The youngest Nobel-Prize laureate, Malala Yousafzai reiterated that women across the world have freedom to choose between burqa or bikini.
In a recent interview related to female rights ahead of women’s day, Malala reacted to the recent hype of ‘no to burqa in educational institutes’ in India.
“Women are free to choose between a burqa or a bikini. Come and talk to us about individual freedom and autonomy, about preventing harm and violence, about education and emancipation. Do not come with your wardrobe notes,” Malala emphasized.
“Why women are continuously sexualised or suppressed in our society? We are beaten at home, punished at school and harassed in public for what we wear,” she highlighted.
The women activist recalled a life-taking incident happened with her after she spoke against Taliban’s restrictions for women in her hometown in Pakistan.
“Years ago I spoke against the Taliban forcing women in my community to wear burqas – and last month I spoke against Indian authorities forcing girls to remove their hijabs at school. The time hasn’t changed,” she shared.
Talking about her appearance, Malala said ‘scarf’ takes her closer to the culture and it is completely her choice. “The truth is, I love my scarves. I feel closer to my culture when I wear them. I hope girls from my village will see that someone who looks like them and dresses like them can complete her education, have a career and choose her own future,” she concluded.
