The Context: War and Feminism in Sudan
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a brutal conflict that has wreaked havoc on communities, disrupted, displaced and killed countless lives, and dismantled civic spaces. As the violence continues to escalate, Sudanese women have borne the brunt of the suffering. The current war has exacerbated long standing gender inequalities, making the work of feminist activists and woman human rights (WHRD) even more perilous and essential.
For 30 years under Omar al-Bashir’s dictatorship, women in Sudan endured severe oppression. Violence against women was not only rampant but state-sanctioned, enforced by the military, police, and security forces. Women were limited to just 25% of parliamentary seats, and in regions plagued by genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, women from marginalised ethnic groups faced sexual violence as a weapon of war. Freedom of expression was stifled, and civil society work was heavily restricted, with women journalists and human rights defenders facing constant harassment, state targeting, and threats of violence or exile.
Despite the heightened risks, Sudanese feminists and women activists continue to champion their rights, with a vision of a just and equitable society. In the face of overwhelming adversity, they persist—organising, resisting, and advocating for change, embodying resilience in the darkest of times.
Meet Our Guests: Voices of Courage
In this episode, we are joined by two remarkable Sudanese feminist activists who have dedicated their lives to advancing women’s rights and social justice.
- Dr. Asha Al-Kareb: A trailblazing feminist activist and a staunch defender of women’s and girls’ rights, Dr. Asha has been at the forefront of the feminist movement in Sudan for years. She is the founder of several feminist associations that work tirelessly to empower women and advocate for gender justice, even in the face of war.
- Asala Salah: A writer, feminist and grassroots advocate, Asala Salah has been a vocal supporter of women’s rights and a champion for marginalised communities in Sudan. Her activism is deeply rooted in her commitment to social justice and her belief in the power of collective action to create change.
Hosted by Samar Abushama
Guiding us through this important conversation is Samar Abushama, a passionate feminist activist with a strong focus on social justice and gender equality. Samar has been actively involved in documenting human rights violations in Sudan and advocating for the protection of women’s rights. Her expertise and dedication bring depth and insight to this episode.
A Conversation on Resilience and Resistance
Throughout this episode, our guests share their personal stories and experiences of navigating the challenges posed by the ongoing war. They discuss the unique struggles that Sudanese women face in times of conflict, from increased violence and displacement to the shrinking of civic spaces where feminist activism can thrive.
Despite these immense challenges, Dr. Asha and Asala highlight the unyielding spirit of Sudanese women. They share stories of resilience, courage, and solidarity within the feminist movement, showcasing how women are finding ways to continue their work, support one another, and push for change even in the most difficult circumstances.
This episode is not just about the hardships—it is also a celebration of the determination and resilience of Sudanese feminist activists. Their stories serve as a testament to the strength of women who, despite the odds, continue to fight for their rights and the rights of others.
Join us as we amplify their voices, honour their struggles, and learn from their experiences. Their narratives remind us of the importance of solidarity and the power of collective action in the face of oppression.
Listen Now
Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring episode of #PoliticalIsPersonal. Tune in now to hear from Sudanese feminist activists about the impact of war on their movement and how they continue to resist and rebuild in the midst of conflict.
Let’s stand with Sudanese women and amplify their voices!
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