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An event titled "The Desert Daughters of India," held on the sidelines of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, brought urgent attention to the struggles of marginalised women in Rajasthan, including asylum seekers fleeing hardship.
Hosted by the Sambhali Trust, the discussion highlighted community-led initiatives focused on education, traditional crafts, and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable women. Among the speakers was Ruby Addae, a guest at the event, who delivered an emotional account of the challenges faced by women in desert regions. She said the stories shared by the foundation deeply resonated with her as a mother. "I cannot imagine my children being taken away or not having a safe place to sleep," she noted, emphasising the urgency of amplifying these women's voices despite competing global crises. Addae also drew attention to the plight of asylum-seeking women, describing the experience as one of profound identity loss. She stated that navigating a foreign land without language, security, or recognition creates immense psychological distress, calling for greater global empathy and support. Annelyse, President of Sambhali Trust France, reinforced these concerns with insights from over a decade of involvement with the organisation. Having visited regions like Jodhpur, Sitrawa, and Jaisalmer, she described firsthand the transformative impact of Sambhali's work. She highlighted how many women arriving at shelters lack even basic literacy or self-confidence. "They often cannot write their own names or look people in the eye," she said, adding that beyond food and shelter, the organisation fosters dignity and self-worth. Over time, women begin to assert their identity and recognise their importance. The event highlighted the intersection of gender inequality, displacement, and social exclusion, particularly among women crossing borders in search of safety. Speakers called for sustained international awareness and support to expand such grassroots initiatives. (ANI)
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