Policy Engagement with Parliamentary Leadership on Tobacco Control

An Aurat Foundation delegation comprising Mr. Syed Safdar Raza, Ms. Mehak Fatima Jafry and Mr. Shafi Agha met with Dr. Shahida Rehmani, Member of the National Assembly (MNA) and Secretary of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) to discuss evidence-based policy measures for strengthening tobacco control in Pakistan.

During the meeting, the delegation shared the Pakistan Tobacco Factsheet and the research report, “Revenue Loss Due to Illicit Cigarette Trade in Pakistan,” highlighting the significant public health and economic costs associated with tobacco use and the illicit tobacco trade. The discussion focused on the need for stronger tobacco taxation, effective enforcement against illicit trade and enhanced parliamentary support for evidence-based tobacco control policies.

Dr. Shahida Rehmani acknowledged the importance of addressing the growing health, social and economic burden of tobacco consumption and emphasized the role of parliamentarians in advancing legislative and policy reforms. The engagement reinforced Aurat Foundation’s commitment to working with parliamentary leaders to promote informed policymaking and strengthen tobacco control efforts in line with Pakistan’s public health priorities.