On June 28, 2025, MD. Zakira Hekmat, the Founder and President of the Asylum Seekers and Refugees Solidarity Association (ARSA), met with Denmark’s newly appointed Danish Special Representative for Afghanistan, Mette Knudsen, in Ankara. Knudsen visited Türkiye between June 26–28 and held consultations with Dr. Hekmat as part of her official visit.
The meeting focused on the latest political and social developments in Afghanistan, with particular emphasis on the challenges faced by civil society organizations working on women's rights and their achievements. Key issues discussed included the human rights violations experienced by Afghan women, restrictions on girls’ access to education, and ongoing advocacy efforts in these areas.
During the meeting, MD. Zakira Hekmat emphasized ARSA's commitment to continuing to be the voice of Afghan women and highlighted the vital role of international solidarity and support from countries like Denmark.
As part of the visit, MD. Hekmat also met with H.E. Ole Toft, Ambassador of Denmark to Türkiye, to exchange views on the situation of Afghan refugees and the role of civil society organizations in Türkiye.
The meetings underscored the importance of such diplomatic engagements in fostering a unified international stance against human rights violations in Afghanistan.
