Hadiqa Bashir is a 22-year-old activist and feminist from Swat Valley, Pakistan, recognized for her advocacy in girls’ education, human rights, and peacebuilding. She is a survivor of child marriage and has made a significant impact by raising awareness about the struggles of girls and women in conflict-affected regions, particularly in areas once under Taliban control. Hadiqa’s leadership is evident in the historic girls-led peace walk in Swat, which challenged the Taliban’s restrictions on girls’ education, sending a powerful message of resilience. Her efforts have been acknowledged globally, earning her a place as a United Nations SDG Young Leader in 2020. 

As the Founder and Executive Director of Girls United for Human Rights (GUHR), Hadiqa’s work focuses on empowering young women in peace and conflict resolution, especially through the “Girls’ Role in Conflict Resolution” campaign. She actively promotes women’s inclusion in peace processes, particularly in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where extremism remains a threat. Her work reflects her commitment to ensuring that women’s voices are integral to global peace and security dialogues, pushing for lasting solutions in conflict zones worldwide. 

Participant in: October 2024 Fellowship: Peacebuilding and Women’s Meaningful Participation in Peacebuilding Processes