“Empowering Women; Empowering Humanity” photo and painting exhibition in Afghanistan
Date:
Kabul, Afghanistan - On 08 March, in celebration of International Women’s Day, UN Women’s Afghanistan Country Office, in partnership with the Centre for Contemporary Arts-Afghanistan, organized a one-day photo and painting exhibition featuring female and male Afghan artists. All UN staff in Kabul were invited. Under the theme “Empowering Women; Empowering Humanity” the exhibition aimed to bring together UN staff celebrating International Women’s Day, while offering them insights into the lives, issues and strengths of Afghanistan’s women and girls.
In his opening remarks Mr. Richard Danziger, the International Organization for Migration’s Chief of Mission and Resident Coordinator a.i., called the day a time to reflect on the progress made, to call for change and to celebrate the acts of courage and determination by all Afghan women and girls. “Let’s commit ourselves to living up to our obligations, supporting women in the office, in our communities, and in our homes,” said Mr. Danziger.
The exhibition opened on Sunday morning in the UN’s UNOCA Compound, offering glimpses of women’s life in Afghanistan through art and photography. More than 200 photographic and artistic works were displayed, and nearly 300 visitors viewed them.
UN Women Country Representative Ms. Elzira Sagynbaeva reiterated that UN Women will continue working within the UN System as well as with national and international stakeholders to ensure coordinated advocacy in support of women and girls empowerment. “We are committed to work together and support the Afghan Government and civil society organizations to enhance gender equality and the empowerment of women” said Ms. Sagynbaeva.
Aside from this event, UN Women supported the Afghan Ministry of Women’s Affairs to organize the government’s official event, held on 5 March. In addition, UN Women has sponsored various TV spots on women issues to be aired during March.