Help an Afghan Human Rights Defender and His Family Get to Safety

For over two decades, Noor dedicated his life to protecting the rights of children and advocating for girls' equal right to quality education in Afghanistan. Working with international and local feminist organisations, he fought tirelessly to expand access to education, advocate for human rights, reduce violence against women and girls, and resist restrictions on civil liberties in Afghanistan. Today, with the Taliban in power in Afghanistan, Noor's work in favour of human rights has placed his and his family's lives in serious danger.

Why They Need Urgent Help

Since 2021, after the Taliban's return to power, Noor and his family have faced repeated threats, arrests, and violent attacks. He was detained, tortured, and forced into hiding. The Taliban has interrogated and harassed his relatives, raided his home, and violently attacked two of his sons, hospitalizing them. His entire family, including his wife and five children have lived in constant fear, forced to relocate multiple times to evade further persecution. Noor's daughters have not been able to go to school since Taliban takeover in 2021.

Despite these risks, the family has managed to secure pre-approval for resettlement in Canada through an official government program for Afghan human rights defenders and journalists. However, they must first leave Afghanistan to complete the final steps of their application at a nearby embassy.

After years of preparation the family has the resources needed to travel to Pakistan to complete their permanent residency process.

What Your Support Will Do

Once in Pakistan, they will also need to cover their living expenses while awaiting final approval, which could take anywhere from one week to six months. I am hoping to raise a total of €5,000 for their immediate needs and should the family leave for Canada quickly, all remaining funds will be transferred to the family once they arrive in Canada to help them get on their feet and begin this new chapter of their lives.

Your donation will help fund:

✔ Safe housing and living expenses in Pakistan while awaiting Canadian clearance

✔ A small fund to help the family get on their feet once in Canada (depending on the funds remaining)

Any small amount will make the biggest difference for the family on their journey to safety. Thank you <3

©Van Weyenbergh