Former Runaway Seeks Womens Rights Support

Saudi Teenager Rahaf Mohammed Granted Asylum in Canada

Former Runaway Seeks Women's Rights Support

Montreal Gazette, January 15, 2019

Rahaf Mohammed, the 18-year-old Saudi teenager who fled an allegedly abusive family to Thailand, has been granted asylum in Canada. Rahaf, who gained widespread attention with her social media pleas for protection, stated that she intends to "work in support of women's freedom around the world" in her new home.

Rahaf captured the world's attention when she barricaded herself in a Bangkok hotel on January 5th. She used Twitter to appeal for assistance, claiming that her family was forcing her into an arranged marriage and that she would likely be killed if returned to Saudi Arabia. Canada extended its consular support to Rahaf, and she arrived in Toronto on January 12th.

Rahaf's case highlighted the plight of women in Saudi Arabia, where they face significant restrictions on their freedom and autonomy. Her public defiance has inspired other women to speak out against the country's patriarchal laws and practices.