Our third edition of the 2024 Beyond Victims Series brings you stories of inspiring women political leaders from Maldives.
Dive in to read stories of Hawwa Abdul Azees, Fathimath Sauda, Asma Rasheed (Central Maafannu), and Jeehan Mahmood (Member of Parliament).
Hawwa Abdul Azees
Azees made history as the first woman to become the Atoll Council President in the Maldives, winning Faafu Atoll's presidency with 941 votes. With over 20 years of experience, she’s a trailblazer in local politics, breaking gender barriers and championing policies on economic development, social equity, and sustainable growth for her community.
Fathimath Sauda
Started her journey as a student activist, later transitioning into teaching and politics, now an influential voice in Nepali national politics. She led the community efforts during natural disasters, particularly floods, where she prioritised the needs of women from the Chaudhary community, part of Nepal's indigenous Tharu people.
Asma Rasheed (Central Maafannu)
A member of the Progressive National Congress, champions gender equality and women's rights. She submitted and advocated for the landmark Gender Equality Bill, ensuring equal opportunities and constitutional rights for women. On the international stage, she serves on the IPU’s High-Level Advisory Group on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism.
Jeehan Mahmood (Member of Parliament)
Chair of the Parliamentary Human Rights and Gender Committee, advocates for human rights and gender equality. As Chair of the IPU Human Rights and Democracy Committee, she promotes global democratic principles. Previously, she contributed to reforms in domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking laws, enhancing human rights protections in the Maldives.
–People's Majlis and Avas
Project Management: Ragini Puri
Contributors: Aditi Verma and Nikita Kumari
Edited by: Sugandha
Design: Escandita Tewari
Template: Vida Seraphina (https://vidaseraphina.dk/)
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