Maria Munir, a passionate lawyer and Executive Director of the Ethiopian Women’s Sanctuary and Development (AWSAD), has devoted her career to fighting against gender-based violence (GBV) and advocating for the rights of women and girls in Ethiopia. With a vision to not only provide legal aid but also support and empower survivors, Maria’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and determination.
Growing up with a strong sense of justice, Maria was driven by the desire to change the system for the better. After earning her law degree and work as a lawyer, she founded AWSAD, aiming to create a comprehensive platform that would address the legal, emotional, and social needs of GBV survivors. Through AWSAD, Maria has become a powerful voice for women’s rights, building a legacy of change and hope for many survivors.
AWSAD's Impact – Empowering Survivors and Changing Lives
AWSAD operates 6 safe shelters - 4 of them supported by UNFPA - where survivors of GBV can seek refuge and rebuild their lives nationwide. But the organization's work goes far beyond offering a safe place. It’s about offering dignity, providing skills, and creating pathways to independence. AWSAD provides a package of services, including madical assistance, legal aid, counseling, vocational training, and advocacy for women’s rights.
One example that stands out in Maria’s memory is the story of Amina*, a woman who came to AWSAD after fleeing an abusive marriage. Amina had been a victim of child marriage and endured years of violence before she found the courage to leave. At AWSAD’s shelter, she received legal assistance to dissolve the marriage, emotional support, and access to vocational training. Today, Amina is a successful small business owner and an advocate for women’s rights, using her own experience to empower other women in her community.
“Seeing women like Amina reclaim their lives and thrive is the reason I do this work,” says Maria. “It is incredibly rewarding to witness the resilience of these women and to be a part of their journey toward healing and independence.”
AWSAD also works relentlessly to change cultural attitudes surrounding GBV, particularly in rural communities where harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage are still prevalent. Through community outreach, legal advocacy, and partnerships with local leaders, Maria and her team are pushing for a shift in societal norms that often perpetuate violence against women and girls.
Strengthening Advocacy and Paving the Way Forward
The work of AWSAD would not be possible without the support of partners like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Since its partnership with UNFPA, AWSAD has been able to reach more women, extend its services, and increase its capacity to fight GBV across Ethiopia. Through UNFPA’s support, AWSAD has been able to advocate for stronger legal protections, educate communities about GBV, and expand its outreach efforts, ensuring more women and girls can access the help they need.
“UNFPA has been a key partner in our mission to end GBV,” Maria explains. “Their support has allowed us to strengthen our programs, expand our reach - also, in humanitarian crises - and make a more significant impact. They have helped us advocate for better legal protections for women and ensure that survivors have access to the necessary resources to rebuild their lives.”
Looking ahead, Maria remains optimistic. However, she acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. The fight against GBV and harmful practices requires systemic change and ongoing efforts to shift cultural attitudes. Maria’s vision is to continue working with UNFPA and other partners to create a society where women and girls can live free from violence and have the opportunity to fulfill their potential.
As she looks to the future, Maria remains determined. "I want to see a day when no woman has to endure the suffering of GBV. We can make that happen, but we all need to stand together and continue fighting for women’s rights."
Through AWSAD’s partnership with UNFPA, Maria Munir is not only helping to protect survivors but is shaping the future of Ethiopia—one where gender equality, justice, and safety for women and girls are a reality for all.
*Name changed for protection and safety reasons.
