BAHARİN LEHİB

Kabul- The Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan (RAWA) was founded in Afghanistan in 1977 to be the voices of Afghan women and to fight for their rights. Since its foundation, the association has carried out activities to support poor and oppressed women and to empower women’s political participation. The RAWA is now known all around the world as an independent political and social organization of Afghan women.

Secret schools for women

Against the misogynous and chauvinist policies of the Taliban, the RAWA has become the umbrella organization for women’s political struggle. The RAWA also created secret schools, orphanages, nursing courses, and handicraft centers for women and girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan. In addition, the organization has made the inhuman practices of the Taliban heard all around the world. NuJINHA spoke to Yasmin Nawabi, member of the RAWA, about the activities of the organization. 

Courses for women

Stating that their main aim is to support women, Yasmin Nawabi said, “Previously, RAWA opened literacy courses for women in remote areas of Afghanistan. After the Taliban took control of the country again, women and girls have been barred from school. Therefore, we have launched an initiative to organize science courses at home. We have also organized some training courses without using our organization’s name.”

‘We plant hope’

She added, “The aim of the courses is not only to teach science or English but also to build better relationships with people, particularly with women. Young girls do not have hope now. By organizing these courses, we aim to plant hope in their hearts and brains.”

Speaking about the political activities held by the RAWA, she said, “The members of the RAWA have reading groups; they discuss the political situation in the country when they gather. We also carry out activities on March 8, International Women's Day, on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and on March 21, Newrow Fest. We have also participated in the anti-Taliban protests and marches.”

‘It serves people in different areas’

Speaking about social activities of the RAWA, Yasmin Nawabi said that the RAWA serves and supports women and children living in different parts of the country, “We support poor people across the country.”

They participated in international conferences

The members of the RAWA also participate in international conferences to be the voices of Afghan women. “Our members attended the 3rd World Women's Conference of Grassroots Women that took place in Tunisia and the 2nd International Conference of the Network Women Weaving the Future that took place in Berlin.”