The Socialist International was deeply shocked and appalled to hear of the brutal shooting of 14-year old Malala Yousafzai by terrorists in Pakistan. Malala, from Mingora, Swat, has been a young campaigner for girls and women’s education and rights. The SI extends its thoughts and support to Malala and her family, hoping for her fast recovery.

The SI also expresses its full solidarity with the government of Pakistan and the Pakistan People’s Party, and supports all their efforts and their unwavering commitment to combat terrorism and protect the rights and freedoms of the Pakistani people.

The SI strongly defends the rights of girls and women to education and condemns this despicable terrorist activity, and the intimidation and victimisation of children.

Two Taliban members targeted Malala as she returned home from school. She was shot in the head and neck whilst surrounded by other children on the school bus. Malala survived the attack and is currently under critical care in hospital in Rawalpindi.