Petition launched calling for the release of 15 year old girl

Amnesty International Australia has opened a petition calling for the immediate release and waive of punishment of the 15 year old Maldivian girl convicted of fornication and sentenced to lashing.

The petition calls to “release the girl immediately and unconditionally, and ensure that she is not flogged or otherwise punished.”

It also states that survivors of rape or other forms of sexual abuse need counselling and support rather than prosecution and that the 15 year old girl must be provided with adequate and appropriate protective and support services.

The petition which was opened for signature with a target of 15,000 has seen over 10,000 signatures within two days.

The girl was raped by her stepfather and another man, but was convicted of fornication following a confession in court and sentenced to 100 lashes and eight months’ house arrest. The sentence has been criticised by the international community.