Iraq sex traffic

Layla's story reminded me in many ways of Malala's in many ways. Both are at a disadvantage being born in countries that do not grant women all of their human rights. However, this does not stop these women. They both fight intensely for their cause despite being harmed severely. Similar to Malala's getting shot in the head, Layla was a former prostitute and rape victim. This seems to be almost culturally accepted in Iraq. The article stated that "more than nine per cent of respondents between the ages of fifteen and fifty-four said they had been subjected to sexual violence." These crimes often go unreported due to a fear of shame from the community. This culture baffles me. I find it very hard to understand and do not feel qualified to speak knowledgeably about middle eastern culture. Having overcome extremely adverse circumstances and being a force for good against sex trafficing, stories like Layla's give me hope for an eventual larger force for good.