Srinagar, October 1 (Daily Kiran) : Community development professional Anika Nazir recently addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, sharing insights on Kashmir’s culture, women’s empowerment, peace, and opportunities for youth.
In her conversation, Nazir emphasized the necessity of platforms where Kashmiris can share their stories and present their journeys in their own voices. “We have a rich tradition in literature, education, and cultural heritage. Given our strengths, we should raise our voices on global platforms. It was a remarkable opportunity for me, especially to elevate women’s voices,” she stated.
Nazir highlighted the limited time speakers have at the UNHRC, where civil society and youth representatives are given just 90 seconds to express their thoughts and briefly outline the issues they wish to address. “Those 90 seconds are crucial for determining what points to raise,” she noted.
When asked about the changes in Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370, Nazir observed a significant reduction in feelings of emptiness and danger. “Young people, especially those from Generation Z and the emerging Generation Alpha, are responding positively to the current environment. They have not experienced the struggles of the past and appreciate the positive changes,” she explained.
Addressing the portrayal of Kashmir as a “disputed” territory on global platforms, Nazir remarked, “The progress and development in Kashmir are a vital reality for those who have primarily viewed the region through the lens of instability and conflict. For those who have supported terrorism and sought to keep the area unstable, this is a significant setback.”
Nazir reflected on the perception of Kashmir, stating that it is often viewed through a geopolitical narrative. “As a Kashmiri who was born and raised here, I felt it was essential to highlight this difference, especially when speaking on a global stage. I emphasized that Kashmir should not be limited to geopolitical narratives. Peace is possible,” she asserted.
She further elaborated on the ongoing process of development, asserting that it is not a one-time event but a long-term journey. “Kashmir has experienced a period of lagging behind compared to the rest of the country and the world. Our youth have faced significant challenges, and the impact of past trauma has reached almost every household. As we move forward, we must not take our progress lightly. Opportunities must be provided to all generations to ensure continuous improvement,” she urged.
Nazir acknowledged Kashmir’s rich history, stating that despite over three decades of terrorism, it does not erase the region’s historical identity. “Kashmir has produced great Sufi saints and writers. I see people moving forward, and I believe Kashmir has tremendous potential to develop as a major center, similar to other regions worldwide,” she said.
Regarding recent incidents related to women’s safety and the need for stricter laws, Nazir called for a more responsive justice system. “There are already many laws in our constitution for women’s safety, but their proper implementation is crucial. The justice system should be sensitive and swift so that no woman fears approaching it,” she said.
She emphasized that empowerment goes beyond assistance; it also means achieving equality in all societal sectors. Women are increasingly participating in entrepreneurship, establishing their businesses, and making significant strides in national examinations. “Women are making their mark in various competitive exams, whether in NEET, higher secondary, or other tests. Their participation is more visible than ever,” she concluded.
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