SonjaBe.com International Relations – Be Here | Be You | Be True

You are an outspoken female lawyer who courageously defends human rights and women’s rights in Iran.  You actively challenge the Iranian political system in a fight for freedom, reform and change.  Sadly, you are most likely in prison or on your way to prison. The above account specifically describes the case of Nasrin Sotoudeh:  an Iranian mother, wife, lawyer, human rights defender and justice activist who is currently serving a reduced six year sentence in Iran’s infamous prison, Evin. In addition to her six year prison term, Sotoudeh has been banned from practicing law for 10 years. Read More »

Is gender equality achievable in the shift towards democracy in the Middle East despite the deep-rooted cultural beliefs? This is a daunting yet unavoidable question that hangs over us as we watch the Arab Spring evolve. A year of struggle, devotion, hope, and revolutions has finally given women a chance to break the barriers of fear and speak up. A major shift, a major change, a major opportunity has surfaced for women in the Middle East. From Egypt, Tunisia, and elsewhere we have witnessed women fighting for change, rights, dignity and opportunity. It has been difficult to miss the powerful presence of women in the revolutions. Their involvement and participation in the public realm has been proven a necessary element of civic society. Read More »

Sure, it is great that King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has finally allowed women to vote and run as candidates…but isn’t this a bit too late? The new law won’t even be implemented until 2015. We applaud the oil rich kingdom for arriving at this solution at last but let’s be real here. Do they deserve a standing ovation for an achievement that is hardly called an achievement? Read More »