Anisa Yousaf, 24, recently won her freedom when a Lahore court annulled her forced marriage, a decision imposed by her father. After she declined to marry her cousin, Anisa faced severe abuse, prompting her to seek help from Acesop, an organization aiding victims of forced marriages in Pakistan. Now happily with her partner and their baby, she advocates for women's right to choose their partners. Despite her victory, Anisa fears for her safety both in Barcelona and back home in Pakistan, having applied for political asylum in Spain due to her father's arrest for trafficking.
Anisa's struggle highlights the ongoing issue of forced marriages and honor crimes where women are often treated as instruments rather than individuals with rights.
The court's decision to annul Anisa's forced marriage is a pivotal moment, emphasizing the legal recognition of women's autonomy in marital choices in many communities.
Anisa's plea resonates deeply: 'Parents should give their daughters freedom of choice. Women should be able to marry the man of their choice... Thank God I made my own decision.'
The support from organizations like Acesop is crucial in combating systemic issues like forced marriage, offering not just refuge but a voice to women like Anisa.
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