DID Press: Afghanistan’s first-ever Paralympic medalist received the prestigious Council of Europe “North–South” Prize in recognition of her efforts to promote peace, solidarity, and human rights.
Zakia Khodadadi, a Paralympic athlete and the first Afghanistani woman to win a medal at the Paralympic Games, was honored with the award for her dedication to peace, equality, and human rights. The ceremony was held at the Portuguese Parliament, where the award was presented by Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
The “North–South” Prize is one of the Council of Europe’s most important honors, awarded annually to individuals who have significantly contributed to global solidarity, social justice, and intercultural dialogue.
Upon receiving the award, Khodadadi said, “This recognition is not just an award for me; it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and belief in dreams. I dedicate this honor to all women who, despite obstacles, continue to fight for a better future.”
She emphasized that sports have the power to unite people, highlighting that her own journey—from Afghanistan to the Paralympic Games and now to the Council of Europe—stands as a testament to the strength of faith and determination.
At the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Khodadadi won a bronze medal in para-taekwondo, marking Afghanistan’s first medal in Paralympic history.
Having fled Afghanistan as a refugee after the country’s government fell, she has become a prominent figure in the world of disability sports and an inspiration to the refugee community in Europe.