Women's eNews (https://womensenews.org/tag/the-world/)
Former first lady Nancy Reagan died over the weekend at the age of 94. Of course anyone who grew up stateside during the Reagan administration will never forget her anti-drug campaign with its catchy slogan, “Just Say No!”
Her far-right party is well known for its anti-immigrant, nationalist message. In a country that serves as a beacon for abortion rights, she is also challenging that part of the status quo.
“I am right now like a prisoner in my own country,” says a young woman who can’t get a passport and doesn’t have hope to study abroad because her father isn’t available to confer his citizenship on her. Nepal joins 27 countries with “dependent nationality” laws.
“It is always a win-win situation when you resolve conflicts through diplomacy,” says Sussan Tahmasebi, a founder of a grassroots effort to broaden awareness of Iranian women’s rights. “We need to have stability in the Middle East and the region and I think this deal will help with that stability.”
During chaotic, makeshift times, women throughout Kathmandu are playing key roles in holding their families and society together. “She always tells us not to be afraid and keeps a close watch on us especially at night,” says the 14-year-old daughter of one woman.
During a recent trip to Kathmandu, Iris Gonzales photographed the myriad ways women are playing a significant role in the difficult process of rebuilding. Here is a sampling of what she saw.
Facing a culture of bribery and constant threats on herself and her family, Jamila Afghani looks back on more than five years of helping religious leaders in Afghanistan preach to women in a gender-respectful way. And she worries about her country becoming a “second Iraq.”
Mary Jane Veloso, a migrant worker, was saved by a last-ditch effort by the Philippine government. Eight others convicted of nonviolent drug offenses were killed by firing squad, drawing global condemnation from rights advocates.
Afghan women carried her coffin on their own shoulders during the funeral procession. Our heartbreak is taking us into the streets. We have always believed in the larger society of Afghanistan and we will show it with our grief and outrage.
India’s female shortage, say activists, makes the country more dangerous for women. In an effort to raise awareness of female feticide, 100 bikers pedaled 50 miles on Sunday.