Sultana Tafadar is believed to be the first hijab wearing criminal barrister to be appointed King’s Counsel. A hijab-wearing criminal barrister, believed to be one of the first to be appointed King’s Counsel (KC), has launched an international organisation to inform and empower girls across the world on their rights.
Sultana Tafadar, from No5 Barristers’ Chambers, founded the Girls Human Rights Hub alongside her 11-year-old daughter Safiya. Ms Tafadar, who was appointed KC last year, is said to be the second hijab-wearing barrister to become a KC after Shaheed Fatima – but the first criminal barrister to wear the religious garb to receive the appointment.
She said the not-for-profit organisation will provide resources as well as training to girls and women between the ages of 11 to 24 to use advocacy, leadership and litigation to make positive change for rights. The organisation will aim to progress the advancement of gender equity and the eradication of gender-based violence, the right to education, right to climate justice, menstrual equity, and ending domestic and sexual violence.
Ms Tafadar, who has been working in human rights law since she was called to the Bar, said she has seen first-hand the injustices faced by women and girls across the world. She told the PA News Agency: “We hold the belief that every girl is entitled to a life free from oppression, discrimination, and violence, and that girls’ rights are fundamental human rights.
