Courage in the Face of Suffering

November 7, 2005

Country: Pakistan

Topics: Women, Peaceful Change

In Pakistan and around the world, Mercy Corps is helping women like Mukhtaran Bibi to improve their lives and change their communities. Photo: Reuters

In 2002, Mukhtaran Bibi suffered an unimaginable ordeal. As punishment for a village dispute involving her brother, Mukhtaran was sentenced by a Pakistani tribal council to be publically gang-raped. The council proclaimed that the rape would bring shame upon Mukhtaran's family. Immediately after her torturous ordeal, a beaten and humiliated Mukhtaran was forced by her tormenters to walk home naked - her only advocate was her father, who covered her with a shawl as she passed hundreds of villagers.

Mukhtaran didn't allow her torment to overwhelm her. Instead, she courageously pursued the prosecution of her attackers and compensation for her family.

Justice has yet to be fully visited on Mukhtaran's tormentors, but she has received some compensation from the Pakistani government. She generously used the money to build two schools in her rural village - one for girls and one for boys. She believes that the only way to stop cruel, archaic punishments like she suffered is to change the minds and hearts of young people.

Mercy Corps is helping Mukhtaran in her quest to effect such positive change.

Since her story received global notoriety several months ago as a result of New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof, Mukhtaran has received thousands of dollars to continue the important work she's doing. In addition to continuing to improve the two schools, she's also built a police station and plans to buy an ambulance to transport villagers to a nearby hospital.

Mercy Corps, which has worked in Pakistan since the mid-1980s, is working with Mukhtaran to best use the donations she has received as a result of Kristof's coverage of her story.  Mercy Corps is also helping to keep her safe as she continues to seek justice for her ordeal.

Around the world, Mercy Corps is committed to helping women achieve their highest potential and live without fear of violence or oppression. Our innovative programs enable women to start their own businesses, ensure healthier futures for their families and gain valuable educations.

Mukhtaran Bibi stands as a shining example of brave perseverance in the face of terrible suffering. Mercy Corps is proud to help her and other women around the world continue their courageous struggles toward equality and opportunity.