Amal Clooney’s client shares powerful story in new interview

Nadia Murad, 21, was kidnapped, imprisoned and raped by Islamic State


Entertainment Desk March 21, 2017
PHOTO:ELLE

International human rights attorney Amal Alamuddin became a household name after marrying Hollywood's most eligible bachelor and actor George Clooney. But to Nadia Murad, she is the woman helping her fight for her family, homeland and way of life.

'Allow UN probe of Islamic State Yazidi crimes': Amal Clooney

In the latest issue of 1843, Amal and Nadia, a Yazidi refugee of the Islamic State open up about their work fighting genocide of the Yazidi people, reported Elle magazine. The latter was taken from her home in Kocho at the age of 21, pressured to adopt Islam, imprisoned and raped. She found freedom in Germany, where she currently lives. As her attorney, Amal does everything from gathering evidence and creating a legal strategy to making sure the case stays relevant.

On September 22, 2016, the duo addressed the United Nations together. As Nadia drew tears with her story, Amal delivered a powerful message reminding the UN members that the genocide is still underway and no culprits had been prosecuted.

George and Amal Clooney expecting boy, girl

"This is the first time I have had a chance to address an audience in front of the UN Secretary-General," Clooney said in her speech. "I wish I could say I was proud to be here. But I’m not. I’m ashamed, as a supporter of the UN that states are failing to prevent or even punish genocide, because they find that their own interests get in the way. I’m ashamed, as a lawyer, that there is no justice being done and barely a complaint being made about it. I’m ashamed, as a woman, that girls like Nadia can have their bodies sold. I’m ashamed as a human being that we ignore their cries for help."

Though the case could take years, Amal vows not to give up and hopes mounting pressure on the UN will result in the prosecution of the Islamic State. As she said, "Every single one of them must be brought to justice."

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COMMENTS (1)

Muzaffa Ali | 7 years ago | Reply No doubt its terrifying story and exploring the evil practices of ignorant states. But how long we will be sharing these types of stories until we don’t establish viable and socially secure states. Did we set up any rules to isolate these states which are dominated by warlords, feudal and industrialists who controls the states by their wealth and influence. The state like Pakistan unable to control the mentioned class which has deep rooted influence even in the lives of peoples who are serving them.
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