Somaia Ramish

Somaia Ramish is a poet, journalist and influential voice in the world of literature and human rights activism. She currently also pursues a PhD program in the field of Persian Literature in the prestigious University of Delhi, India. As the founder of Baamdaad, House of Poetry-in- Exile, Somaia Ramish has spearheaded a protest movement against censorship and repression of literary and artistic endeavors in Afghanistan and beyond. This movement serves as a beacon of hope, uniting artists and poets worldwide in solidarity with Afghan artists and poets who face bans on their creative expressions imposed by the Taliban.

Somaia Ramish’s call for poets around the world to stand by her side in this struggle, met with worldwide support that culminated in a collection of over one hundred poems from highly acclaimed poets from around the world in solidarity with her cause. These poems captivate readers with their eloquent and thought-provoking verses that condemn censorship and silencing of Afghan poets’ voices. The collection will soon be published in various languages. Her dedication to documenting the struggles and politics of our time is evident in her latest published work, the voluminous book titled Half a Century of Struggle and Politics in 2022. This comprehensive work delves deep into the complexities of societal issues, offering profound insights and thoughtful analysis of Afghan history and politics. Not limited to her literary pursuits, Somaia Ramish has also made significant contributions to the political landscape. She served as an elected member of Herat’s provincial council, a populous western province in Afghanistan, from 2014 to 2018. During this period, she actively worked representing and advocating for the rights of the people especially women. As a refugee in the Netherlands, she managed to regain her voice. She publishes her opinions in NRC, De Standaard and 360 Magazine.