"We Cannot Remain Silent"

MEWSo's Executive Director, Halaleh Taheri, speaks at the online Annual General Meeting, 2026.

Welcome, and thank you all for joining us today. It is a real pleasure to see our members, partners, funders, trustees, volunteers, staff and supporters here with us.

As we gather today, we cannot ignore the difficult reality of the world around us. Across the Middle East and North Africa, millions of people continue to face conflict, displacement, violence and uncertainty. Women and families from Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Yeman, Palestine, Kurdistan and many other communities continue to carry enormous pain and anxiety for their loved ones, often while trying to rebuild their lives here in the UK.

At the same time, we are witnessing the rise of far-right extremism and racism across our society. This is creating new fears within our communities. Many of the women we support tell us they are worried about being judged because of where they come from, how they dress, the language they speak or for their faith. Some have experienced harassment and threats. Parents worry about their children travelling to school. Young women are anxious to go out alone. Families who have lived here for decades feel they no longer belong or are no longer safe.

We cannot remain silent in the face of racism, hatred and fascism.

We also support many migrants and refugees who turn to us in times of need. Recent changes to immigration laws have left many feeling vulnerable and uncertain about their future. At MEWSo, we will continue to stand up for their rights and will not let them down.

We have stood alongside trade unions, women's organisations, refugee organisations and human rights groups, to state clearly that there is no place for racism or fascism in our communities. We believe in solidarity. We believe that every person deserves dignity, safety and respect, regardless of their background. Together, we will continue to stand up for justice, equality and safety.

These national and global events don't just stay on our television screens or in the newspapers. They arrive at our front doors every single day.

The women who come to us are carrying the weight of everything happening around them. They worry about family members trapped in conflict. They worry about loved ones they cannot contact. They struggle with trauma, isolation, financial hardship and uncertainty about the future. These pressures add to everyday life challenges they already face.

It means that the work of our advisers, counsellors and staff has become even more demanding. Every day they support women facing domestic abuse, mental health crises, homelessness, immigration issues, poverty, discrimination and social isolation. They listen with compassion, they advocate tirelessly, and they help women navigate systems that can often feel confusing, inaccessible and overwhelming.

For many women, approaching public authorities or large organisations can be intimidating. Language barriers, bureaucracy, cultural differences and previous negative experiences often prevent them from getting the help they need. Our organisation bridges that gap. We are trusted because we understand their experiences. We speak their languages, understand their cultures, and provide support with dignity and without judgement.

Today, through the reports and case studies we have presented, you know some of these stories. They demonstrate the challenges our communities face, the incredible resilience of the women we serve, and the impact that collective support can have.

Despite all these challenges, we remain hopeful.

Our organisation was built by women who understand hardship. We know what resilience looks like because we have lived it ourselves. We are fighters and survivors. We have learned that even during the darkest times, communities become stronger when they stand together.

We know that we cannot do this work alone. Partnership has never been more important. By working alongside local authorities, other charities, health services, community organisations and volunteers, we can provide stronger, more effective support and ensure that no woman is left behind.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude.

To our incredible staff, thank you for your professionalism, compassion and commitment. You go far beyond your job descriptions every single day, and our communities are stronger because of your dedication.

A huge thanks to our volunteers and our Board of Trustees. Thank you for your guidance, your leadership and your continued belief in our vision.

To our funders, including Westminster, Islington, and Hackney Councils, and all those who have invested in our work, thank you for trusting us. Your support enables us to continue reaching women who might otherwise have no where else to turn. And to our partners across London and beyond, thank you for believing in us and choosing to work alongside us.

Finally, I want to thank every woman who has trusted us with her story. Your courage inspires us every day. You remind us why this work matters.

As we look to the future, our promise remains the same. We will continue to build partnerships, strengthen our communities and defend the values of justice, equality and human dignity. Together, we will continue to build hope, resilience and a better future where every woman has the opportunity to live safely, with dignity and with confidence. Thank you.

Halaleh Taheri

Founder & Executive Director, MEWSo