Name: For these women, reading is a daring act
Uploaded: 2015-02-18T16:04:44Z
Duration: 4 min 56 s
Description: In some parts of the world, half of the women lack basic reading and writing skills. The reasons vary, but in many cases, literacy isn't valued by fathers, husbands, even mothers. Photographer and TED Fellow Laura Boushnak traveled to countries including Yemen, Egypt and Tunisia to highlight brave women -- schoolgirls, political activists, 60-year-old moms -- who are fighting the statistics.

In some parts of the world, half of the women lack basic reading and writing skills. The reasons vary, but in many cases, literacy isn't valued by fathers, husbands, even mothers. Photographer and TED Fellow Laura Boushnak traveled to countries including Yemen, Egypt and Tunisia to highlight brave women -- schoolgirls, political activists, 60-year-old moms -- who are fighting the statistics.

Laura Boushnak: For these women, reading is a daring act

For these women, reading is a daring act

In Arab regions, a photographer documents women transcending barriers through education, showcasing stories of empowerment.

Reflecting on literacy's power, women in the Arab world share transformative tales, from battling illiteracy to political activism.

A vivid call to action: "Don't accept their enslavement, for your mother birthed you free," encapsulates the fight for women's education.