'The Sirens', the song against the silence imposed on Afghan women

A new song titled Le Sirene has been released by Italian singer-songwriter Martina Attili and Afghan artist Alia Ansari, who resides in London. The track was created to support women in Afghanistan and extends its message to all women worldwide who face persecution and violation. It combines two distinct voices and experiences into a song centered around the freedom to choose, live, and be heard. The song was initially written by Martina Attili but took on a new dimension with the addition of Alia Ansari’s contribution. Ansari wrote and performed a section in Dari, adding her personal experience and awareness as an Afghan woman and musician. She highlights how powerful a woman's voice can be and how painful it is when that voice is silenced. The collaboration brings together two perspectives, Italian and Afghan, to create a piece that confronts the violence faced by women directly, listing acts such as rape, torture, hanging, killing, ridicule, insults, and abduction. However, the song also addresses situations where a voice is misunderstood, restricted, or ignored. This message is directed at women while also engaging men and examining how we learn, or fail to learn, to listen and understand each other. Attili explained that her motivation for joining the project stemmed from her deep connection to freedom. She emphasized that everyone should have the right to make their choices and decide how to live their lives. As a singer, she feels compelled to fight for the right to sing. “I wanted to bring my voice into this song not just for the women and girls of Afghanistan, but for all women who struggle for the right to choose, create, and be heard,” Ansari said. She expressed hope that the song would carry these women’s voices beyond borders and remind the world that they are still there, continuing to dream and resist. Martina and Alia have linked the project to supporting the activities of the NGO Nove Caring Humans in Afghanistan. This organization has worked alongside Afghan women for 13 years and, in the past five, has continued to open spaces for work, training, and self-determination together with them. They have not interrupted support for the most vulnerable communities and the most pressing needs in the country. The collaboration between Attili and Ansari began with Attili’s initial composition, which evolved significantly after Ansari joined. Her inclusion brought a unique cultural and linguistic element through her Dari lyrics, enriching the song’s narrative and emotional depth. The video clip accompanying the song visually reinforces the themes of resistance and resilience, depicting scenes that reflect the struggles and strength of women facing oppression. Both artists have spoken about the importance of using music as a tool for social change. Attili highlighted the role of art in advocating for human rights and freedoms, while Ansari focused on the power of collective action and international solidarity. Their partnership aims to amplify the voices of Afghan women and draw attention to the ongoing challenges they face under current conditions. The release of Le Sirene coincides with increased global interest in the situation of women in Afghanistan following recent political changes. The song serves as both a tribute to the enduring spirit of Afghan women and a call to action for greater awareness and support. The collaboration with Nove Caring Humans underscores the commitment to tangible assistance and long-term engagement with local communities. The song is available on major streaming platforms, with proceeds going toward the NGO’s initiatives in Afghanistan. The artists have encouraged listeners to engage with the cause beyond just listening, urging them to support the efforts of organizations working on the ground.