Mukhtar Mai

A Pakistani survivor of gang rape who became a global symbol of resilience and women’s rights advocacy.

Mukhtar Mai (born 1972), also known as Mukhtaran Bibi, transformed personal tragedy into a movement for justice in rural Pakistan. In 2002, she was gang-raped on the orders of a tribal council as punishment for her brother’s alleged misconduct—a brutal act intended to silence her. Instead, Mai defied stigma by pursuing legal action, resulting in the unprecedented conviction of six attackers.

With compensation funds, she established the Mukhtar Mai Women’s Welfare Organization, building schools for girls and a trauma center. Her memoir 《In the Name of Honor》 (2006) exposed systemic misogyny, while international figures like Angelina Jolie supported her cause. Mai’s activism spurred amendments to Pakistan’s rape laws, including the 2006 Women’s Protection Bill.

Despite death threats, Mai continues to advocate for education and legal reform. Recognized by Amnesty International, her story proves that courage can dismantle cycles of violence. She remains a beacon of hope for survivors worldwide.