Marzia: A Judge's Fight for Afghan Women's Rights takes readers on a heart-pounding journey through the stark realities of life under Taliban rule—navigating checkpoints, relying on secret networks, and making high-stakes decisions in moments where every second mattered. Through vivid storytelling, Marzia brings to life the fear that gripped so many, as well as the resilience that carried her and countless others forward.
Book cover photo by Lucy Smith from Smith Imaging.
Debbie Abrahams,
Member of Parliament,
United Kingdom
Marzia Babakarkhail is a true hero of Afghanistan. Reading her story will make you think, what would I have done in the same circumstances? It will challenge your values and whether you'd be prepared ot give up everything to live those values.
Dr. Marijke Hoek, Theologian, BBC Manchester Contributor
Liaising with governments all over the world, being available 24/7 in different time zones and under great pressure, Marzia is an ardent advocate working tirelessly on behalf of her colleagues, fueled by the fire in her bones to see justice done.
Rina Amiri, Former U.S. Special Envoy for Afghan Women, Girls, and Human Rights; Cofounder and Principle for the Alliance of Diplomacy and Justice
This powerful memoir chronicles the extraordinary journey of Honorable Marzia Babakarkhail, a pioneering Afghan family court judge who stood defiantly at the crossroads of law, activism, and resistance.
The Authors
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Former Judge and Activist
Marzia Babakarkhail
Marzia was a judge in Afghanistan for seven years before becoming a member of the board and chair of the Women’s Committee of the Afghan NGO’s Coordination Bureau. Now living in the UK, she is a caseworker for a member of Parliament and is a lifelong women’s rights activist and advocate. Babakarkhail appears on the BBC and other news outlets as a spokesperson for Afghan women.
Writer, Consultant, Book Coach
Pamela Say
Pamela is a non-profit consultant and serves as a book coach, writer, and editor for emerging authors through her consulting firm. She is the author of five books and spent more than six months interviewing and collaborating with Marzia Babakarkhail to tell her story. Before moving into consulting, Pamela served as a university Vice President and internationally recognized fundraising professional.
