#UNICEF #Afghanistan #Sonita Alizadeh #Afghan Women #Herat

Sonita Alizadeh's 'Donate Your Voice' Initiative

On February 27, 2026, Afghan singer and activist Sonita Alizadeh launched an inspiring campaign titled 'Donate Your Voice.' This initiative aims to amplify the voices of women and girls in Afghanistan who have been silenced through oppressive laws and societal norms. The collaboration with UNICEF seeks to encourage individuals worldwide to speak out against injustice and support Afghan women through a powerful digital medium, a TikTok filter that allows participants to share their animated voices in solidarity.

In recent years, Afghanistan has witnessed severe restrictions on women’s rights. Currently, over 21 million women and girls face systematic exclusion from various aspects of public life due to legislative actions taken since 2021. They have been barred from education starting at the age of 12. In 2022, regulations mandated that women could not move freely without a male guardian. By 2024, the legal framework had evolved to restrict public speech, rendering women unable to speak, sing, or laugh in public spaces. This harsh reality escalated in 2026, when new criminal codes were introduced, permitting violence and corporal punishment against women and children.

Sonita Alizadeh, a prominent voice and a survivor of forced marriages, utilizes her experiences to raise global awareness regarding the plight of Afghan women. 'Can Someone Find My Friends,' a poignant song she penned, serves as a tribute to friends lost to forced marriages, violence, or execution. Her rich and impactful lyrics highlight the urgent need for support and recognition of the suffering faced by Afghan women today.

To participate in the 'Donate Your Voice' campaign, individuals can use the unique TikTok filter developed by Atomic Design or contribute through the platform donateyourvoice.net. Upon lending their voices in chorus to Sonita’s track, participants become part of a global choir that echoes the struggles and resilience of women facing oppression in Afghanistan. With the support of Grammy-nominated producer John Foyle, who will mix the collected voices into a choral piece, the campaign strives to deliver a resonant message of empowerment and strength.

Interestingly, while focusing on Afghan women, 'Donate Your Voice' communicates a broader message: the fundamental right to freedom of expression transcends culture and geography. Sonita encourages anyone who feels powerless against injustice to understand that their voice can create change. 'I want everyone feeling powerless against injustice to know their voice matters,' she emphasizes.

With funds raised through this initiative will directly support UNICEF’s ongoing programs aimed at aiding Afghan women and girls. For nearly eight decades, UNICEF has operated in Afghanistan, aiming to protect children's rights and advocating for equal education, healthcare, and essential services for girls to ensure their safety and well-being. The agency is mobilizing its ambassadors to expand the campaign's reach and enlighten communities about the severe restrictions Afghan girls currently endure.

About Sonita Alizadeh

Born in 1996 in Herat, Sonita Alizadeh has evolved into a globally recognized figure advocating against forced marriages and violence towards girls. Following her escape from two forced marriages, she transformed her life experiences into activism through music. Her breakout song 'Brides for Sale' criticized the sale of young girls, earning her critical acclaim and recognition through the documentary 'Sonita,' which won awards at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival. Her advocacy has led her to significant platforms, including the United Nations, where she continues to fight for the rights of women and girls across various regions.

Sonita’s accolades include the 2025 Cannes Lionheart and the 2021 Normandy Freedom Prize, along with being featured in Forbes' '30 Under 30 Asia.'

About John Foyle

John Foyle is a British producer who has been involved in numerous renowned pop and alternative music projects. With collaborations extending to prominent artists, his expertise encompasses various music genres. Foyle’s involvement in 'Donate Your Voice' reflects his commitment to creating impactful music and using his platform for social justice.

About UNICEF

UNICEF’s long-standing presence in Afghanistan has allowed the organization to become a pivotal force in safeguarding the rights of children and women. Their mission focuses on ensuring access to healthcare, education, and essential resources necessary for the survival and development of every girl in Afghanistan, addressing the severe challenges faced within a humanitarian crisis.

As the world hears the call from Sonita Alizadeh through her 'Donate Your Voice' campaign, a collective movement emerges, asserting the critical importance of safeguarding and promoting the rights of women everywhere.