Dr. Luay Shabaneh, Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), called on the Federal Minister for Law, Justice and Human Rights Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar to discuss ongoing collaboration and future priorities in advancing human rights, gender equality and the protection of women and vulnerable populations in Pakistan. Secretary Ministry of Human Rights Mr. Abdul Khalique Shaikh was also present during the meeting.
During the meeting, both sides acknowledged the long-standing and productive partnership between the Ministry of Human Rights and UNFPA. This collaboration has supported key initiatives aligned with Pakistan’s constitutional obligations and international commitments.
Dr Luay Shabaneh highlighted several ongoing joint initiatives, including efforts to end child marriage through strengthened legal frameworks and community-based awareness programmes. Progress on the coordinated helpline for complaints related to gender-based violence and human rights violations against women was also discussed, with emphasis on ensuring victim-centered support and effective referral mechanisms.
Both sides reviewed comprehensive efforts to address gender-based violence (GBV), including prevention, protection, and response strategies. UNFPA’s support in policy development, capacity building of service providers, and awareness-raising initiatives was acknowledged. The recently developed National Strategy for Male Involvement in addressing GBV was also discussed, focusing on engaging men and boys as agents of change.
The meeting also included a discussion on the implementation and effectiveness of Anti-Rape Crisis Cells, focusing on strengthening institutional response mechanisms, enhancing coordination among stakeholders, and ensuring timely justice, as well as psychosocial and rehabilitation support for survivors.
Reaffirming their shared commitment, both sides agreed to continue close collaboration to advance gender equality, enhance protection mechanisms and promote a rights-based approach to development in Pakistan.
