EPP Group supports Malala Yousafzai's efforts to change the world through education

“Today, the European Parliament received a lesson in courage, strong determination and generous humanity from Malala Yousafzai, a girl who I strongly believe will change the world. Malala gave up weakness, fear and hopelessness for strength, power and courage. She is a heroine for her generation and for us all. Not only is she fighting for the right to education and freedom for women in Pakistan's Swat Valley but she is also the face of every woman, every boy and every girl who has raised their voice for their rights. She provides inspiration and hope for democracy, freedom and human rights all over the world”, said the Chairman of the EPP Group, Joseph Daul, commenting on the awarding of the 2013 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to Malala.

“Our hope for a better future stands in young people like Malala Yousafzai. The right to education is a human right. As Malala so eloquently put it, “One child, one teacher, one pen and one book can change the world.” For the sake of our young and future generations, it is our foremost duty to support and promote all those who are fighting for the basic rights of any human being, in particular for children and women. I am proud that for the last twenty five years, by awarding the Sakharov Prize, the European Parliament has put human rights on the world map. It is our small contribution to all those symbols of integrity, courage and tolerance, but most of all, human dignity", concluded Joseph Daul.