SOUTH ASIA: Educate girls For a Better World: Women's Meet

She rose against dictatorship and climbed the ladder of democracy to live in a free world. Shireen Ibrahim Fattah, representative of the Kurdish government, Iraq, believes a free world makes for a conducive learning environment, especially for women. She enlists the pros of a democratic world during her recent visit to the Art of Living campus in Bangalore to address delegates at the Women and Technology meet. Excerpts from an interview:

What does it mean to be free from a dictatorial regime?

I have to tell my story to answer this question. My father was in prison for eight years because of the dictatorial regime, as a result of which my entire family suffered. I have seven brothers; they supported me for my education and that is how I am what I am today. To be free is very important so that everybody can get education.

What do you believe democracy can achieve? Why?

Democracy will facilitate education for girls, which is very important because it contributes to betterment of society.

Which country do you believe is truly democratic?

I cannot talk about any one country which is truly democratic. In European countries, women are free, they can wear any kind of clothing, can get education, and also get whatever they want.

What are some of the problems that you've faced as a woman and don't want any other woman in the world to be subject to?

I haven't faced the kind of problems other women in my country have. Many women are not educated because they don't get support of their families.

What's the relation between humanity and culture as a tool for humanity?

In my country, culture prescribes that women cover their heads. When my daughter sees me not wearing my scarf in other countries, it amazes her and she asks me why I am not wearing it. I tell her that I have to adjust to the culture of the countries I am visiting.

What really has technology done for women?

A few years ago, there were no mobile phones and people couldn't contact each other easily. Now, I can call my husband to ask him how he is because I have a mobile. But it is also important that women are educated on how to use technology.

What is your masterplan for a better world, a better Iraq?

I want education for all, especially women. Also peace, freedom and the ability to understand each other better, to make the world a better place.