The European Commission Representation in Ireland is currently hosting a photo exhibition entitled Another side to Afghanistan. This remarkable display gives an insight into what life is really like for Afghans living in rural areas.
The photos were taken by Terence O'Malley, current chairman of SAFE (Support for Afghan Further Education), during his visits to the country.
The exhibition was launched by Dr Michael Woods T.D., Chairman of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs at European Union House, Dublin. At the opening of the exhibition Dr. Woods said, “This exhibition reminds us that Afghanistan is not an abstract foreign policy issue but a place and a home to ordinary individuals struggling to make a better life for themselves. These are the people for whom SAFE has worked with unwavering dedication for almost 20 years.”
Martin Territt, Director of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, welcomed the exhibition and said, “We all know of the decades of strife that Afghanistan has been through, but these pictures show another side. There is life away from the violence. This exhibition is also a testament to what one small organisation like SAFE does. By starting small, real differences can be made to peoples' lives, and education can benefit a community.”
SAFE Director Terence O'Malley explained why the exhibition was taking place by saying, “This is another side to Afghanistan. It's not about the cities, the misappropriation of aid, or waste. It's about rural areas. Afghanistan is a land of tolerance, humour, hospitality and trust which does not always come across in the western Media.”
Included in the display are some of the traditional textiles and embroidery made by the rural communities supported by SAFE.
This exhibition runs from 19 January to 6 February 2009 at European Union House, 18 Dawson Street, Dublin 2.