Malala should be considered for Nobel Peace Prize, says Angelina Jolie

Actor in writes that Malala and her parents are icons of bravery and strength.

American actor and former United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) goodwill ambassador, Angelina Jolie has joined the growing number of voices speaking in support of Malala Yousafzai, the 14-year-old girl who was targeted by the Taliban in Pakistan.

The attack on the 14-year-old drew strong reactions from within the country and internationally. Multiple rallies and vigils were held in different cities across Pakistan in support of Malala and to condemn the actions of the Taliban. She was recently flow to the United Kingdom for further treatment.

Jolie, in an article for The Daily Beast, says that Malala and her parents are icons of bravery and strength, echoing the sentiments of many across the world. The actor writes about conversations with her children about Malala and how they worried that girls at demonstrations and vigils might be targeted for showing support.

Still trying to understand, my children asked, “Why did those men think they needed to kill Malala?” I answered, “because an education is a powerful thing.”

Jolie goes on to say that the stand shown by Pakistanis on the issue showed how much education means to the nation. She says that the attack on Malala accomplished the complete opposite of what it intended to do.

A spokesman for the Pakistani Taliban said “let this be a lesson.” Yes. Let this be a lesson—that an education is a basic human right, a right that Pakistan’s daughters will not be denied.

She writes that Malala is proof that it takes only the voice of one brave person to inspire numerous men, women and children, and hopes that the Nobel Committee will seriously consider Malala for the Peace Prize.

Across Pakistan, a national movement has emerged to rebuild the schools and recommit to educate all children, including girls. This terrible event marks the beginning of a necessary revolution in girls’ education.