Hannah Neumann, a European Parliament member, revealed on Thursday that three Afghan education rights activists have been nominated for the esteemed 2023 Sakharov Prize.
Neumann, a European Parliament member, stated that these education activists organize underground schools, travel to remote areas, and manage remote education programs.
Neumann, along with over 50 other members of the European Parliament, has decided to nominate three Afghan education activists for the 2023 Sakharov Prize.
The European Parliament member added that many education activists resist the attacks by the Taliban administration on education.
Referring to this year’s Sakharov Prize nominees’ activities, Hannah Neumann mentioned that they are founders of underground schools and remote education programs, continuing their efforts to provide children access to education.
According to this member of the European Parliament, Parasto Hakim, the founder of underground schools, is now organizing an organization called SARK from exile, and Marzia Amiri manages underground schools and online courses after escaping from Afghanistan.
Matiullah Wesa, who has been organizing educational initiatives in remote Afghan regions for years, has been detained by the Taliban for the past five months due to his advocacy for children’s education.
The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, presented by the European Parliament, recognizes individuals and groups committed to defending human rights and freedom of thought. Notably, education activist Malala Yousafzai is among the distinguished recipients of this award.
Established in 1988, the Sakharov Prize has been honouring individuals and organizations for 35 years who champion human rights and fundamental freedoms.
