How you can protect 10-year-old rape survivor from "honor" killing

	Save 10-year-old rape  survivor from "honor"  killing
	Act Now 10-year-old Brishna is a rape survivor who is now facing death threats from her family and community following her assault. Rape survivors - and women who are perceived to have otherwise offended customs - are deemed to have brought deep shame upon their families. In response, they face the threat of "honor" killings to restore the family's name. The Afghan Penal Code carries reduced sentences for murder on the basis of "honor" as a motivation. Urge the Afghan authorities to provide full protection for Brishna and those who are working to protect her. Dear Tracy, 10-year-old Brishna was raped last May. Instead of being comforted by those closest to her following the attack, Brishna's life is now at even greater risk. The women's rights defender who was assisting Brishna reported being told that Brishna's male relatives want to "kill her and dump her in the river." In Afghanistan, where Brishna lives, women are still seen to be the embodiments of family honor. Rape survivors - and women who are perceived to have otherwise offended customs - are deemed to have brought deep shame upon their families. In response, they face the threat of "honor" killings to restore the family's name. The Afghan Penal Code carries reduced sentences for murder on the basis of "honor" as a motivation. Demand that Afghan authorities ensure that Brishna - and those who are trying to protect her - receive full protection from the state. The local mullah, or religious leader, who is accused of raping Brishna has since been arrested and charged with rape of a minor. He was transferred to a prison in Kabul. Despite the risk to her life and the continued death threats she still faces, local police returned Brishna to her family in July, while her doctor, Dr. Hassina Sarwari, also faces death threats for protecting Brishna. Stand up for Brishna and other women and girls like her. Call on authorities to repeal these harmful laws and end discrimination against survivors of sexual violence. Help ensure the suspected perpetrator is brought to justice with a prompt and fair trial, and that the threats against Brishna and Dr. Sarwari are fully investigated. Protecting women and girls from sexual violence is every government's obligation - not an option. In solidarity, Jasmine Heiss Amnesty International USA