On International Women’s Day we highlight the stories of women speaking out for peace and justice around the world.

IRAN

“We are Overwhelmed by Despair”

One woman’s account of the “intense anxiety” of life under heavy bombardment in Tehran.

“The City Feels Terrifying”

The question that occupies all our minds is: what is going to happen?

“Why Did Iran Come to This Point?”

Sometimes I think how good it is that my husband passed away last year and did not live to see this.

“Armed Officers Are Everywhere”

Even in this situation, we still hope for a bright and free future for Iran.

SYRIA

Be Exceptional, or Be Invisible

In Syria as elsewhere, women are granted dignity selectively.

IRAQ

Mothers, Medics, Entrepreneurs: The New Face of Mosul

Economic empowerment fuels a new chapter for women in a city once ravaged by war.

Ukraine

“My Only Goal Was to Survive”

One woman’s experience of enduring Russian captivity and pursuing her abuser through the courts.

Turkey

Plaiting As Protest

Women’s willingness to alter their hair in solidarity with those suffering violence is “an alternative method of writing history”.

MIDDLE EAST

“How Can There Be Peace Without Us?”

Conflict creates catastrophic, gender-specific crises, with women from minorities even worse impacted.

KAZAKHSTAN

“I Was Treated Like Property”

Civil society campaigns for a clear legal definition of sexual harassment that would allow abusers to be held accountable.

Why I’m Angry On International Women’s Day

Beyond the panels, hashtags, and polished statements, the lives of frontline activist are at risk.

 

CAPTION: Ukrainian prosecutors report that young journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna's remains, returned from Russian captivity, bore evident signs of torture before her death. © Viktoriia Roshchyna/Facebook