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Desert Daughters: Sambhali Trust Takes Border Stories to UN Rights Council

The Sambhali Trust brought the stories of displaced women and asylum seekers from Pakistan's border regions to the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Founder Govind Singh Rathore highlighted the perilous journeys families undertake across the Thar Desert to find safety and dignity in India. The Trust is hosting a photo exhibition and side event to visually document these experiences and amplify grassroots narratives on a global platform. Through its advocacy, the organization aims to bridge local realities with international policy, focusing on the empowerment of women, children, and gender minorities.

Key Points: Sambhali Trust Advocates for Desert Migrants at UN Human Rights Council

  • Advocacy at UNHRC
  • Support for cross-border asylum seekers
  • Empowerment of women & minorities
  • Photo exhibition in Geneva
  • Grassroots to global mission
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Sambhali Trust highlights Desert Daughters of India at UNHRC

Sambhali Trust highlights displaced women & asylum seekers from Pakistan at UNHRC, showcasing resilience through exhibition and advocacy in Geneva.

"living peacefully with dignity in India outweighs the suffering they leave behind - Govind Singh Rathore"

Geneva, March 19

On the sidelines of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, voices from India's desert communities and cross-border asylum seekers echoed as representatives of the Sambhali Trust highlighted issues of displacement, dignity, and grassroots empowerment.

Govind Singh Rathore, founder of the Sambhali Trust, highlighted the organisation's mission to support women, children, and gender minorities through vocational training, primary education, and holistic development. Established in 2007 and granted UN ECOSOC consultative status in 2015, the Trust has continued to expand its advocacy from Rajasthan to global platforms.

Addressing the UNHRC, Rathore drew attention to asylum seekers arriving in Jaisalmer from Pakistan. He described how families undertake perilous journeys across the Thar Desert, often without food or water, in search of safety and dignity. According to him, many migrants express a common sentiment that, despite hardship, living peacefully with dignity in India outweighs the suffering they leave behind.

To amplify these narratives, Sambhali Trust has organised two events in Geneva. A photo exhibition titled "Desert Daughters of India" will be held on March 24, showcasing visual stories of women who have crossed borders under extreme conditions. This will be followed by a side event on March 26 featuring a film screening and the launch of a publication documenting their experiences.

Tasha Mauricette Stoppler, a volunteer representing the Trust, emphasised the importance of addressing minority rights at the global level. She highlighted the organisation's grassroots approach in Rajasthan, where it works closely with marginalised women and children to understand their needs and provide tailored support.

Stoppler noted that Sambhali's work goes beyond recognition, focusing on tangible action to uplift communities. She also reiterated the importance of international platforms such as the UNHRC in raising visibility for underreported issues, particularly those affecting gender minorities and vulnerable populations.

Through its participation in the UNHRC, Sambhali Trust aims to bridge local realities with global advocacy, urging the international community to recognise the resilience and aspirations of those seeking a safer, more dignified future.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
It's heartbreaking to read about the perilous journeys families undertake across the Thar. The fact that they choose India for safety and dignity speaks volumes. We must support organisations like Sambhali Trust that provide real, grassroots empowerment.
A
Aman W
While the advocacy is commendable, I hope the focus remains on sustainable solutions within India. Vocational training and education are key. Global platforms are good for visibility, but the real change happens on the ground in Rajasthan.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in international development, it's refreshing to see a local trust with UN consultative status. Their model of understanding needs first and then providing tailored support is exactly what's needed. The photo exhibition sounds powerful.
V
Vikram M
Jai Hind! Our nation has always been a sanctuary for those seeking peace. The work being done for women, children, and gender minorities in the desert regions is a testament to India's compassionate spirit. More power to the Trust.
K
Kavya N
The inclusion of gender minorities in their mission is crucial and often overlooked. Grassroots empowerment is the only way forward. I hope their UNHRC side event leads to more concrete international support for these vulnerable groups.

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