Afghanistan’s Last Female Ambassador Advocates for Women’s Rights from Austria
Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, fights for women’s rights from Austria against the Taliban regime. She continues her diplomatic mission despite threats, has established clandestine education initiatives for girls, and received accolades for her activism, including a documentary that chronicles her efforts and resilience against oppression.
Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s Ambassador to Austria, is actively challenging the Taliban and advocating for women’s rights in her homeland. As the last female ambassador representing Afghanistan, she has remained in Vienna post the Taliban takeover, continuing to fight against oppression. Bakhtari’s journey began just before Kabul fell when she sought reassurance from Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, only to find herself representing her nation amidst turmoil.
Recently, Bakhtari received a standing ovation at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival for “The Last Ambassador,” directed by Natalie Halla. This 80-minute documentary chronicles her efforts to resist the Taliban on an international platform and establish clandestine education for girls barred from schools. Halla emphasizes Bakhtari’s enduring role as Afghanistan’s envoy, despite Taliban resistance.
The Taliban’s seizure of power in 2021 placed Afghan diplomats in a precarious legal situation, with some complying with the regime while others opposed it. Bakhtari stands out as a notable defiant figure, rejecting a letter that dismissed her from her duties. She firmly believes that her resignation would only occur with international recognition of the Taliban.
Prior to the Taliban’s return, Bakhtari’s embassy in Vienna was like any other diplomatic mission. However, following her defiance, the embassy faced financial difficulties and staff reduction. In response to the Taliban’s promises regarding women, Bakhtari highlights the stark contrast between public proclamations and the reality of women’s rights violations on the ground.
In the wake of the Taliban takeover, Bakhtari relocated the embassy to a more affordable house in Vienna and used consular services revenue to sustain operations. She also initiated a campaign called Dukhtaran to offer covert education for girls. In April 2023, she organized the Vienna Conference to unite Afghan representatives in resistive efforts against the Taliban, thereby increasing her profile as a key activist.
Despite Taliban backlash and threats, Bakhtari’s determination has not waned. In July 2022, she was awarded the White Ribbon Award for her uncompromising work defending women’s rights in Afghanistan. Bakhtari remains hopeful about the future of her country, asserting, “Our efforts have prevented international recognition of the Taliban regime.”
The documentary highlights Bakhtari’s personal backstory, including her father’s affection for her, symbolizing resilience against oppression. The film also critiques international entities, particularly the United States, for their role in enabling the Taliban’s resurgence while neglecting women’s rights. It aims to underline the importance of maintaining embassies as platforms for resistance.
Manizha Bakhtari exemplifies determination amidst adversity, as she continues to represent Afghanistan and advocate for women’s rights in opposition to the Taliban. Despite facing significant challenges and threats, she remains a formidable voice against oppression. Her efforts have drawn international attention, not only to her plight but also to the broader struggle for women’s rights in Afghanistan, underscoring the necessity of resilience and advocacy in the face of tyranny.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
