Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Malala Yousafzai, will receive an honorary Canadian citizenship later this month.
Ms Yousafzai is set to visit Canada on April 12, and will address the Canadian Parliament before officially receiving the Canadian citizenship, which was first bestowed upon her in 2014.
At 15 years old, Ms Yousafzai was the target of Taliban assassins after she became an outspoken advocate for the right of girls to learn and to attend school. She has since become an international spokesperson for girls’ education, and the rights of women and girls.
The Prime Minister has said that he will take this opportunity to meet with Ms Yousafzai to discuss girls’ empowerment through education, and how they can actively contribute to the sustainable development of their communities and countries.
“Ms Yousafzai’s courageous response to those who threatened her life, and her advocacy for girls’ education, has inspired many millions of people around the world,” said Prime Minister Trudeau. “Her story is one of determination and dignity, and Canada is proud to call her an honorary citizen of this great country.”
“The people of Canada are leading the world in their response to the refugee crisis,” said Ms Yousafzai. “I am honoured by Parliament’s invitation and look forward to visiting this great nation of heroes.”
Ms Yousafzai is one of just six people to receive honorary Canadian citizenship. The others are Raoul Wallenberg, Nelson Mandela, the 14th Dalai Lama, Aung San Suu Kyi and the Aga Khan.
