Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, is based in Austria and continues to fight for women’s rights against the Taliban. She remains defiant despite attempts to dismiss her, has established a clandestine educational network for girls, and garnered attention through the documentary “The Last Ambassador,” which chronicles her advocacy. Bakhtari’s efforts highlight the significance of international resistance against oppression and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in Afghanistan.
Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, is currently based in Austria, where she continues her relentless advocacy for women’s rights against the Taliban regime. Hours before the fall of Kabul on August 15, 2021, Bakhtari sought assurances from the Afghan Foreign Minister regarding the stability of the government, to which he confidently responded. However, following the Taliban’s swift takeover, Bakhtari remained at her post, refusing to resign despite the Taliban’s attempts to dismiss her.
In March 2023, Bakhtari received acclaim at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival for the documentary “The Last Ambassador,” which chronicles her journey and highlights her fight against the oppressive regime. Under her diplomatic mantle, she campaigns against international recognition of the Taliban and has established a clandestine network to educate girls barred from schooling.
Amidst the legal turmoil following the Taliban’s rise to power, Bakhtari steadfastly maintains that she represents the Afghan people while questioning the legitimacy of the Taliban’s authority. Her refusal to comply with a directive relieving her of duties underscores her commitment to the Afghan populace and their struggle for representation.
The Afghan embassy in Vienna faced significant challenges after the takeover, including loss of funds and personnel. Maintaining the mission’s operations, Bakhtari relocated the embassy and initiated educational programs for girls in Afghanistan. In April 2023, she organized a summit in Vienna, uniting Afghan factions in a collective resistance effort.
Bakhtari has received accolades for her endeavors, including the White Ribbon Award conferred by the OECD for her advocacy. Despite ongoing threats from Taliban supporters and difficulties regarding embassy recognition, she remains hopeful about the future, asserting that the Taliban’s control cannot persist indefinitely.
She reflects on the journey of resistance and the importance of her father’s encouragement to pursue justice, noting that real peace encompasses justice and equality. The documentary delves into the complexities surrounding the Taliban’s return to power and the overlooked implications for women’s rights during the peace negotiations, emphasizing Bakhtari’s role as a vocal opponent to oppression.
The film captures nearly three years of Bakhtari’s advocacy work while illustrating her vision as a beacon of hope for Afghan women and girls. Her dedication exemplifies the ongoing fight against oppression and the quest for justice in Afghanistan.
Manizha Bakhtari’s story exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of systemic oppression. As Afghanistan’s last female ambassador, she continues to advocate for women’s rights while representing her country in Austria. Through creative means, such as the documentary “The Last Ambassador,” Bakhtari raises awareness about the struggles faced by Afghan women. Her ongoing efforts underscore the significance of international engagement and the necessity of preserving educational opportunities for girls, even amidst adversity. Bakhtari’s unwavering conviction serves as an inspiration for the global fight for justice and equality.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
