Activist Nadia Murad has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her “efforts to end use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and armed conflict.”
And at Barça we have special reason to be pleased with the decision, after being honoured by Murad's presence at the club in January 2017. During her time here, she attended a women’s team training session, as well as getting the chance to speak to Leo Messi and Luis Suárez.
She was here by special invite in recognition of her work in favour of women’s rights and helping to build a better and fairer world for everyone.
Defending women
Nadia Murad is one of around 3,000 female members of the Yazidi people who were victims of systematic rape and other abuses as part of a Daesh military strategy against minority religious groups.
After managing to escape, her efforts to take action against the leaders of the Islamic State mean she is now on the end of death threats.
Murad is bravely telling the world about the horrific suffering that she has endured, and is working to help women and children victimized by genocide, mass atrocities, and human trafficking to heal and re-build their lives and communities.
Admirer of Messi
When she visited FC Barcelona last year, she told us that "I am very happy to be here and see how women have the same rights as men and can play football in all normality.”
“And the men’s team players set an example for young people all around the world, especially Messi, who is such a special player. He has changed the world. He has made the world a happier place.”
“I’d like to encourage all young people to avoid going down the road of the Islamic State and to something to make this world a better place instead.”
