
instruments with techniques which were outdated in
our middle ages, on the other side we find one creating
an unobtainable spare part for a fridge, this can teach
us something about our excessive consumerism.
Finally you can meet the owner of a Herat television
shop who admits they only show images of natural
sceneries on the TV screens and avoid news programs
because “bad news does not sell TVs”.
My suggestion is to look at these stories not just as
folklore but as a critical point of view on our
developed world.
Credits: Alessandro Belgiojoso
August 2010 n°2
A timeless craft : the carpet making industry
Skills in women’s
women s hands
by Wheeda Ehari
This profession is one of the popular trades in Afghanistan and some people consider it as part
of the culture of this country. There are different kinds of handmade carpets in Afghanistan
which are very famous in international markets. The most famous carpet design is the Torkmeni
that is made with very delicate designs and beautiful colours. The important point about this
trade is that even during the war carpetmaking continued to be popular and it is still one of the
most valuable trades in the nation.
Torkmeni carpets are the art of the hands of Afghan women. They work hard to do this great
job. The movements of their hands create these amazing designs and this industry which fills the
country with pride.
But who knows these women and how they live?
In the pictures I took you can see a Torkmen family making carpets at their home. These three
women endure all the difficulties they have in their life and continue working.
The first pictures are the workshop and the instruments. Then you can see how they make
carpets and how they weave the designs with the thread. In the end the carpet is finished and
according to the women each one takes three or four months to complete.
A typical working day of three women. Tools and phases of weaving carpets.
September n. 3
In this issue:
Interview with Lt. S. Guberti - by the students of the Journalism Course
M. Urago - Excellent examples of cooperation
M. Hassan - A new life for Nuryia
S. Ahmady - Wool production
G. Ghidoni e M. Afzali - Royah Ethical Design
September 2010 n°3
Press conference with Lt. Guberti
What do you do if you find a female criminal? Do you
release her or put her in prison?
It’s not my job, I don’t arrest anyone, but if I have to do this, I do the
same for a man.
As a woman what is your reason for coming to Afghanistan, and what is your job
here?
I’m a woman but I love my job and I love my country and our task now is to help Afghan people
in order to improve development and to help the government. I am here to do my job because I
love it.
When did you chose to work in the army?
It was a dream for me to work in the army, and when I finished school I was 18 and it was not
allowed by the law. Luckily in 2000 it became possible so I joined the army.
My family and especially my father is proud because of it.
Have you ever killed a man during your missions?
No, I have never killed anybody.
What did you know about Herat and Heratian people before coming to
Afghanistan?
I knew a lot of things about Afghanistan because I had some Afghan friends from Kabul, they
studied with me at the Universityy in Turin.
Do you feel you have lost your femininity working in the army?
No, I think that you can have your femininity and join the army. I am in the army but I am
married and I have a daughter. I think I can be a good mother even if I am a soldier.
What kind of relationship
p do y
you have with Afghan
g
men?
I always try to do my best not to hurt anyone’s sensibility that’s why I wear the veil here, even if
I don’t use it at home. Every Afghan I met until now has respected me, so I haven’t had any
problems.
September 2010 n°3
Excellent examples of cooperation
2 hospitals
p
and a center for women
by Marco Urago
The Children’s Hospital, the Regional Hospital and the Women Social Center are important
examples of civil-military cooperation in Herat.
The 2 health structures, particularly important for the Herat province, have been highly
appreciated both by the Afghan authorities and by the population.
The social center for women would like to be the first step towards a new understanding of
women’s world.
Children’s Hospital
Built by the army in 2007, equipped and supported
by the Italian cooperation through emergency
programs, it is the second children
children’ss hospital in
Afghanistan. The building has 100 beds and the
rate of hospitalization is about 90% and often
more with patients coming from all of the west
region. These patients even come from the city of
Mazar el Sharif that is more than a 7 hours
journey by car. The structure is supported by the
AISPO, an Italian NGO, that has a lot of
experience in organizing hospitals in third world
countries. Italians doctors and nurses are
constantly involved in clinical activities and in
training local employees.
PRT follows this hospital giving constant support in those cases where some interventions can
not be realized with the cooperation funds.
I remember a guesthouse being constructed for families that come from far away and the
recent construction off a new wellll for
f the
h supply
l off water.
Regional Hospital
Thanks to the civil and military commitment our hospital has been restructured and supplied
with new equipment.
Funds from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have enabled the interior reconstruction of 4 wards
(Emergency Unit, Radiology, Laboratory and Operating Theatres) and the purchasing of
hospital equipment necessary to bring the hospital to European standards.
Funds from the Ministry of Defence have been used to construct a new electrical power
connection of about 16 km.
Women Social Center
The final example is about the construction of the first Social Center for women in
Afghanistan. It is a modern construction which is directed by the Department of Women’s
Affairs. The aim is to improve the role of woman in Afghan society. The building, reconstructed
inside and partially equipped by the PRT,
PRT will be sustained by the funds from the Italian
Cooperation.
It will be the first locus where women will be able to meet, work and sell products of their
businesses or NGOs, relax, read books from the library and use internet.
I would like to point out that every project has been requested by the pertaining Department
and approved by the PDC (Provincial Development Committee), presided by the Governor
hi
himself.
lf
September 2010 n°3
A new life for Nuriya
Th importance
The
i
t
off being
b i a policewoman
li
by Massoma Hassan
Nuriya enjoys reading a paper written by herself about the Police Literacy Course in Herat. “I
am able to read and write. I am a literate mother for my children and a literate wife for my
husband and a literate policewoman for society”.
She added, “When I opened for the first time a book and saw some lines that were Alef, Be and
T they
Te,
h were unknown
k
to me but
b now I can read
d and
d write
i them
h
easily”.
il ”
Education was her great expectation since her childhood, but civil war, society and family
restrictions prevented her from going to school. Nuriya never imagined she would be educated
after being a mother of six children.
Nuriya mentioned that it was like being a blind person who could only see shapes and boards in
the streets without understanding them, for example she could not recognize numbers and
words.
d Education
Ed
i was a gift
if for
f her
h that
h only
l God
G d could
ld bring
b i in
i her
h life.
lif
She explained about one particular day when she had gone to the bazaar during the Taliban
Regime. A policeman passed in front of her. She studied him seriously and felt a great emotion in
her heart that started to beat quickly. From that moment Nuriya was motivated to become a
policewoman and the same day she told her husband what had happened.
She was worried in case her husband rejected her
dream but fortunately he encouraged her to join the
police force and to realize her aim and wish. She
said: “It was amazing that my husband and family
encouraged me to join the police force. I couldn’t
wait for that moment”. The next day she joined the
police and started her training. She has been
working as policewoman in the Ingil District for the
last 2 years.
She underlined the fact that joining the police
force brought her the opportunity of
education and she would like to continue
studying. She said: “I thank my husband for
supporting me to carry out my duty well and I
hope to become a good policewoman by
helping my people - especially women”.
She concluded that joining the police changed
her life bringing happiness especially to her social and personal life. She attended the Literacy
Course every day for nine months and graduated from the first level.
She seems very proud of her achievement showing her certificate with much happiness. It has
been the best moment in her life. She said: “Now I feel that I have reached my first aim and will
try to reach the final stages in order to be a General in the future”.
She has earned respect from her neighbours and she is able to help her children with their
homework.
homework
September 2010 n°3
Wool production
F
From
ttradition
diti to
t bbusiness
i
by Sima Ahmadi
The reportage shows the working conditions in a factory in Herat where they clean and
separate sheep wool. There are more than 400 young girls and women, about 600 in all,
employed in cleaning the wool.
They work in a big basement, in dusty and cramped conditions. Breathing properly is a problem.
W l is
Wool
i cleaned
l
d in
i this
hi way and
d is
i exported
d to Europe
E
b big
by
bi traders.
d
In the Herat region, the wool is processed after
cleaning, colours are chosen, and it is made into
yarn to produce cloth.
The price of cloth has remarkably increased
because the price of wool has risen too.
The production of cloth is typical in some regions
of Afghanistan and now Iran, China, Russia, and
Mongolia are cloth producers too.
Wool is also produced in some western parts of
Afghanistan, and Herat city is the most important
wool center in the country - other provinces of
Afghanistan like Badghees, Maimana - also produces
wool. Sometimes wool has been sold in Farah,
Cheghcheran and Kandahar.
According to a recent report carried out in our
country, 7% of the cloth production is exported
worldwide More than 40 cloth factories are
worldwide.
operating in Herat city and 2000 women work in
these factories.
September 2010 n°3
Royah Ethical Design
Af h fashion
Afghan
f hi Italian
It li style
t l
by Masiha Afzali and Gabriella Ghidoni
Royah, the “vision” in Persian, was set up in Kabul in 2005 by a handful of women who wanted
to make a difference. Drawing on Afghanistan’s rich cultural history, Royah creates
contemporary fashion using Afghan textiles and Italian expertise.
Afghanistan remains, as of now, politically unstable and it is ranked amongst the lowest countries
for access to education, security and income. In this scenario, women are a very vulnerable
segment of the population. Women are often neglected as political and economical actors, and
therefore are confined within their households, given the task to raise their children and to
provide housework for the family. Women mostly depend on their husbands or family members
for their living, conducting small income generating activities, embroidery or - in the rural areas
- some farming and agriculture, trading in the neighborhood with other females. Activities that
rarely produce an income over one dollar a day.
The situation has improved over the last few years, particularly in the urban areas. The
International Community, the media presence and a strong will by the Afghan community to
rebuild its country is representing a chance to a better life. However so much has still to be
achieved. Under these circumstances, Royah Ethical Design has founded its vision and work and
develops the skills of a new generation of Afghan women, by convincing them that education, job
security and creativity are necessary steps for producing a positive change in the society and
that they play an important role in striving to achieve this change into their lives, their
communities and their children’s future. In order to be convincing and competitive and at the
same time pprofitable, it is necessaryy that the dress collection is appealing
pp
g and of high
g qquality.
y
However employing women who have had no formation skills is, in itself a social project; the
products of which are reinvested in these women by teaching them a professional skill and thus
enabling them to be economically independent in the future.
Masiha: “When Royah started, there were only 3 of us,
including the founder Gabriella Ghidoni. I met Gabriella during
the ILO ITC WED training program, where I was attending a
course for Business Development. Royah over the years
developed from a pilot project into a cooperative that is
employing today 20 women as seamstresses, embroiderers and
managers and it represents an important opportunity for them
to learn skills, to have financial security and to progress their
status in the society”.
Gabriella: “Being a for profit entity, with no donor
funding at the start, we had to rely heavily on sales.
At the beginning sales were mostly concentrated in
Afghanistan by taking advantage of the numerous
f i
foreigners
i Kabul.
in
K b l Over
O
the
h years, sales
l were also
l
extended to the European market. Royah produces
its own collection by using Afghan textiles in Italian
style. Afghanistan has always been an important
crossroad between East and West and was famous
for its precious silks. Sadly, decades of war
d
destroyed
d the
h country’s
’ ancient
i
embroidery and traditions. One of the main objectives of Royah, is to recover there ancient
embroidery patterns and rediscover their preservation”.
Masiha: “At the beginning I was working for the cooperative. I would never have dreamt that
now,, 5 yyears later,, I am its Program
g
Manager.
g This has changed
g myy life. Everyy dayy I work with
Afghan and foreign women, I handle the others and the production, and I am in touch with our
office in Milan, Arte-fatto Onlus. I attend meetings with counterparts and I have recently started
to follow future projects and ideas with Milan. I am very proud of my work and my family is
very supportive of my choices. I was able to study, likewise my sister who is now a doctor in
Kabul. We don’t neglect the responsibilities in the family, but with my own income I know I can
make my choices
choices”..
The challenge is now to expand capacities, resources and distribution. Royah must rely on
skilled workers although training there women has very high costs (30 years of war and
destruction of the social network of the country have destroyed everything) and a series of
actions aimed
d at improving the
h cooperative.
For this we have been granted a donation by the Regione Lombardia and the Arte-fatto Onlus,
to train an additional 30 women as seamstresses and embroiderers and to promote the Royah
brand on the fashion market. This will allow further opportunities for Royah and the women
who take part in this initiative.
Credits: Marco Valerio Esposito
October n. 4
In this issue:
Women’s Social Centre - by the editorial staff of WOMEN to be
Shanin - The Rebab
M. Hamilton - Afghan Women’s Writing Project
F. Khorsand - Bano Production
M. Salimi - The art of recycling
October 2010 n°4
Women’s Social Centre
A special social service for women - The Women’s Social Centre – has
recently been opened in Herat. In this centre women can carry out
minor entrepreneur activities; take part in professional training courses
and follow social development programmes. Leisure and recreational
activities are also available.
The complex, which is financed by the Ministry of Defence and realized by the Italian Provincial
Reconstruction Team in Heart, has 36 shops, a leisure area with gym equipment, a meeting room
and a consultory. All the furnishings have been supplied by the Italian Cooperation.
This centre is the only reality of its kind in Herat and has been set up for women with
economical and psychological problems due to domestic violence. This all-female project was
developed by Oriana Papais, architect and Reserves Captain, from the PRT women’s affairs team
led by Lieutenant Silvia Guberti and Second Lieutenant psychologist Samantha Barna. As well as
the highest institutional representatives of Herat the following dignitaries were present at the
opening ceremony, Suraya Pakzad, the General Proxy Maria Bashir, and the head of the Women’s
Affairs Manija Sadeq. As Colonel Aresu pointed out in his speech, once again the commitment
of the PRT Italian women has «distinguished itself» in favour of the women in Herat. They have
realized a completely new conceptional structure of its kind.
October 2010 n°4
The Rebab
Uses and dreams through music
by Shanin
Music is one of the most cultural expressions of a country. It transmits the history and soul of
an entire population. The uses, customs, dreams and nightmares of a country are passed down
from one generation to another through music.
The Rebab instrument is used to accompany the traditional Afghan songs: it is a string
instrument, nowadays the base of classical Arabic music such as Persian, Indian and the Mashreq
and Maghreb countries.
This instrument originated in the VIII Century in
Afghanistan and is considered to be the forefather of
the violin.
Artisans make the Rebab from very hard wood which
comes from a fruit tree. The case and handle are the
main parts.
Every Rebab is made up of different parts such as the
cords, the keys and the bow. Traditionally the Rebab
has only 3 or - at the most - 4 cords, but this version
has actually 18 cords.
According to legend, one of the Afghan princes
wanted the instrument to have 18 cords in order to
be louder and hence more powerful.
The making of a Rebab - a local musical instrument.
October 2010 n°4
Bano Production
M Ahmadi’s
Mrs.
Ah di’ jam
j
by Fariha Khorsand
My pictures are about the Jam Factory which is called Bano. This food processing factory is run
by a woman called Maryam Ahmadi in Herat. She set-up the factory 5 years ago and she has
managed to increase production so much that now there are 15 agencies in other districts of
th Herat
the
H t Province.
P i
The workers who are mostly women are very happy and thanks to their salary they can now
help and support their families with the proceeds they earn from making food products.
As we can see from the pictures, they have very simple facilities in the factory, but Afghan
women are able
bl to do
d miracles
i l with
i h even these
h
simple
i l facilities.
f ili i
October 2010 n°4
The art of recycling
Local factotum artisans
by Mojhgan Salimi
It is not easy to find spare-parts in Afghanistan. Sewing machines, work instruments, garden
tools.What can be done?
It is not easy to find “official” spare-parts. They do not come from authorised dealers or official
retailers but from the black market where the material comes from various shady underground
routes in order to avoid the war check-points and the robbers’ greed. It’s impossible to ask
salesmen for a guarantee, many people can not even afford to buy new goods.
There is no choice but to trust the local factotum artisans who can create the missing pieces
with the help of their rudimental tools and a good dose of genius.
There artisans make the spare-parts by melting leftover recycled metal; by mixing soil and water
they make clay for the metal frames which are needed to forge the metal.
This is one of the most ancient crafts in history which has always been adapted in times of need.
By using skill and imagination it is possible to fix, reassemble and adjust every kind of broken
object and bring it back to life.
Local artisans forging, reassembling and adjusting broken objects with rudimentary tools.
October 2010 n°4
Af h Women’s
Afghan
W
’ Writing
W i i Project
P j
A blog for women’s voices
by Masha Hamilton
I first visited Afghanistan in 2004. The U.S. Embassy urged caution, but I felt safe. I visited the
opium poppy fields south of Kandahar, the border city of Jallalabad, the province of Wardak, and
wandered around Kabul. I interviewed women in prison in Kabul and Kandahar, a child bride
steps from a playground to which she longed to return, a war widow living in rubble, the smiling,
elderly
ld l matriarch
i h off an opium-growing
i
i family.
f il
I practiced shiatsu on a group of women who had walked for hours to see a doctor. The stories
I heard spilled one over the other; each night I transcribed my notes until the electricity failed,
so that the next day I could take in more. It was a trip that left me by turns horrified by what
these Afghans had endured, and exhilarated by the strength, grace and humor with which they
had survived.
Wh I returned
When
d to Afghanistan
Af h i
i November
in
N
b 2008,
2008 I found
f
d a country more dangerous
d
f
for
Afghans and outsiders alike, a country where women’s optimism had been replaced by strong
undercurrents of trepidation, unable to go to school or work, forbidden to speak, unable to tell
even their own stories.
I had a kitchen-table idea: in order to give at least some of them the ability to tell their stories, I
would teach a free online class to them for ten weeks or so. But it took only one class for me
to understand that their interest and desire would outstrip my ability to meet it. So in May
2009, the Afghan Women’s Writing Project was founded, and grew quickly from me at my laptop
to three secure online classrooms taught by rotating published novelists and poets, memoirists,
screenwriters and journalists around the country, with an entire volunteer and generous
support team full of their own ideas about how to grow the project, plus financial donations
that have contributed to laptops for our writers and will eventually help create Afghanistan’s
first women-only Internet cafe.
The women who joined us revealed what it is like to be an Afghan woman.
A few of the women’s voices are below, and there are many more pieces on our website. As
many times as I’ve read them, I remain moved and illuminated by these essays and poems. We
offer
ff them
h
in hopes
h
that
h you, too, willll be
b moved,
d and
d willll reachh out to comment, and
d that
h these
h
stories will connect us, American to Afghan, and broaden our understanding of our complex
relationship with Afghanistan and its compelling people.
“In the rainy season of Pakistan, the news of my grandmother’s death made our lives rainier.This
season showed me my father’s tears for the first time”. (Meena)
“Let
Let me cry,
cry my dear friends.
friends Life is more complicated than we thought
thought”. (Elay)
“She laughed very loud and said: No, you’re not a loser. You’re the best. You just have to kill silence…
You have to grab your rights”. (Shogofa)
“Who asks about my identity? I am lost on the pages of history books. Look at my tired face, and the
dried tears in my eyes. My first name is Afghan woman. My last name is Suffer”. (Roya)
Quotations from the blogg Afghan
g
Women’s Writingg Project
j
- www.awwproject.org
p j
g
Photos from: www.mashahamilton.com
November n. 5
In this issue:
K. Figini - Run for Women
D. Gianmaria - It’s never too late
S. Mohammadi - My desire: to be a journalist
S. Mohammadi - Afghan TV
M. Hosseini - From Badghis to Herat
November 2010 n°5
Run for Women
by Katia Figini
In a month I have completed 2 of the 5 stages of my Run For Women project.
I have run hundreds of kilometres across 5 deserts in 5 continents to spotlight the violence
against women.
This extremely hard task is my way of showing that it is possible to carry out even the most
impossible things. Just like all the women who are fighting to defend and support their own
rights. Just like the women in Afghanistan who are try to make themselves heard and to cast a
light on their situation and everyday problems.
The thing that we have in common is in fact “WOMEN to
be”. This is not only the name of the magazine but it is also
a way of being. It means strength, courage and trust and a
better world for women.
I hope
h
t be
to
b able
bl to
t run a symbolic
b li race for
f allll those
th
women who are using their courage and strength to fight
for their own rights in order to live in freedom.
It would be a great honour for me to run in Afghanistan
one day.
November 2010 n°5
It’s never too late
Afghan Educational TV
by Duilio Giammaria
In Afghanistan the radio is still the most common way of communication. Italy understood it and
this is the reason why we decided to promote and support the ERTV (Afghan Educational TV)
project. This project aims to spread news to Afghanistan by giving away a small solar and
dynamo battery powered radio.
The goal of ERTV is “to use technology to inform and
educate the Afghan public and its children on the rights
and responsibilities of citizens in a democracy, and to
equip them with the intellectual tools – literacy, awareness
of scientific, cultural and technical developments – that will
enable them to play their rightful role in rebuilding Afghan
society”.
After the fall of the Taliban regime the building
hosting ERTV was unfit for use because of their
attacks. The Italian Cooperation decided to rebuild it.
In the meanwhile people attended training courses
to become directors, technicians, teachers. In 5 years
the ERTV came back to life.
Nowadays for 7 million students this radio is the
only possibility to be educated.
November 2010 n°5
My desire: to be a journalist
by Saghar Mohammadi
I was born in the early 90’s in a refugee family during the final years of the Soviet Union incursion in
Afghanistan when the majority of Afghans had to leave their beloved Land and immigrate to
neighbouring countries. My mother named me “Saghar” which means goblet: a cup full of joy and
happiness. Our mother says we (my twin sister and I) are her endless cup of joy, luck and happiness. I
was brought
b
ht up and
d educated
d t d abroad
b d as an immigrant.
i
i
t In
I those
th
d
days
th only
the
l vision
i i I had
h d about
b t my
country were the stories and photos my family showed me about the peaceful days they had had in our
home in Afghanistan and the bad days they faced after the Soviet Union invasion like the bombardments
and the continuous raids and attacks which forced us all to abandon our houses. After the victory of the
Mujahedin and the withdrawal of the Soviet Army, my family felt it was time to return home.
Unfortunately our peaceful days didn’t last more than a couple of years when we were forced to
immigrate
g
once again.
g
This time not because of foreign
g armyy raids but because of the Islamic extremists
uprising from inside the country - the Taliban. This regime believes there is no place for women in the
community except indoors, in their own homes, basements and kitchens. They cannot tolerate the idea
of women being educated or even being seen in public. The Taliban interpreted the Holy Islamic laws
and regulations to suit themselves. This time we did not only immigrate to save our own lives and
religion but also to give my sister and myself the opportunity to be educated and raised in a peaceful
environment with no more sleepless nights. After 9/11 attacks we returned to Afghanistan to continue
our education.
d ti
D i school
During
h l we were often
ft asked
k d to
t write
it stories
t i about
b t our wishes
i h and
d goals
l for
f the
th
future and since then I have always written about my desire to be a journalist so as to able to tell the
story of my people to the world and at the same time let my people know that the Taliban doctrines
about women are completely against Islam, liberty and human nature. As well as informing them what is
happening around the world and how we can take advantage of the international experience to
recuperate new structures on damaged houses and mend thousands of broken hearts. In 2005 when I
ggraduated from high
g school, I chose the jjournalism course at the Herat Universityy and in 2006 I enrolled
in the Journalism Dept of Literacy Faculty in Herat University and I am now in the third year.
To implement my earnings from the Faculty and parallel to my education, I have been working in a local
radio station as an announcer and correspondent since 2009. However it is still unusual and rarely
acceptable in my city (Herat) for a woman to work in a local radio station but I want to overcome this
problem and be able to achieve my future desires.
November 2010 n°5
From Badghis to Herat
A 80 year old migrant worker
by Mahnaz Hosseini
This is the life story of an old man from the Province of Badghis. This man came to Herat to
find a job because of the poverty of his Region. He works as a factotum in the Department of
Finance. He starts his day very early in the morning by doing some gardening and feeding the
animals.After a very frugal breakfast he starts to clean the offices.
He prays during his lunch break after he has had a small snack.
His afternoon is taken up with various activities; delivering the post, collecting stationery for the
various offices, making tea and coffee for the employees of the Department.
This man, who is about 80 years old, does all these thing for his family and although his financial
situation is not too good he is never disappointed. He is very optimistic for the future. His
hopes lie in the new generation and he is convinced that they will grow up in a better world
also thanks to his efforts.
efforts
November 2010 n°5
Afghan TV
Not just soap operas
by Saghar Mohammadi
Nowadays, television is a regular guest in most Afghan homes especially in major cities like Herat.
However it is in the countryside, especially the areas where the Taliban are strongest, that the
right to have access to television has been denied. Due to the lack of electricity, coverage and
infrastructure,
and
the
Islamic
integralists
ban
on
watching
TV.
D i the
During
h Taliban
T lib regime
i
the
h very act off buying,
b i selling
lli or even owning
i a TV set at home,
h
was
banned. Often the people kept a TV set in their cellar and secretly watched it behind thick
curtains so the light and the noise of the TV set would not attract attention.
Nowadays there are television stores in every cities where even the latest plasma models can be
found. TV screens have appeared not only in private homes but also in hotels, shops, restaurants,
places of work and even in cars.
Af
After
the
h fall
f ll off the
h Taliban,
T lib many production
d i companies
i have
h
b
been
set up so that
h now there
h
are
over 30 TV channels both local and national, private and public, hundreds of which are accessible
via satellite. Even though the Afghan networks are faced with problems and obstacles not only
from the Taliban but also by other groups of revolutionaries, from warlords and even some
members of the government.
Under these circumstances the Afghan TV producers have to contemplate how they can
overcome these problems and at the same time invent programmes which will attract the local
public. A population who have suffered too much and continue to suffer the consequences of the
war: the prejudices and the violence.
The population need to evade reality through TV soap operas and the very popular Indian films
which are advertised on all the street hoardings in Herat. However these people also want to
learn and discover what is happening elsewhere as Mr. Ehrari - director of a new TV station in
Herat - says «In the past the Afghans only wanted to watch musicals, soap operas and films;
nowadays their tastes have changed, the people want to watch scientific programmes, they want
to know the latest news in Afghanistan and in the rest of the world».
News that shows the terrible war which is devastating our country. Even though everyone
hopes that one day they will be able to switch on their TV sets and not hear about any more
attacks or see violent scenes on the TV news; their dream is finally to be able to live in peace in
a prosperous country.
TV has become part of everyday life in Herat.
December n. 6
In this issue:
Col. A. Inturri - The emancipation of Afghan women
F. Ahmad - Silk production
M. Hassan - What the Afghan Women Network can teach
- Rahima: I am strong now
- Burn victims back to life
December 2010 n°6
The emancipation of Afghan women
by Col.
Col A.
A (mon
(mon.)) tt. ISSMI Antonino Inturri
Since the beginning of the Taliban regime, in 1996, the women’s world
knew the darkest period ever. Woman means dishonour. Woman is an
inferior being who has to disappear under a burqa.Woman is just an er
exhange goods. They have no rights, they are obliged to stay at home and the majority are
victims of violence. The desperation and the will to change drive them to self-immulation. The
only way to stop this physical and psychological pain is to burn themselves. The latest statistics
say there are 8 cases every month of self-immulation just in the Herat Province. Half of these
end in death. If a woman decides to leave her home because of domestic violence she will be
sent to jail for 6 months. If she tries to defend herself by reacting this sentence will be extended
to 16 years.
years Despite this situation signals of change are visible.
visible Women are going back to school
even to Universities. They now occupy important positions in the local Governance. Things are
changing even in jail. This structure, recently built by the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT),
is well organized. The women’s wing has a kindergarten, an ambulatory and a sports ground.
There they learn to read and to write. They also have the possibility to learn a trade like
dressmaking and carpet weaving.
They can continue this profession after they have left jail.
jail They earn 60% of the sales of their
products, the remaining 40% is for the jail expenses. Women are trying to be self-sufficient and
economically independent. There are a lot of projects for women and PRT plays a very
important role. In fact through its Female Engagement Team (FET) it is constantly in touch with
the local Governance, the NGO and local business women. Inside the Women’s Social Centre,
set up in the city of Herat, there are a lot of services for women. Not only shops but also a
consultory where they can have free legal advice.
advice This is just a first step towards a better
condition for Afghan women. If we all collaborate we can reconstruct this beautiful country
together where women are the real core of the new Afghanistan.
Female
F
l E
Engagementt T
Team - PRT XIV:
XIV Ten.
T a. (mon.)
(
) sp RN Francesca
F
Giardulli,
Gi d lli 1° Cap.
C Magg.
M
VFB
Caterina De Marinis, 1° Cap. Magg. VFB Maria Di Fonzo, Cap. Magg. VFP4 Valentina Cappellari.
December 2010 n°6
Silk production
A familyy affair
by Fawzia Ahmad
The Silkworm processing is considered one of the most important profitable industries in the
world. For this reason nowadays it is very strategic for the city of Herat.
The whole process involves several phases, each of which takes time and needs a lot of
professional skills.
Mrs. Tmassoki, one of the activist women in Herat, is the director of the Silk Growing Company.
She has been in this field for a long time and she has the know-how. In fact her family has a very
long experience in this sector.
“Silkworm processing – she said – arrived in Afghanistan about forty years ago from China.
Twenty years ago this trade was very popular but unfortunately due to long periods of war,
drought and economic crises this business has come to a standstill. Today a lot of people have
started up this profession again”.
There are many women and girls who work for Mrs. Tmassoki. They make clothing from the silk
they produce. This trade is very popular in the districts of Herat such as Ghoryan, Guzara, and
Koshk.
Fifty year old Mrs. Tmassoki lost her husband ten years ago. Since then her business has allowed
her to provide for all her family. She works all day long and she even continues working at home.
Her children are also involved in her company.
Different phases of silk production in the Silk Growing company.
December 2010 n°6
What Afghan Women Network can teach
Workshops even for children
by Massoma Hassan
Eleven year old Fariba was rescued in the Herat Burn Hospital after being deeply burnt. She
burnt her body because of mental problems last year. “I still remember those days in the
hospital. I opened my eyes while feeling pain in my body. I saw my parents beside me and looked
at them even though I could not speak” - said Fariba. She was in the first grade at school when
it happened consequently her face has completely changed.
“After getting my health back I looked at myself in the mirror.
My heart beat fast and I saw an ugly and fearful face in the
mirror. It was mine” - she added. She had lost her self esteem
and could not face up to the new situation. The first day of
school after her recovery was very difficult because her
friends did not accept her very well. She was very depressed
and did not want to go to school anymore.
“I felt that my life was over until I found a light in my life”, she
said. She found the Afghan Women Network which works to
support burnt women.
“This was the first time I met such kind people like the
Network personnel and the teachers. I found a little hope in
my heart”. Fariba entered AWN and started her education
once again. “I found new friends and we exchanged our ideas
in the class after lessons”. She mentioned that since entering
the Network she has discovered that there is no difference
between herself and other people. She did not have to be
isolated anymore. She found her self esteem and studied hard.
She became the first in her class in the AWN.
Now Fariba is not afraid of anyone and speaks with self confidence. She loves drawing and
draws everything she has learnt about in her lessons.
Hassina Nikzad - head of the Herat Afghan Women Network - mentioned that Fariba is
extremely
l talented
l
d in drawing
d
and
d can draw
d
everything.
h
Sh willll become
She
b
a good
d artist iff she
h can
continue professionally. Although Fariba is the youngest girl among the burnt women the others
treat her as a normal student. “I wish – she said - to teach other burnt children in the future
and become a qualified teacher.” Fariba’s parents are happy and hopeful for their daughter’s
future. They are very grateful to AWN for supporting her and helping her for her future. Fariba
now is a happy student and has a lot of projects for the future.
December 2010 n°6
Rahima: I am strong now
Dressmaking to improve my children’s
children s life
by Massoma Hassan
This is the happy family of 26 year old Rahima who lives in the Chahar Su Area of Herat. She
survived after self immulation at the age of 11 because of a forced marriage.
Rahima’s father owed his friend a lot of money which he was unable to pay so in place of money
he gave away his daughter. Rahima’s husband was 80 years old and she was a child with no idea
off being
b i a wife.
if The
Th situation
i
i drove
d
h to suicide,
her
i id luckily
l kil the
h Herat
H
B
Burn
H i l saved
Hospital
d her
h life.
lif
Now she is satisfied with her new life and seems hopeful for a bright future. She divorced and
married again. She mentioned that she attended professional courses organized by the Herat
Afghan Women Network which completely changed her life. She was informed about the
Network by another woman. “I can read and write after attending an eight month Literacy
Course and I am now able to identify international numbers and use a cell phone”, said Rahima.
She is now a seamstress and earns money like other
dressmakers. There is no difference between her and
other women. She is a mother of 4 children and sustains
them by dressmaking. She looks like a normal woman and
her face does not show any grief or pain. She is optimistic
for a bright future for her family and her old husband.
“Afghan Women Network rescued me and gave me hope.
Now I do not feel ashamed of myself”, said this young
lady.
Rahima has 3 sons called Gole Aqa, Jan Aqa and Homayun
and a daughter called Maryam. She was proud to
underline that Gole Aqa is studying in the third grade and
Maryam goes to kindergarten.
December 2010 n°6
Burnt victims back to life
by Massoma Hassan
The Herat Burn Hospital takes care of the women who burn themselves as a reaction against
physical and moral constraint. This tragic situation is due to poverty, illiteracy, family struggles,
forced and combined marriages and violence. The Hospital is a modern building with 35 beds
situated in the west zone.
Dr. Aqa Jalali - head of the Burn Hospital - mentioned that recently 2 patients have died and 6
patients are still under treatment. Dr. Jalali is also sustained by some female organizations such as:
Women Affairs Center, Voice of Women and Afghan Women Network. These organizations
provide medicine, food and other necessities.
Hassina Nikzad - head of the Herat Afghan Women Network - explained the importance of
standing by these women after they leave the hospital.
hospital “We
We give them the possibility to attend
literacy and professional courses such as dressmaking, cookery and handicrafts. There are also
workshops to help them become good housewives. Occasionally we support them also
economically by giving food, clothes and professional materials”, said Mrs. Nikzad.
The main aim of the Afghan Women Network is to allow these women to return to a better
daily life but at the same time being more aware of their rights.
rights “We
We had cases of women – she
added – who isolated themselves from their families and the community but after coming to our
association and seeing other burnt women they became more self-confident. In the future
workshops about human rights will be held in the villages and districts and men will also be
invited to participate”. Last year there were around 100 self immulation cases in the west zone,
in the current year around 55. This is an important result because finally there has been a
decrease of self immulation victims.
victims
January n.
n7
In this issue:
S Risi
S.
Ri i - The
Th C
Cesvii organization
i i
M. Hassan - Karate turned Nahid into a heroine
B. Mikovilovich - My third time in Afghanistan
Vidia - Grandmother and grandchild
A Aslami - The saffron industry
A.
January 2011 n°7
The Cesvi organization
by Silvia Risi
Raselah was 24 years old when she decided to apply for a place in our workshop for women in
Herat. Raselah (a fictitious name) got married when she was 12 years old to a much older man
and she had 8 children. She was often left alone when her husband – a drug addict - made
frequent trips to Kandahar to procure opium. She didn’t have any support from her family and
was completely
l l isolated
i l d in
i a country still
ill too hostile
h il to women.
Raselah attended one of our training courses and
she learnt the art of embroidery. This course
represented a great opportunity and gave her hope
for her future. The Cesvi organization has been
dealing with extremely vulnerable individuals in
Herat Province for years. Herat is one of the richest
cities in Afghanistan but its population still has a lot
of social-economical problems and women live on
the fringes of society. Here there is the highest rate of self-immulation a last and desperate act
to escape from such a sad existence. In 2011 Cesvi will continue to support women like Raselah
by creating small social commercial ventures or businesses to enable them to have the chance
to earn a small income for themselves. Furthermore Literacy skills and Business and Marketing
courses will allow these women to develop more sustainable and independent economic
activities. The Cesvi organization is well informed of the difficulties of this project because in
Afghanistan the right to work for a woman is often just theoretical. We are very much aware
that although their past cannot be cancelled they deserve a better future.
January 2011 n°7
Karate turned Nahid into a heroine
Female sport
by Massoma Hassan
“One, two, three” this is Nahid’s voice. 23 year old Nahid Piruz teaches karate to women in the
Aryan club in Herat. She is head of the female sports unit in Herat and she is a heroine in
karate. “I have always wanted to form a karate team for girls” she said. Nahid was born in
Tehran (Iran) and from an early age showed an interest in sports. “My uncle was an expert in
karate and I attended some of his competitions, this encouraged me to follow him in sport”,
added Nahid. Nahid joined a karate class at the age of 10 and demonstrated how good she was
by passing various stages of karate. She continued
to excel and won silver and bronze medals in
several tournaments and competitions in Iran. She
was very good at school too. She trained at home
and her family have always stood by and
supported her even when the neighbours
complained she was making too much noise.
Nahid was the head girl at high school and top
sportswoman.When she returned to Afghanistan,
4 years ago,
ago she wanted to serve her country and since then she has done many things in Herat.
Herat
She started working as head of the Female Sports Unit and also set up the Herat Karate Team.
She hopes to start sports tournaments and competitions so she and her students can compete.
Nahid is an example of a very talented Afghan girl who is trying to prove how good she is. She
has a black belt in karate and has trained over 35 students in this discipline – her technique is
brilliant. Since she returned to Afghanistan, Herat sports have developed more and the numbers
of participants have steadily increased.
increased Although the lack of female clubs and equipment are still
the main challenges in female sports.
She is hoping that families will allow their
daughters to practise sports because although
female sports are now accepted in Herat many
families still impose limitations. Nahid is aware of
health benefits through sport. She hopes to
become a national karate coach in the future and
train Afghan girls.
Lala is one of Nahid
Nahid’ss students, she enjoys karate and is grateful to her coach for showing her
that sport can teach many things and develop her abilities; in fact Nahid is a heroine for Herat
girls and women not only for sport but also in behaviour and self-esteem.
There are now 2 karate clubs - 1 in Herat City and another one in Jibrail in the Ingil district most of the members are students.
There are also 9 active female sports clubs in Herat: bodybuilding, karate, wusho, kung fu and
smaller clubs for volleyball and basketball in schools.
schools
January 2011 n°7
My
y third time in Afghanistan
g
by cap. Beatrice Micovilovich
My third mission in Afghanistan finished in April 2010. I was stationed in the Herat PRT where I
had the privilege of seeing the final results of many projects I had previously only seen in plans.
In fact 64 macro-projects had been completed in 2009 and further investments have been
planned for the future especially in agriculture, government security, education, social
development and welfare.
I also had the opportunity of working with 3 special
women: Suraya Pakzad - executive director of Voice
of Women, Maria Bashir - chief of the Attorney
Department and Manizha Sadiq - head of the
D
Department
t
t off Women’s
W
’ Affaires.
Aff i
Th
These
women are
very cultured and are extremely courageous, they all
have an overwhelming energy and enthusiasm. They
are doing important projects for women in their
country.
One off the
O
h greatest experiences
i
i my life
in
lif was being
b i
able to contribute to the Italian Army with my own
personal professional experience. The Italian Army is
constantly involved in international operations in all
the main crisis zones.
January 2011 n°7
Grandmother and grandchild
A typical
t i l day
d
by Vidia
These photos show a typical day in the life of a widow doing her daily chores such as
housework, cooking, doing the shopping and looking after her grandchild.
The mother of the little girl died during the war and the other men in the family are out
working
ki allll day.
d
January 2011 n°7
The saffron industry
80% of the production is done by women
by Asma Aslami
Women’s skills in the workfield is one of the most international controversial issues. But as a
matter of fact, Afghan women have played an important role in the saffron industry, in fact 80%
of the work is done by women.
According to the World Bank studies, 68% of farm labourers receive very low wages, certainly
not enough to meet their needs. These photos show the various steps of the cultivation,
gathering and dehumidifying process of saffron.
F b
February
n. 8
In this issue:
G. Ligresti - Open letter
Sima - Where there’s a will there’s a way
Nasima - The Herat University Radio Station
Storai - A blacksmith’s shopp
M.Vergani - Back to Herat
February 2011 n°8
Letter of the President of the
Fondiaria Sai Foundation
Gi li Ligresti
Giulia
Li
ti
On 25th February I was very honoured to be present at the opening
cerimony of the WOMEN to be Photo Exhibition in Herat.
The exhibition
Th
hibiti represents
t an important
i
t t result
lt for
f us thanks
th k to
t allll the
th special
i l people
l involved.
i l d
The “Women Journalists” project was set up only in June 2010 but in such a short period many
goals have already been achieved: the on-line magazine WOMEN to be and the Photo Exhibition.
The photos on show were taken by the female students of our journalism course.
I must point out how special these female students are. When I first met them last year I was
very impressed
i
d and
d I was instantly
i
l moved
d by
b their
h i deep
d
eyes. The
Th decision
d i i to support a project
j
involving women was initially inspired by this exchange of glances.
In these months reading our magazine I discovered another face of this beautiful country. These
new reporters have started to show us the beginning of changes and the re-birth of this
important country. The Foundation realized a virtual tour of the exhibition for those who were
unable
bl to participate. Enjoy
E
the
h visit on our web-site:
b
www.fondazionefondiariasai.it.
f d
f d
This was my second stay in Herat but I am sure it will not be the last. Afghanistan is so
fascinating and I feel part of this reality because it has been extremely easy for me to get to
know Afghan people and their culture. At the moment our Foundation has two projects
underway and the results are so positive and stimulating that I feel confident there will be more
initiatives in the near future.
My special thanks go to all the people who have made this possible. I will always be extremely
grateful to the members of PRT and CIMIC who have supported me both in the past and in my
last visit. I would also like to thank the Dean of Herat University, the wonderful students of our
Journalism course and Marco Lombardi with all his staff. I am deeply convinced that cooperation
is the key to building a better future for everyone: a future to be.
February 2011 n°8
Where there
there’ss a will there
there’ss a way
A disabled artist
by Sima
I have chosen to write about an art exhibition because a part of it is dedicated to people with
disabilities. In particular I would like to tell the story of an artist who has been disabled since he
was 18 years old.
He cannot use his hands and feet despite this he has learnt to paint by using his mouth. In this
reportage you can see some off his
hi beautiful
b
if l works
k and
d his
hi way off painting.
i i
You can see the moment when he starts, his partner helping him to paint and the techniques he
adopts.
A lot of people appreciate his art. In the last room of the exhibition there are more works
painted by local people. A lot of Afghans love to paint and to participate in exhibitions, this fact
proves a general interest for art in Afghanistan.
February 2011 n°8
The Herat University Radio Station
How to set up a program
by Nasima
In our University - the University of Herat - we have a radio station available for those who are
studying journalism. In fact all the people in my reportage are students.
The pictures show how a radio program is set up and how the young students select the social
issues to be discussed. The first step is to talk about the daily topic of the program.
The anchormen share ideas about it and decide the program schedule. Finally they are ready to
start. They enter in a special soundproof room from where the program is transmitted. The
speakers talk about different topics and exchange opinions. From their debate usually an
animated discussion takes place.
As you can see in one of the pictures there is a discussion underway.
underway My last photo shows the
anchormen leaving the building after the end of the transmission.
Behind the scenes of a radio trasmission.
February 2011 n°8
A blacksmith’s shop
M th d and
Methods
d tools
t l from
f
the
th pastt
by Storai
The pictures of the reportage show a blacksmith working with old material and machinery.
This old man is working with his children who will one day be the owners of his activity.
They are learning this ancient trade in order to continue their father’s work.
In the workshop there is an ancient machinery to make iron utensils. These traditional methods
and
d tools
l are still
ill in
i use today
d in
i the
h Afghan
Af h industry.
i d
February 2011 n°8
Back to Herat
by Matteo Vergani
December 2010. Back to Afghanistan, amongst the students of Herat University. Once again their
reasons for choosing such a dangerous profession can be seen through their curious and astute
glances. Being a journalist in Afghanistan is extremely risky especially for women.
The second Workshop in Journalism was held by the Cattolica University of Milan - supported by
the Fondiaria Sai Foundation - between December 3rd and 13th at the University of Herat. This
Workshop focused on theories and techniques of visual and audiovisual reportage. The students
learnt how it is possible to tell a story through images. They showed enthusiasm and great
interest. They really want to present a different side of Afghanistan through their eyes.
A daily life in which there is not only poverty and war but also cultural richness and social
relations. These values hopefully will help to change the country towards a peaceful future.
During the workshop the students chose subjects like: the cultivation of saffron, the role of the
media, the health system and the women’s conditions. These stories represent a vibrant and
dynamic country in which people can express their dignity. This is the Afghanistan seen through
women’s eyes.
Credits: Alessandro Belgiojoso
March n. 9
In this issue:
8M
Marchh in
i H
Herat - by
b the
h editorial
d
l staffff off WOMEN to bbe
S. Attaee e R. Zia - Sport: a real victory for women
Mohnaz, Mozghan e Hasina - Personal care beside poverty
N. Hamdard - The media in Herat
Mi h ll Ob
Michelle
Obama premia
i Maria
M i B
Bashir
hi - by
b the
h editorial
di i l staff
ff off WOMEN to be
b
March 2011 n°9
March 8th in Herat
On March 8th for Ladies Day, 1000 Afghan women took part in a ceremony at the Jalaludin
Conference Hall of Herat. An extraordinary event which gives hope to the women of this
country for today and tomorrow. Many messages of encouragement arrived from Afghan
authorities, PRT and the Italian Cooperation.
The success of the demonstration was due to the participation of women from the remote
villages of the Herat Province. Women with or without burqas accompanied by their children
met there to be together, to talk and to exchange opinions. Facing such issues publicly like
discrimination, violence and social isolation is a real conquest.
The day
Th
d continued
i d with
i h the
h inauguration
i
i
off the
h activities
i i i off the
h Women’s
W
’ Social
S i l Center,
C
a
complex realized by the PRT and furnished by the Italian Cooperation. The aim of the Center an example of collaboration between local Institutions, Italian Ministry of Defence and Foreign
Affairs – is to improve the conditions of women’s lives in the Herat Province. A meeting place
full of activities - gym, consultories, conference halls, internet points - and shopping areas to
launch women’s enterprises.
March 2011 n°9
Sport: a real victory for women
Marcial arts in Herat
by Sakhi Attaee and Rooz Zia
This reportage is about a gymnasium where Afghan women practice Karate, Wisho, Taekwondo,
Full Contact and other martial arts. Many people may think that these activities are only for
men, especially in such a country. However they are indeed very popular in Afghanistan
particularly among young women.
M i Khawari
Marzia
Kh
i is
i the
h coachh off the
h gymnasium.
i
Sh is
She
i only
l 17 years old
ld and
d she
h has
h been
b
coaching Full Contact for 2 years. She has already won several medals in competitions both in
Afghanistan and Iran. According to Marzia, the young girls who train in her gymnasium are very
lucky as it is not a general rule for women to practice sport. It must be considered that Afghan
society is still very traditional and that their values are very different from the western world in
fact even practicing sport here is a real victory for women.
Young girls training in a gymnasium in Herat.
March 2011 n°9
Personal care beside poverty
The hardship of a large family
by Mohnaz, Mozghan and Hasina
Poverty, lack of food and insufficient knowledge of the basic rules of hygiene are the cause of
the main illnesses in Afghanistan. Undernourishment and the consequent health problems are
due to the total absence of primary goods and the conditions of poverty in which the
population live. However most families are now beginning to observe the basic rules of
cleanliness both in their homes and in their personal hygiene.
This reportage demonstrates this upsetting reality. The
photos show a family in Herat who are trying to lead a
g
p
p This familyy come
dignified
life despite
their hardships.
from one of the poorest and distant villages in the
province. Nowadays they try to survive on their small
family “business” – a shop which is also their home. An
activity which is not sufficient to maintain 10 people:
parents and 8 children (7 daughters and 1 son).
The mother said that she pays special attention to the health of her family. In fact she pointed
out that for cooking, drinking and washing she only uses uncontaminated water from a well
which is protected from dirt and dust by a slab of cement.
The daily routine of a mother and her children.
March 2011 n°9
The media in Herat
Radio and tv a mirror on society
by Nasima Hamdard
Statistically speaking it can be said that here in Afghanistan – as in the rest of the world – the
radio and TV programs cover various topics such as science, politics, entertainment etc… the
most important stations are State owned. All the programs on National radio and TV deal with
governmental projects, official news and press reviews. All the positive aspects and points of
view of Afghan politics are always transmitted by this channel.
Asia TV is a completely new local TV station, although only recently started broadcasting it is
already popular in Herat because of the wide variety of topics transmitted.
Radio Baran is a very well known local radio broadcasting mainly educational and
entertainment programs.
Radio Faryad has an important social purpose because it reveals – through real stories – the
people’s sufferance and problems. In fact “Faryad” means “to scream”.
Radio Khalid is always on air 24 hours a day. Like Radio Faryad its purpose is to express the
opinions of the population.
Radio Sahar takes its name from a typical Afghan girl’s name and its aim is to give voice to the
world of women. The speakers and journalists are all women and most of the programs allow
them to express their opinions about the part women play in Afghan society and their
consequent role in the local communities.
Radio Zohal has scientific and entertainment programs, it rarely covers political issues.
Herat has a media system like every other city in the world.
A live radio program.
March 2011 n°9
Women of Courage Award 2011
Maria Bashir, Afghan Prosecutor of Herat, received the Women of Courage Awards 2011.
Every year the U.S. State Department gives special awards to 10 women for the important role
they have played in promoting positive changes in their countries.
The U.S. First Lady - Michelle Obama said: “Maria needs our support and she
needs to have her own country
understand how important the work
she is doing is for them. For defending
those who have no legal voice, fighting
corruption, and bringing hope to
women
survivors
of
violence,
disfigurement, and child marriage. If we
women do not accept risks and work,
no changes will happen”.
This award underlines how important Mrs.
Mrs Bashir
Bashir’ss work is for Afghanistan.
Afghanistan She has always
persevered despite many difficulties.
* The photos of the ceremony - March 8th 2011 Washington D.C. - are taken from: www.daylife.com
April n. 10
In this issue:
M. Lombardi - Open letter
C. Parodi - Afghanistan: a hard country for women
F. Khorsand - Fariha’s commitment
A. F. Rizzoli - Heroic girls
O. Honib, S. Mohammadi, S. Ansoory - Violence against women
April 2011 n°10
Letter of Marco Lombardi
A photo exhibition at the University of Herat: not a very common
event under the circumstances, especially when the protagonists are
women. Last February 2010 the success of the 1st year of the
Women Journalists project was celebrated. 20 young students learnt
how to use a digital camera thanks to the journalism course held by the Cattolica University
and the Fondiaria Sai Foundation.
The aim of the course was to enable these young Afghans to reveal their country by showing
us all the various shades of their lives which are so different from our own.
We can weigh up the situation from our first involvement. At the start of our mission we
expected the conditions to be extremely hard but thanks to the Provincial Reconstruction
Team (PRT) they turned out to be less difficult than we had imagined.
There now remains a fully equipped photographic exhibition at the Journalism Department of
the University, including brand new technical instruments for the realization and projection of
video reportage. From the training courses we found young people who had been trained by
our colleagues in Herat.
Herat The students have already been put to test by the media.
media We worked
alongside these young people and taught them how to use tools and instruments in order to
understand western ways, know-how and how to send out high quality reports.
It is always surprising what young people can come up with when they are given the chance
to demonstrate their abilities.
Considering the excellent results achieved we have great expectations for the near future.
future
This year our goal is to lead them to an authentic profession because today they have the
proper skills to do so. In order to realize this we are also planning workshops at the Cattolica
University and stages in some important newspapers in Italy.
April 2011 n°10
Afghanistan: a hard country for women
I have two ppictures in myy mind: our soldiers and
the girls of the Journalism Course
by Cristina Parodi
Afghanistan is not a country for women. It is the only place in the world where women die
before men. You can see very few of them in the streets and those visible are completely covered
by their burqa.
During the Taliban regime the burqa was the rule - it had to be worn by every woman. Nowadays
even if it is not required anymore women feel safer under this garment.
I have only been in Herat for one week and I have two pictures in my mind: our soldiers of the
Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) opening a village school and distributing school material to
the
h boys
b
( h girls
(the
i l and
d the
h female
f
l teacher
h were inside
i id the
h building
b ildi because
b
they
h are not allowed
ll
d
to participate in public events) and the female students of the University of Herat holding the
Journalism Course Certificate. This Course was organized by the Cattolica University and the
Fondiaria Sai Foundation. After these girls had promised me they would fight for women’s rights,
they ran away because of the fear of kidnapping after sunset. Even emancipated women like them
have to go home at a certain time to be safe.
In Afghanistan women can be condemned if they leave their husbands. In the villages where the
Mullah imposes the rules it is normal to find child-brides.
Education and security are the most urgent issues to face in order to give women their right
place in the Afghan society.
It is not possible to make a revolution. Changes have to come slowly and the local traditions
and mentality must be respected. The important work carried out by our soldiers is an
example of this.
There is still a long way to go but luckily there are courageous women like Suraya Pakzad
who are trying to bring positive changes to this country. Suraya Pakzad manages shelters
where women considered “out-laws” can live and be safe. When I asked her why she is doing
all this she simply answered: “Because one day I hope Afghan women can live a normal life:
going out without fear, expressing their opinions and having a key position in the public
institutions. This is the Afghanistan I would like to see”. This is the Afghanistan all of us dream
to see in the future.
Cristina Parodi interviewing a student of the Journalism Course.
Credits: Ada Francesca Rizzoli
April 2011 n°10
Violence against women
How to combat this phenomenon
by Oranous Honib, Saghar Mohammadi and Susan Ansoory
Violence against women is one of the worst problems of our country. This problem has not just
physical consequences but also psychological ones. Mohammed Rafid Sherzai - spokesman of the
Herat Regional Hospital - says:
“Every day at the hospital, there are at least 4 cases of women
who have suffered violence. In order to stop this violence we
have to work in at least three directions: first of all we have to
fight against drug addiction which strongly affects both men
and women, and is often the cause of violence against women.
Secondly we have to develop and support the departments
involved in the field of women’s rights such as the
Department of Women’s Affairs (DOWA). Last but not least,
it is necessary to make women more aware of their own
rights, especially in rural areas”.
Mr. Rahimi, a member of the Human Rights Watch of
the Herat Province,, says
y the main task of the Human
Rights Commission is to inform and educate people
about their rights, the role of the institutions and civil
behaviour. In this sense the religious leaders could also
play a leading role in helping to prevent and decrease
the violence against women: for example, during their
Fridayy pprayers
y
in the mosques,
q , theyy could speak
p
about
the importance of human rights by condemning every
sort of cruelty.
April 2011 n°10
Fariha’s commitment
by Fariha Khorsand
My name is Fariha Khorsand. I was born in 1988 in Kabul, I am the fourth child of a family of
intellectuals. I attended Mehry High School in Herat and now I am in the 4th year of the Faculty
of Journalism at the Herat University.
Journalism has been my favourite subject since I was child. For this reason I decided to choose it
as a profession even though it is very difficult to be a journalist in Afghanistan especially if you
are a woman. I am very determined to reach my aim because it is a way to help Afghan women.
I have been working for the local Radio Mozhda since 2008.
I am a reporter and I am also the author of programs about women. Our goal is to make Afghan
women more aware of their rights.
I also cooperate with several Non Governmental Organizations (NGO). In fact I have realized
36 radio programs about domestic violence for the Civil Society and Human Rights Net. An
organization which works towards decreasing the number of victims of violence.
I think journalism can contribute to bringing a positive change to my Country.
Unfortunately so far,
far working for the radio has been my only possibility.
possibility For this reason I would
like to go abroad for a period to gain further know-how. I sincerely hope I can have this
opportunity.
April 2011 n°10
Heroic girls
Young women who are trying to change their fututre
by Ada Francesca Rizzoli
Today, according to some NGO studies, 90% of Afghan women are victims of domestic violence.
This terrible situation often drives these women to self-immolation: this extreme act is usually
considered the only escape from such sufferance.
Self-immolation is a huge problem especially in rural areas where cultural tradition, poverty and
illiteracy, force women to live like prisoners. In fact they are not allowed to lead a normal life.
Even though they have been victims of violence they cannot tell anyone.
This problem is particularly widespread in the Herat Region where the students of our
Journalism Course live.
live
The workshop they attended is the result of
the partnership between Cattolica University
(Milan) and Fondiaria Sai Foundation. Although
these young girls live in a big city like Herat,
and their lifestyle
y is better than life in the small
country villages, they are still not entirely free.
One day, before leaving the class one of our
students - Sosan - told me: “You are lucky, you
live in a Nation where you are allowed to do
whatever you want”.
The female students never leave the University after 4 p.m. because of the danger of being
kidnapped. These courageous girls are determined to reach their goals. They follow the harsh
rules imposed by Afghan society but at the same time they try to change them. These young
women are the new Afghan generation who want a change. They study to become journalists
and have the possibility of describing their Country through their own words and eyes.
They have proved to be very good by their reportage realized for the on-line magazine
WOMEN to be. The reportage show us a different side of Afghanistan. We can read about a
beautiful Country full of tradition and history but we also read terrible stories such as selfimmolation.
These girls work together with their male colleagues and they do not want to be victims of
violence anymore. They claim their rights. In Afghanistan it is still very dangerous to be a woman
but they have decided to fight for their freedom.They want to have the power of speech again.
Herat, February 25th 2011 - Professor Lombardi and Giulia Ligresti, President of the Fondiaria Sai Foundation,
awarding the certificates of achievement to the students of the Journalism Course.
Credits: Ada Francesca Rizzoli
Mayy n. 11
In this issue:
E. Croci - Historical memories
F. Khorsand, W. Ehary, Z. Mehrjoo - Saffron: red gold
O. Honib - A typical day
O. Honib, S. Mohammadi - HIV plague
Rostami, Saddeqi, Alizay - The voice of young people
May 2011 n°11
Hi
Historical
i l memories
i
by Lt. Elena Croci
“Seven celestial columns [...] They have a beauty that goes beyond the scenic element, linked to the
light and landscape. Up close, each tile, but each flower and each petal of the mosaic, contribute their
brilliant collection. Even the state of ruin this architecture speaks of a golden age. The story has
perhaps forgotten ?[...]”*
Afghanistan is an extremely complex country which has been politically, military and culturally
influenced by two important civilisations - Persian and Indian. Historically the constant raids
from Central Asia have helped to form various tribes of different religions and languages.
The city of Herat, once part of Persia, is in the west of Afghanistan and can be defined as the
crossroads and cradle of many civilisations.
The strong Italian Military presence in the Province of Herat has
introduced a new way of communication which has never been
followed by a military mission before – a way through culture.
This project has developed steadily since 2005,
2005 first of all
through photographs and then scientifically from the remains of
the artistic and cultural heritage in the Italian patrolled area. A
military magazine was published showing photographs and
explaining Afghanistan’s artistic contribution to history.
*Robert Byron, The Road to Oxiana, 1937
Today, 5 years after the reconstruction, a stabilised phase has been reached where the
population is looking for its own identity and a sense of belonging to the new society. This can
be noticed in all the Afghan public venues especially where children are concerned – schools,
h
hospitals
l and
d orphanages
h
are just a few
f off these
h
places.The
l
Th different
d ff
ethnic
h groups: Uzbeki,Turk
U b k T k
Turkmens, Mongolians and Indians immediately catches the eye, all these groups belong to the
same martyred country of Afghanistan which has suffered 30 years of war. The main problem
which emerges nowadays is that after so many years of war the average age of the population is
only around 45 years and the new generation is unaware that they are part of a nation which
has so much ancient history and origins.
The children stare at each other and note the great differences such as the colours of their skin
and features, they do not know and nobody has told them that Afghanistan has always been a
land of mixed races; their roots and history date back to Cyrus, Darius, Alexander Magnus but
all their history books were completely destroyed by the Taliban regime between 2001 and
2003. After a lot of hard work - in collaboration with the Governor of Herat Dr. Daud Shah
Saba - finally a bi
bi-lingual
lingual English/Dari book has been published.
published A book “Made
Made in Herat
Herat” created
and written by me. My goal is to give children the possibility of discovering their past.
This project is part of the reconstruction program which includes new schools and new tools
to give hope and faith to the future generations.
May 2011 n°11
Saffron: red gold
A growing
i sector
t off Afghan
Af h economy
by Fariha Khorsand,Whaeeda Ehary and Zohra Mehrjoo
In Afghanistan saffron is almost as priceless as gold, in fact it is commonly known as “red gold”. It
is a very expensive plant which is highly quoted on the world market, especially in Dubai,
Pakistan, U.S.A. and Europe.
The saffron cultivation does not require much water and only needs basic technology. The
growing seasons are short and the product is easily transported. The soil is usually tilled in
Autumn or Winter.
Nowadays saffron grows in many areas of Afghanistan but in the past it could only be found in
Grians’, a village west of Herat. Since 2003 it is widely diffused and there are also cultivations
around the city.Women are mainly involved in this work which is very hard and badly paid.
May 2011 n°11
A typical day
by Oranous Honib
I am an Afghan reporter and I live in Herat. My dream is to become a successful reporter and to
do this I need to be extremely organized and plan a tight schedule.
My day begins at 5 a.m. when I take ablution and pray. After breakfast I get ready to go to
college where I concentrate on the lessons and assimilate everything we are taught for future
use. After college I go straight to my job in the centre of Herat. I work for a local TV station Maihan TV - in the afternoon, from 1 to 6 p.m. When I finish work I go home and spend some
time with my family and watch the news on TV. After dinner I go to my room and study until 10
p.m. then I work at the computer and relax for an hour before going to bed.
Journalists in Afghanistan face many difficulties especially female reporters, one of the main
issues is the lack of security, other concerns are economic, no qualified work for women and
local traditions which prevent female reporters from doing their work like their foreign
counterparts.
I hope the situation will change in the future and my country will be a safer place for journalists.
As reporters reveal the real problems of society and the population, they are always adverse to
danger and many reporters have lost their lives - I recently witnessed a very traumatic scene
where a journalist was killed, I was horrified and still cannot remove that scene from my mind
indeed I will never forget it. Reporters are helpless and defenceless and unfortunately the
government have always ignored these facts. My greatest ambition is to see the development of
Afghanistan. I want my country to live in peace and become independent like any other country.
Personally speaking I want to become a famous journalist and to be financially independent and
be able to tell the world all about Afghanistan.
g
May 2011 n°11
HIV plague
l
Patients abandoned by institutions
by Oranous Honib and Saghar Mohammadi
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and the ways to become infected are: unsafe sex;
infected mothers can transmit HIV to their children during pregnancy, during delivery and
during breast feeding; sharing syringes and needles which are already infected with HIV; unsafe
blood transfusions. In the Western Region of Afghanistan the number of HIV positive people is
increasing day by day and most of them are injected drug users (IDUs) and drug addicts.
According to Dr. Shahram – the head of the HIV protection programme in the Western region
of Afghanistan - more than 60% of HIV positive people were infected from sharing syringes and
needles and most of them are young.
Mahmood, a man from the Province of Badqis, is HIV positive. He became infected three years
ago during a period of drug addiction in Iran. His life is very sad. He works as a farmer in order
to earn money for treatments for his illness but this is not sufficient. Mahmood really wants to
survive but he is alone with no one to help him and with no support from the organizations.
Why doesn’t our Government pay more attention to these problems?
Mahmood’s mother discovered that her son was HIV positive only 2 years ago and soon after
she tried to help and save him as he is the only man of the family. She desperately tried to raise
money and find support from the organizations and doctors that could help him.
May 2011 n°11
The voice of young people
Youth Voice Radio
by Rostami, Saddeqi and Alizay
Nowadays, Youth Voice Radio – set up for students in 2004 – is the most popular radio station
in Herat with more than 50.000 listeners.
The programs are broadcasted all day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m and are followed both by people at
work and at home.There is a wide variation of programs not only news but also scientific,
educational, social and political ones.
Faizal Karimi – head of the radio planning – is convinced that Youth Voice Radio “is the best
radio station of Herat compared with the other 50 radio stations of the city. One of the
reasons for this success is the employees, the other reason is the choice of programs. The
employees are all young and highly educated students. Despite their young age they realize how
useful this experience is for their future.
future Every week 40 different programs are transmitted and
involve a large audience”.
June/July n. 12
In this issue:
q M. Hafizi - Lack of gy
gymnasium
E. Shafiq,
S. Mohammadi - Buying our freedom
M. Hassan - Times are changing for women
O. Honib - The problem of self-burning
S. Sultani – Broadcasting in Afghanistan
June/July 2011 n°12
Lack of gymnasium
W
Women
can only
l play
l sportt indoors
i d
by Ehsan Shafiq and Maseeh Hafizi
Volleyball, basketball, karate, wisho and taekwondo are the most common sports for women in
Herat. In our city the young girls go to practice sport after schools.
Sima Karimi who has played volleyball and basketball since she was 5
years, said: “We would like to have more support from our families but
sport for women is still a taboo in our society”.
Ab Qaium Jami - the manager of Herat Sport - said: “The main problem for women to practice
sport is the lack of indoor gymnasiums”. For this reason only a few of them can do sport. In
Afghanistan
g
it is still forbidden for women to pplayy sport
p
outdoors.
June/July 2011 n°12
Buying our freedom
A shopping mall for Afghan women
by Saghar Mohammadi
One of the many problems of Afghan women is work because they have to leave the safety of
their homes. This is just one of the limitations they have to respect on account of tradition.
Afghan society is still against the idea of working women. Despite this, women continue their
battle to be part of society. Fortunately after the Taliban Era things have slightly changed.
N
Nowadays
d even ladies
l di can be
b Ministers
Mi i
and
d take
k part in
i society.
i
To date the Women Affairs Department in Herat city has taken huge steps towards this goal.
Unfortunately the situation is different in rural areas and it will take longer to change female
conditions.
One off the
O
h ways the
h Department
D
tries
i to support women is
i to create ideal
id l working
ki conditions
di i
for them, they built a special shopping centre entirely dedicated to and managed by women.
This shopping Mall has 36 shops where women can work safely without being threatened. This
is not only an occasion to work but also a chance to go shopping. Here it is possible for women
and their families to buy bags, carpets and other handcrafts in the safety of the shopping mall.
This shopping centre was opened on March 8th and it is unique in that all the shopkeepers
must be women. Although this shopping mall will be one of the best places for family shopping
there are still a few difficulties to be overcome but this will surely not prevent the shopkeepers
from showing society their efficiency and determination.
June/July 2011 n°12
Times are changing for women
H
Human
Rights
Ri ht Commission
C
i i iis doing
d i an important
i
t t job
j b
by Massoma Hassan
“Women refer to the Human Rights Commission more than ever. This is our biggest success” so
said Mrs. Suraya Daqiqi - Head of the Human Rights Women Affairs Department. The
Commission is located in the west zone of Herat.
Mrs. Daqiqi
M
D i i also
l said
id that
h nowadays
d
women are more aware off their
h i rights
i h than
h before.
b f
“E
“Every
day our Department has to face at least 5 new cases which also involve women from other
provinces: Farah, Badghis and Nimruz.”
Her office is the place where women and their families come for help and advice. “When there
is a family problem both sides are consulted and if possible reconciled. Otherwise lawyers give
the
h women free
f
l l advice
legal
d i and
d help
h l them
h
i defending
in
d f di their
h i rights.”
i h ”
Since 2003 Afghan women tried hard to introduce a law against violence. This law was finally
passed by Parliament and now it is part of the Legal System.
The Department has workshops for women which include women’s rights. In some districts and
villages there are also reading and writing courses for women.
The Department personnel go to villages and speak to the women about their rights. They give
them advice on how to solve their problems.
As a result of the excellent work carried out by this Department and through the media most of
the women are now aware of their rights.
Suraya Daqiqi receiving two women in her office.
June/July 2011 n°12
The problem of self-burning
The hidden truth
by Oranous Honib
Last year in the Province of Herat there have been 88 cases of self-immolation: 4 men and 84
women. About 60% of these cases are women living in the countryside; 25% are women from
other neighbouring provinces and only 15% are from Herat.
Unfortunately last year the cases of self burning increased by about 30%. Dr. Jalali, a doctor at
the Burn Center of Herat, says: «The majority of women who come to our Centre hide
themselves, when we ask them what happened or how they burnt themselves they usually tell us
that it was an accident, not a self-immolation». Family problems often force women to hide the
truth because of unlawful social traditions.
Before sending them to the hospital the family members may force
p theyy
the women to lie. That is whyy when women arrive at the hospital
often invent a story so their families are not to blame.
One example is Fatima: we interviewed her in the Burn Center. She
said: «I burnt myself by accident. We don’t have electricity at home
and so we use lanterns. While I was putting fuel into the lantern, it
spilt on the carpet and caught fire and suddenly the flames spread all
over my arm and legs. I went into the yard and started shouting: “Save
Save
me! Save me!”. I tried to take off my clothes but the fire had already
burnt me».
Another example is Amena who said: «I am a widow. I burnt myself by accident with the gas.
While I was at the gas station refilling my car the gas overflowed and a huge flame encircled
me. 50% of my body was burnt». When we asked Amena about her family situation, she said
she had no problems with her family, “I am very happy with my mother-in-law and my father-inlaw, they are like my parents. What happened to me was just an accident». The mother-in-law
was sitting there, beside the bed, listening to our conversation.
June/July 2011 n°12
Broadcasting in Afghanistan
by Shaheen Sultani
One of the basic duties of the media is to deliver information to the public. The media have
both a positive and a negative effect on society. Their role is particularly important when they
have a deep understanding of the social problems and know exactly the needs of their
surroundings. According to Miss Susan Ansari - a young female radio journalist working in Herat
City - the media should be more involved in society because they have a deeper knowledge of
their country’s needs, they should be more involved in society. Unfortunately in Afghanistan
neither Private or State owned media know what their main mission is or what their
responsibilities consist of. The Radio and TV often misinterpret the reality because of the
scarcity of freelance professional journalists and the lack of true social commitments. In society
the media generally broadcast the latest news and economic, scientific, political programs,
unfortunately we do not see this system in Afghanistan.
Afghanistan
ABOUT THE
CONTRIBUTORS
Italian contributors
Alessandro Belgiojoso
Gabriella Ghidoni
Professional photographer
who is aware of social issues.
He is particularly involved in
the concept in boundary.
Psychologist Chairman of
Arte-fatto Onlus. She set
up the Royah Design project.
www.alessandrobelgiojoso.com
www.royah.org - www.arte-fatto.org
Elena Croci
Silvia Guberti
Lieutenaunt of the Italian Army
(Reserve). An expert in cultural
communication especially in
artistic heritage.
Italian Army Lieutenant (Brigata
Taurinense - Fossano).
She was in service in Herat
during PRT – XIII.
www.comunicazioneculturale.it
Katia Figini
Antonino Inturri
Trial runner. The only woman
who crossed 5 deserts in less
than a year in extreme conditions.
Italian Army Colonel.
Commandant in Chief of the 3rd
Regiment of Brigata Julia (Artiglieria
di montagna). Commander in Chief
of Herat PRT – XIV.
www.xcorsi.eu
Franco Frattini
Masha Hamilton
Deputy. Minister for Foreign Affairs
from May 2008 to November 2011.
He has already been in charge of this
Ministry from 2002 to 2004 before
being Co-Chairman of European
Commission.
American journalist and author of
four best-sellers. She founded two
world literacy projects. One is for
Afghan women: Afghan Women
Women’ss
Writing Project.
www.mashiahamilton.com
Duillio Giammaria
Ignazio La Russa
Journalist and writer. Foreign
correspondent
d
for
f RAI.
RAI Author
A h
of various reports on central Asia
and Afghanistan which have won
several international awards.
Deputy. Minister of Defence from
M 2008 to November
May
N
b 2011.
2011
Since 2009 national coordinator of
the Italian Party Popolo delle Libertà.
Criminal lawyer. He is married
and has three children.
Giulia Ligresti
Ada Francesca Rizzoli
Chairman of Premafin Holding.
Co-Chairman of Fondiaria Sai.
Ch i
Chairman
off FFondiaria
di i SSaii
Foundation. She is married and
has three children.
www.fondazionefondiariasai.it
Anthropologist and freelance
photographer.
Marco Lombardi
Marco Urago
Sociology Professor at the
Cattolica University of Milan.
He is charge of the University
projects for Afghanistan.
He is in charge of the Afghanistan
projects for the Italian Cooperation.
www.unicattolica.it
www.cooperazioneallosviluppo.esteri.it
Beatrice Micovilovich
Matteo Vergani
Architect for the Municipality
of Trieste. Italian Army Captain
(Reserve). She participated
in one mission in Iraq and
three in Afghanistan.
Sociologist and assistant lecturer
for the Cattolica University of
Milan.
Cristina Parodi
Fabrizio Zacchè
Journalist. Famous breaking news
(Tg5) anchorwoman. For 9 years
she hosted Verissimo a popular
entertainment program. She is
married and has three children.
Italian Army Lieutenant-Colonel.
He lead the CIMIC part of PRT- XII.
Silvia Risi
She has represented
p
the CESVI
Organization in Afghanistan for 2
years. Now she covers the same
role in Haiti.
www.cesvi.org
Afghan contributors
*
Masiha Afzali
Age: *
Education: *
Current occupation:*
“My name is Masiha. I was born in Jalalabad. My family fled to Pakistan when I was very young.
I lived first in the refugees’ camps near Peshawar before gradually integrating in the country with
thousands of other refugees.
My family and I returned in Afghanistan after 2002”.
*
Fawzia Ahmad
Age: *
Education: graduated in Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: I work for Radio Sahar
“My name is Fawzia. I graduated from the Faculty of Journalism at the University of Herati n 2005.
Since then I have been working in Radio Sahar which is a radio for women.
But I have also done other activities in several radios such as Radio Vatandar and I am a meber of an
international association
association”.
*
Sima Ahmady
Age: 37 years old
Education: graduated in Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: Deputy Director at Radio Sahar
“I was born in Herat. I studied in Afghanistan for 11 years before the war broke out and the Taliban
started ruling. I moved to Iran for 5 years. After the fall of the Taliban I entered the Facolty of
Journalism and I graduated in 2005. Since then I have been working for Radio Sahar. Now I am the
Deputy Director of this Radio and I am involved in programs concerning social issues
issues”..
* For cultural and privacy reasons it has been impossible to supply more personal details and photographs.
*
Asma Aslami
Age:20
Età:
20anni
years old
Education:
of Journalism
at the University
of Herat
Istruzione: student
studentessa
di Giornalismo
all’Università
di Herat
Current
occupation: *lavoro per la stazione radiofonica Radio Sahar
Attuale occupazione:
“My name is Asma and I am 20 years old.
I study Journalism at the University of Herat.
I know English and a little German”.
*
Whaeeda Ehari
Age: 23 years old
Education: student of Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: part-time employee in a radio station
“My name is Whaeeda. I was born in Herat 23 years ago. I finished my studies in High School and
after passing the entry exam I began the Journalism Faculty of the Herat University. I work part-time
for Radio Youth Voice which belongs to the University Radio Sahar. I have also taught in a private
school. I feel I am a succesful woman”.
Nasima Hamdard
*
Age: 22 years old
Education: student of Journalism of the University of Herat
Current occupation: speaker for Youth Voice Radio and Radio Zohal
“My name is Nasima. I am a student of Journalism at the Herat University. I entered the workshop in
photo-journalism of the NGO Iwpr.
In 2010 I begun to collaborate with the on-line magazine WOMEN to be. My first article and
reportage was about one of the radio I am working for: Radio Youth Voice”.
* For cultural and privacy reasons it has been impossible to supply more personal details and photographs.
Soraiya Hashemi
*
Age: 23 years old
A
ld
Education: graduated in English Literature at Herat University
Current occupation: interpreter at the Italian PRT di Herat
“Before starting to work I knew nothing about people’s real life in Herat. Thanks to the PRT work in
Herat I now have a clear idea about lifestyle in my city. Knowing more and more about the real life
inspired me to share with others what I have seen and learnt. Now thanks to the Journalism Course
I am ready to show my Country to the rest of the world
world”..
*
Massoma Hassan
Age: 29 years old
Education: graduated in Literature at the University of Herat
Current occupation: journalist
“I am Massoma Hassan and I was born on the 1st of January 1981 in Oruzgan province. I graduated
in Literature at the University of Herat in 2005. I started teaching in the same faculty in 2006 and
then I entered the Sada-e Azadi newspapar in December 2006. After that I have been working as a
journalist at the Voice of Freedom that is published by ISAF”.
Oranous Honib
Age:**
A
Education: junior student of Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: journalist for Maihan TV
“My day begins at 5 a.m. when I take ablution and pray. After breakfast I get ready to go college and
then I go straight to my job in the centre of Herat. I work for a local TV station - Maihan TV. My
greatest ambition is to see the development of Afghanistan. I want my country to live in peace.
Personally speaking I want to be a famous journalist and to be financially independent”.
* For cultural and privacy reasons it has been impossible to supply more personal details and photographs.
Fariha Khorsand
Age: 22 years old
Education: junior student of Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: part-time employed in a radio station
“I was born in Kabul in 1986 and finished my studies in primary school in Kabul and attended high
school in Heart before starting University. I also have a part time job in Radio Mojhde. I have been
appointed as producer for a special program for women. I take an active part in human rights in
particular those concerning women, so I am in touch with some female NGOs in Herat”.
Saghar Mohammadi
Age: 21 years old
Education: student of Journalism of the University of Herat
Current occupation: speaker and correspondent in a local radio station
“My name is Saghar. In 2005 when I graduated from high school, I chose the Faculty of Journalism at
the Herat University and in 2006 I enrolled in the Journalism Dept of Literacy Faculty and I am now
in the third year. To implement my earnings from the Faculty and parallel to my education, I have
been working in a local radio station as an announcer and correspondent since 2009”.
*
Mojhgan Salimi
Age: 26 years old
Education: student of Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: employed at Youth Voice Radio
“My name is Mojhgan and I was born in 1984 in the Herat Province. After High School I studied
Journalism at Herat University. Since then I have done several part time jobs and at the moment I
work at Youth Voice Radio. I know English and I am also familiar with five computer programs like,
Windows, MS Word, MS. Excel, Power Point and Internet ”.
* For cultural and privacy reasons it has been impossible to supply more personal details and photographs.
Shaheen Poya
Age: 23 years old
Education: student of Journalism at the University of Herat
Current occupation: *
“My name is Shaheen and I am 23. I am a student at Herat University. In 2010, in addition to my
regular courses, I had the opportunity to attend a special workshop in photo journalism. After
which I began to collaborate with the on-line magazine WOMEN to be. My first contribution was an
interview with Maria Bashir, a woman I admire very much”.
Alizay, Susan Ansoory, Sakhi Attae, Maseeh Hafizi, Hasina, Mahnaz Hosseini
* Mozghan, Rostami, Saddeqi, Ehsan Shafiq, Shanin, Sima, Storai
Zohra Mehrrjoo,
Sultani,Vidia, Rooz Zia *.
*
* For cultural and privacy reasons it has been impossible to supply more personal details and photographs.
Credits: Ada Francesca Rizzoli
“I arrived in Herat convinced we would build
schools but I realized the real priority was to
give voice to the women. No woman is free
whilst others are not ”.
Giulia Ligresti
www.womentobe.org
Project of the Fondiaria Sai Foundation
in partnership with Cattolica University of Milan