Artwork of Afghan refugees on display

The public exhibition was organised to mark 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence

ISLAMABAD:

Seven Pakistani and Afghan refugee artists showcased their art in a three-day exhibition held between 8 and 10 December, organised by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency at the Pakistan National council of Arts (PNCA) in Islamabad.

The public exhibition, organised to mark 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, tells the stories of talented women from all over Pakistan to advocate for gender equality, and strengthen the link between local and international action to end violence against women, through their paintings, said a press release issued. Diana, an artist from Afghanistan, explained the dreams of women in her country through her pieces.

“In these paintings called “safe space”, I show myself flying, where my arms symbolize my abilities and strength to reach my goals,” she added.

At the launch ceremony, UNHCR Deputy Representative in Pakistan, Tammi Sharpe underscored that over 43 million forcibly displaced and stateless women and girls face heightened risk of gender-based violence.

“Across the world, women and girls are bearing the brunt of wars,” she said.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 13^th, 2022.