ISLAMABAD – On the eve of Human Rights Day 2016, the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) and the High Commission of Canada are delighted to recognise Ms Eiza Abid, a 15-year-old Pakistani girl from Lahore, who has won the international “Celebrating Freedom” poster competition.
In 2015, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva launched a competition in several countries to encourage school-aged children to create a poster on the theme of freedom. Primary (ages 5-11) and secondary (ages 12-18) students from across Pakistan submitted more than 60 entries.
Pakistan’s Eiza Abid won the “Celebrating Freedom” competition in the 12-18 age groups. Her artwork uses both dark tones and bright colours to represent freedom of thought. In recognition of her success, she was formally presented with a certificate signed by Mr Zaid Ra’ad Al Hussein, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
“My painting personifies the darkness and confinement within a person’s life, and once the person is set free from the pressures and judgments of others, one can freely express their thoughts and imagination in their true colours, illustrating their unique vision and bright outlook,” said Eiza Abid.
“Freedom and human rights are core Canadian values,” said Perry Calderwood, High Commissioner of Canada. “Canada played a central role in drafting the Universal freedom. I am pleased to see Pakistani girls and boys using their talents to promote this same values’ I congratulate Ms Abid and all the participants.”He added.
Director of the UN Vittorio Cammarota Information Centre said: “This competition highlights how art can be used as a medium to convey powerful messages and foster a positive change.”-Online
