The Ministry of Human Rights, in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan, the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC), and the Pakistan Girl Guides Association (PGGA), celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child under the global theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.”
The event brought together diverse and key stakeholders, including representatives from government institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and youth advocates working on child rights and gender equality. The forum served as a platform to reaffirm collective commitment towards advancing the rights, empowerment, and protection of girls across Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary, Ministry of Human Rights, Me. Abdul Khalique Sheikh emphasized that girls are not merely recipients of support but active agents of change who lead progress within their communities. He noted that this year’s global theme serves as a reminder to listen to girls, invest in their leadership, and remove barriers that hinder their growth. He reaffirmed that Pakistan remains steadfast in promoting gender equality and advancing the rights of girls through education, health, protection, and participation.
He highlighted that the Constitution guarantees equality before the law under Article 25 and ensures the protection of women and children under Article 35. Pakistan’s ratification of key international conventions, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and ILO Conventions on child labour, underpins its national child protection framework.
The Ministry of Human Rights continues to work towards creating an enabling environment where every girl can learn, lead, and live with dignity. Through its collaborations, legislation, and awareness initiatives, the Ministry reaffirms its resolve to build a Pakistan where every girl’s potential is recognized, her rights are protected, and her dreams are within reach.
