A prestigious Magnitsky “Outstanding Journalist Award” has been presented to Rukhshana Media’s founder and editor-in-chief Zahra Joya in recognition of her dedication to telling the stories of Afghan women and justice.
Ms Joya addressed more than 300 participants at the awards ceremony in London on November 14, emphasizing that the award represents the broader challenges faced by human rights defenders around the world.
“This is not just a personal honor. It represents the struggles, sacrifices, and obstacles faced by human rights defenders worldwide,” she said.
She highlighted the dire situation facing women under Taliban rule and reflected on the personal toll its also taken on her.
“Under Taliban control, women face two harsh choices: they can either accept strict laws that take away their identity and freedom or live with the constant risk of danger.
“I cannot accept such limits. I cannot watch the world from behind a burqa or live a life of silence and fear. Instead, I chose a third path—a path that brought me to London, which I now consider my second home.
“I still remember those days filled with fear and anxiety – the day I left Kabul with my siblings, likely the biggest decision of my life. It was the day I left behind my parents, my home, and my country,” she said.
Ms Joya noted how the fight to create a space where women can raise their voices and publish sensitive reports comes with significant risks.
“Every time we decide to publish a sensitive story, like the sexual assaults of women and murder of women’s rights activists, we must carefully consider the risks in order to protect our colleagues and sources.
“These choices are difficult and emotionally exhausting, but we keep going because we believe women’s voices must be heard, even in the darkest times,” she said.
The perilous environment for journalists in Afghanistan was also a concern.
“Speaking the truth has always been difficult and costly. Recently, the Taliban imprisoned two male journalists for ten years.”
She dedicated the award to all women who are fighting for their rights.
“I dedicate this award to all the women who, despite immense obstacles, have fought for their rights and continue to stand strong. Our struggle goes on, and your recognition gives us the strength to walk this difficult path with even greater determination.”
The 2024 Magnitsky Human Rights Awards also honored individuals from the United States, Canada, Russia, Azerbaijan, and Venezuela for their significant contributions to advancing human rights.
The awards are led by the Global Magnitsky Justice Campaign, an international initiative aimed at holding corrupt officials, human rights violators, and those involved in large-scale financial crimes accountable.
It’s named after Sergei Magnitsky, a Russian lawyer who uncovered widespread corruption among Russian government officials and was killed in prison in 2009.
The campaign has become a symbol of resistance against corruption and human rights violations and is supported by various governments, human rights organizations, and international activists, to apply international pressure through targeted sanctions to promote global behavioral change.
