Dr. Faqir Hussain

Born during dark and turbulent phases of our national history (General Zia’s Martial Law), the AF strived and emerged – alongside the HRCP – to challenge the oppressive rule. It struggled for restoration of democracy, pluralist society, fundamental rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. The Regime – aligned with religious orthodoxy – was systematically curtailing basic human rights and women were the target of repression. In such adverse milieu, a few resolute and courageous women, notably Asma Jahangir, Shahla Zia and Nigar Ahmad, etc, chose to establish rights-based movement, led by the AF and HRCP.
My association with both organisations dates back to the late 1980s: Initially, as an academic, while conducting research on the project, “Status of Women in the NWFP” (now KP), I engaged with them. Subsequently, as Secretary, Law & Justice Commission of Pakistan, my organisation utilised their research and empirical insights, in formulating proposals for legal and judicial reforms. I also had the privilege of serving as a resource person for the AF on legal/judicial issues relating to fundamental rights and women’s empowerment.
It is gratifying to note that, through sustained intellectual rigour and principled advocacy, the AF has earned public trust and institutional credibility. I extend my sincere felicitations and best wishes for its continued success.