During the International Day of the Girl campaign, we heard the stories of girls and women striving for education, choice, independence, and the right to have their voices heard.

We learned that resistance takes many forms—from challenging coercion and control over their bodies and clothing, to pursuing education, building businesses, participating in sports, and documenting experiences of repression.

We learned that education creates the opportunity to choose one’s future. Being denied education can also limit economic independence, social participation, and the ability to make decisions about one’s own future.

The circumstances in Iran and Afghanistan are not the same, but in both contexts, girls face serious barriers to accessing their rights. Effective support requires understanding these differences and responding to their real needs.

We learned that individual courage should not replace collective responsibility. Girls should not have to be heroes simply to enjoy their most basic rights.

And we learned that listening must lead to action: supporting education and independence, creating meaningful opportunities, ensuring girls have a voice in decision-making, and advancing their rights and demands.

Every girl has the right to learn, choose, and build her future without fear.

@iranhrdc
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