Geneva, September 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
An Indian researcher from Jammu and Kashmir has urged the international community to view the region beyond a predominantly geopolitical framework and pay greater attention to the lived experiences, aspirations and development of its people.
Anika Nazir, a community development professional and researcher from Jammu and Kashmir, made the appeal through a video presentation played during the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva.
The session is being held at the Palais des Nations from September 7 to October 7.
In her intervention, Nazir called for greater focus on verified facts and ground-level realities while cautioning against narratives shaped by misinformation and disinformation. She specifically criticised what she described as Pakistan’s information warfare concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
She also highlighted the changing role of women in the region, saying their experiences should not be viewed solely through conflict, loss and adversity. According to Nazir, women in Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly participating in education, entrepreneurship, professional careers, livelihoods and community leadership.
“True empowerment is not simply giving women a voice. It is creating a society that is willing to listen when women speak,” she said.
Nazir urged the UNHRC and other international peace-focused platforms to adopt what she described as a fresh perspective on Jammu and Kashmir.
“Look at its women building, look at its youth dreaming, look at its community rebuilding. Do not just reduce it to our geopolitical narrative,” she said, describing J&K as a “living society” with people, aspirations and dreams.
She argued that people from Jammu and Kashmir, particularly women and communities involved in social and economic development, should have a greater role in shaping international discussions about the region.
Her presentation focused on dignity, development, resilience and peace, alongside the complex political and historical issues surrounding Jammu and Kashmir.
Nazir said the region’s people should be able to articulate their own experiences and aspirations on international platforms, rather than having their story defined solely through geopolitical narratives.
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