In far too many international conferences held in the UK in recent years, overseas speakers’ panel chairs are empty (Future conference in doubt as academics say speakers refused visas, 26 September). Women, in particular, whether academics, human rights lawyers, grassroots feminist activists, researchers, if they come from developing and especially conflict-afflicted countries, are likely to have their visa applications refused on the most dubious grounds.
The case of Nigerian lawyer Dr Attah is not unique. Women from overseas invited to speak at meetings addressing important gender and human rights issues such as violence against women, the plight of women and girls as migrants and refugees, the roles of women in peace-building and in law reform, are routinely refused entry to the UK. Their absence diminishes the value of these events. Their voices are crucial to the resolution of global, regional and national problems. This situation is likely to get even worse in the context of Brexit, making the UK the least appropriate location for international conferences.
It was distressing that at this year’s UN commission on the status of women, held annually in New York, many of our sisters from those countries on President Trump’s refusal list were absent. Are we becoming as racist and misogynist as the White House? One of the UK’s greatest assets was our academic prowess and our capacity and keenness to engage with people from around the world. Our reputation for fairness and integrity is deteriorating fast.
Margaret Owen
Director, Widows for Peace through Democracy
• Including your own headline (Saudi women granted the right to drive cars, 27 September), I have noticed the patriarchal language of the reports of this change – “granted the right”, “will be allowed” and similar wording. Surely having their right to drive recognised, or having the imposed ban lifted is more accurate?
Roy Grimwood
Market Dayton, Shropshire
• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters
