Ms Nousheen Khurram, National Program Manager Jazba and Mr Waqar Ahmed, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning officer met Ms Romina Khurshid Alam, MNA/Convener national parliamentary taskforce on SDGs at the National assembly building on 22nd June 2022. The visiting delegation from Aurat Foundation discussed different areas of collaboration with the honorable convener parliamentary taskforce on SDGs especially SDG 5 (gender equality).

Aurat Foundation Quetta organized a Two-Days session on Role of Parliamentarians in Ensuring Gender Equality through Implementation of SDG 5 in Balochistan Province, Quetta in collaboration with South Asia Partnership Pakistan with the financial support of Global Affairs Ganada (GAC) on 15th & 16th July, 2021 in Quetta Serena Hotel.

The objective of this activity is that the role of parliamentarians and politicians, as publicly elected agents, representing voice of the common citizens, has been globally recognized as fundamental to the achievement of Agenda 2030. Because of their strategic foothold in the government, dialogue and debate led by the parliamentarians goes a long way, in mainstreaming and accelerating action plans on SDGs.

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted on 25 September 2015 by Heads of States and Governments at a special UN summit. The foundation of the 2030 agenda lies in 3 Principles: Universality, Integration and Leaving No one Behind. The Agenda is a commitment through 17 SDGs and 169 targets to eradicate poverty and achieve inclusive and participatory sustainable development by 2030 world-wide.

Pakistan was amongst the first countries to establish a Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs and declare the Global Agenda 2030 as its national agenda through a resolution of the parliament in 2016. This manifest highest-level political ownership of the global agenda and strong parliamentary accountability on the implementation of SDGs. National SDGs framework was approved by National Economic Council in March 2018 and provincial and states SDGs frameworks are in process of development and approval. The first secretariat of the Taskforce is established within the premises of the Parliament House at Islamabad. The Parliamentary SDGs Taskforces were established in all four provincial assemblies as well.

The parliamentarians in general, and Parliamentary Taskforces on SDGs in specific are mandated to review progress on implementation on SDGs, provide legislative support, aware fellow parliamentarians on Agenda 2030, ensure availability and commitment of resources for achieving the SDGs, and oversee the allocation and utilization of funds by the Federal as well as Provincial Governments.

Aurat Foundation, under Global Affair Canada supported Jazba Programme, is aiming to conducted two-day's session with the members of the Provincial Assembly of Balochistan on their role in ensuring gender-equality through implementation of SDG-5. The main objectives of the session are to analyse current situation of SDG 5 in Balochistan Province, aware about the parliamentary tools to ensure its implementation, develop an action plan and ensure a cross-party political support for gender equality in the province.

The session started with the recitation of Holy Quran. Mr. Allauddin Khilji, Resident Director Aurat Foundation Quetta welcomed the participants and introduction of participants. After the introduction Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Director Programmes AF has given the brief introduction of AF / Jazba project. After this, Mr. Ali Imran (Consultant), has given a brief presentation on Global Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and he also briefed about the Members Provincial Assembly on their role in ensuring gender-equality through implementation of SDG-5.

Further, Mr. Ali explained the role of Parliamentarians in this regard. Discussion was held for the conservation of SDG 5 and participants shared their views and thoughts. He further said that the role of parliamentarians is very important in the consultation and decision making process of Gender Equality policy in Balochistan. He added that member of Provincial Assembly can provide legislative accountability representation and budget support to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 5. The SDGs need to play the full role of MPAs.

Mr. Qadir Nayel said that the biggest problem in Balochistan is data collection but the provincial government is working on it. The ongoing development work in my constituency is in accordance with the SDGs in our central council. There are also women from whom development schemes related to women have been included in the PSDP. We believe in SDGs.

Mr. Sana Baloch, Mr. Ahmed Nawaz and Mr. Zabid Reiki said that commissions are formed for implementation of laws but unfortunately after legislation here majority of laws are not rules of business. SDGs task force formed in the Provincial Assembly but in three years, there has not been a single meeting conducted. 25 MPAs are member in the SDG task force committee, but the majority may not know about the SDGs.

Participants discussed inherent and historical role of women. They also proposed interventions at research, policy advocacy and grassroots’ mobilisation for ensuring women’s role in SDGs. Many examples are shared that how small behavioral change lead to big evolution. The participants appreciated the work of Aurat Foundation, South Asia Partnership Pakistan and Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and had given their valuable input in this regard.

Aurat Foundation organized the meeting with Women Voter Network, political workers and young activists of JAZBA on 12th July, 2021 at Rawalpindi district. The meeting comprised of two groups. One with the political workers and other with the women voter network. It was an interactive meeting that how JAZBA is working and what are the spaces that can be created with this project. It was participatory and healthy discussion.

Aurat Foundation and Club de Madrid organized an online session "Integrating Vulnerable Communities Inputs to Inclusive Development Roadmap in Pakistan".
The session brought together Kjell Mange Bondevik, former Prime Minister of Norway and Member of Club de Madrid with the leaders from religious and ethnic minorities to strengthen strategies and foster consensus between state and minorities around the need to implement the Sustainable Development Goals in an inclusive and participatory manner. Prime Minister Bondevik highlighted the need of interfaith harmony and establishment of forums for dialogue between state and ethnic and religious minorities. He also highlighted that the key legal, political and cultural steps are to be taken to create an inclusive environment for development. Norway has been successful to reduce inter-group tensions and to integrate the migrated and indigenous local Sami communities in Agenda 2030 dialogue process. He appreciated the contribution made by the Pakistan origin immigrants to Norway and vows his support for the integration of religious and ethnic minorities and interfaith harmony.
Mr. Naeem Mirza, Executive Director Aurat Foundation highlighted that the women from religious and ethnic communities are at the risks of multiple vulnerabilities and recommended that there should be exchange of information and knowledge between global north and south. He also said that women's empowerment can be better ensured with their political participation, at all levels.

Mr. Ramesh Singh Arora MPA highlighted that the religious and cultural tourism is key and it can support further integration of Sikh community development in Pakistan. He said that the sikh brethren from all over world acknowledges the warm hospitality and secure environment provided to them in Pakistan.
Ms. Mary James Gill, former MPA highlighted the need of socio-economic development of the marganlised groups within Christian communities. She also stressed for the inclusive curriculum and effective participation of minorities in the mainstream political discourse. Mr. Qadir Ali Nail MPA Balochistan underlined that there is significant decrease in the number of terrorist attacks against Hazara Community in the recent past. He stressed the need for inter-sectarian dialogue to ensure peace and development in Balochistan province.

Ms. Tanzila Qambrani MPA said that the Sheedi tribes in Sindh and Balochistan needs to be socio-economically developed. She also stressed the need of inclusion of minority groups in implementation and monitoring of Agenda 2030 in Pakistan.

Mr. Ali Imran, Senior Expert Club de Madrid said that the inclusion in anchored in two principles; first the Article 36 of the constitutions which binds that the state shall safeguard the legitimate rights and interest of the minorities and secondly Agenda 2030 principle of "Leaving no one behind". He said that in Pakistan's complex political culture and diverse society, it is particularly important to adopt an inclusive approach to include religious and ethnic minorities inputs to planning, implementation and monitoring of Agenda 2030.

Since Pakistan is going to present its Voluntary National Review Report (VNR) to High Level Political Forum in 2021, the panelist and participants stressed to include religious and ethnic minorities inputs.

Mr. Rafael Moreno from Club de Madrid summarized the discussion and vowed to continue Club de Madrid support to Pakistan under Shared Societies Programme. The session was attended by large group of civil society including academia, social & political activists, lawyers, women leaders, media, students and others.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Pakistan's economy has suffered badly. Social distancing, lockdown, and the closure of businesses have had enormous economic consequences for small wage earners. In this regard, The UAE Embassy, in accordance with the UAE's humanitarian and developmental framework, launched the women empowerment initiative under the title "Paving the way" in cooperation with the Aurat Foundation and the UN Women 16th February 2021 at Serena Hotel, Islamabad.

The Chief Guest of events was H.E. Hammad Obaid Alzaabi, Ambassador of UAE to Pakistan, Ms. Sharmeela Rasool, Country Representativity UN Women and Dr. Alyia Hashmi Khan, Treasurer of Aurat Foundation Board of Governors and Members of Prime Minister Economic Advisory Council.

Ms. Amina Javeed, Representative of Embassy of UAE gave the welcome remarks and shared the programme introduction of paving the ways. The purpose behind inviting them today is to provide hands-on information to skilled home-based women about the on-going latest trends and how by using these trends they can generate more profit for their business.


The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ambassador for Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zaabi, has maintained that his country is working in partnership with other countries and the United Nations to promote the rights of women and girls across the world. Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zaabi highlighted the role of women in the development of family and society and reminded that the UAE is fully committed to the promotion of women's rights and considers the empowerment of women fundamental to the development of a modern and progressive society. He said women participate on an equal basis in civil, economic and political life in the UAE. He recalled that according to the IMF World Competitiveness Yearbook 2020, the UAE ranked first in the female parliamentary representation index, as women comprise 50pc of the Federal National Council (FNC). Women make up 34pc of the Emirates Mars Mission team that successfully launched "Hope Probe" to discover the red planet, which interred the Mars orbit last week. Sarah Al Amiri, the 33-year-old scientist, led the UAE's Hope orbiter mission to Mars. The ambassador thanked the Aurat Foundation and UN Women for supporting the women empowerment cause in Pakistan.


Ms. Sharmeela Rasool, Country Representativity UN Women said that with COVID-19, the multidimensional gender inequalities and gender gaps have exacerbated. Women are immensely affected, as they are more exposed to health risks, loss of income, take on a larger share of unpaid care work and face a heightened threat of gender-based violence during social confinement measures. She focused on to take joint efforts for achieving the gender equality.


Dr. Alyia Hashmi Khan said that Better and more meaningful financial inclusion may prove to be the key to unlocking the potential for micro and small enterprises to grow, reducing the exposure of poor and rural communities to income shocks, dynamizing growth, and promoting more sustainable and equitable development. Digital channels and innovative product designs have the potential to offer new and better value propositions for women.

On this occasion, Ms. Aliaa Sarwat Mustafa Al Serafi, Wife of Egypt Ambassador and Ms. Marim Alfridi shared the best practices of women' ecnomic empowerment while Ms. Vaneeza Ahmed, model, actress and designer, Ms. Abida Malik, President Behbud Botique, Cafe Behbud and Behbud Crafts, Amber Qazi the CEO of Funky Bakes and Ms. Fiza Siddiqui, Ayra Clothes, Robina Akhtar, tailoring expert, and Robina Shafiq CEO of online and frozen food shared their success stories as entrepreneurs.

Ms. Mumtaz Mughal Director Programmes of Aurat Foundation thanked the UAE Embassy, UN Women, sparkers, community women leaders to join hands and make the event successful. The event concluded by distribution of sewing machines and other supplies to home-based workers with basic skills.

Aurat Foundation in collaboration of South Asia Partnership Pakistan organized a launching ceremony of its Research Study titled "Violence against Women & Girls in the Times of Covid-19 Pandemic" under the auspices of the project "JAZBA – Democracy and Empowered Women or Jamhoriat aur Baikhtiar Aurat" on Friday, 12 February, 2021 at Margala Hotel, Islamabad. The study was being launched on 12 February, which is Pakistani National Women's Day, to commemorate this day by paying tributes to all those who blazed the trail of struggle for women's rights and ending all forms of discrimination against them.

Launching ceremony was chaired by Ms. Shandana Gulzar Khan, Member, National Assembly of Pakistan and Chairperson, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians. Mr. Christopher Khng, Head of Cooperation, High Commission of Canada in Pakistan also graced the occasion with his virtual presence. Among them Dr. Aliya Hashmi Khan, Member Prime Minister Economic Advisory Council, Dr. Rakhshinda Perveen, Gender and GBV expert, Mr. Naeem Ahmad Mirza, Executive Director, Aurat Foundation Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Director Programmes, Aurat Foundation, Mr. Irfan Mufti, Team Leader JAZBA Project, SAP-Pk also spoke at the event.


Ms. Shandana Gulzar Khan, Member, National Assembly of Pakistan and Chairperson, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians said that there is dire need to end violence in our society so that everyone can breathe freely. There are opportunities to link such programmes with parliamentary platform of SGDs.


Mr. Christopher Khung, Head of Cooperation, High Commission of Canada in Pakistan stated that research report has pointed out some important trends of out of court settlements cases that needs to be focused to work on women survivors/victims of violence range from two-year-old girls to middle-aged married women. He said that women survivors/victims come from all socio-economic backgrounds – from the very poor to the middle class and violence occurs any and everywhere at education institutions, in offices, and at homes. He also stated that child sexual abuse and exploitation is a common problem in society and often ends in out of court settlements as women cave under pressure from family members, neighbors, relatives, community members, police officers and others who push women to drop their court cases and release the accused.


Ms. Aliya Hashmi, Board Member, member of Economic Advisory, stated that Aurat Foundation has been building women capacity from ages. She has given tribute to Ms. Nigar Ahmed and was thankful to her from all women community. She said that VAWG/VAW is a global pandemic. Anecdotal evidence has long suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the prevalence of VAW in society. In Pakistan, a country where men have long denied women their rights, VAW is common, backed by unsubstantiated notions of honour. This report shines a light on the problem and uses empirical qualitative and quantitative evidence to document the rise of VAW during the pandemic.


Mr. Naeem Ahmed Mirza, Executive Director, Aurat Foundation stated that there is global movement in the world for the elimination of violence against women and girls. UN should bound all countries in the world though treaty to take affirmative action for the elimination of violence against women and girls. He also stated that Implementation of laws is the responsibility of the duty bearers an State is responsible for legislation. Our parliamentarians should focus on the human and financial resources while enacting laws for women and girls. There is need to build visible, actual, inclusive alliances with the most vulnerable groups of women and girls including trans people amidst the pandemic COVID-19 to demonstrate solidarity and alignment of the agenda 2030.


Ms Mumtaz Mughal, Director Programmes stated that we all are here to present tribute to struggle of Pakistani women. We all are here to celebrate women's achievements and their struggle for women empowerment. She said that there is need to mainstream policies in context of gender and inclusion in all policies and budgets and actually allocating matching monetary resources to address the issue through gender and multidisciplinary experts and rehabilitation of the survivors of violence.


The key findings of the review and analysis of the data were presented by Dr. Rakhshinda Perveen. She said that 2297 cases of VAW reported in the 25 districts from January to December 2020. Despite the problem of underreporting during COVID and the limited sample size, the number of cases is shockingly high. Doing a month-to-month analysis of the cases reveals that at the peak of the pandemic in July, cases of VAW were at their highest. Following this, cases dropped again but rose in September due to a resurgence of COVID. 57% of all cases were reported from Punjab, 27% from Sindh, 8% from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 6% from Gilgit-Baltistan and 2% from Balochistan. Of all the provinces, Punjab reported the highest incidents of murder, rape, suicide, acid burning, kidnapping and miscellaneous violence against women cases (including domestic violence, child and forced marriages, dowry and inheritance). Sindh had the most "honour" killings in the country. The number of reported cases of abduction were the highest, followed by murder and rape. In Balochistan, the number of reported murders was the highest followed by the number of rapes. In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, murders were the highest followed by suicides and rapes. In Gilgit-Baltistan, suicides were the most prevalent followed by acid crimes and murder.

Speakers of an online session lauded the role of parliamentarians and NGOs are playing to ensure inclusive and participatory development for everyone, everywhere. The session titled "The Role of Parliamentarians in Ensuring Inclusive and Participatory Development in Pakistan", gathered wide ranging participants including 30 Members of the National and Provincial Assemblies' Parliamentary Taskforces on SDGs, as well as other eminent representatives, to exchange of ideas and good practices with the Former Prime Minister of Belgium and Club de Madrid Member, Yves Leterme, and Mr. Arnau Ramirez, Spanish Member of the Parliament.

The session was held under the aegis of Club de Madrid in partnership with the Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs, Aurat Foundation and Parliamentary Commission for Human Rights to find ways and means for supporting inclusive implementation of Agenda 2030 in Pakistan under the Shared Societies Project. The project aims to promote an inclusive approach to planning, implementation and monitoring of the Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals in Pakistan. The main objective of the project is to demonstrate that inclusion and participation of diverse social groups is key to effective implementation of the Agenda 2030/the Sustainable Development Goals in Pakistan.

Social inclusion, to leave no one behind, is a fundamental tenet of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – and it is the foundational aspiration of Club de Madrid's Shared Societies Project. Social inclusion is the foundation of Shared Societies – societies in which all individuals and identity groups have a common sense of belonging and responsibility, equal opportunities and a common bond to uphold the values of dignity and human rights. Club de Madrid's Shared Societies Project seeks to help United Nations Member States advance towards Shared Societies by adopting a holistic approach to the Sustainable Development Goals defined in Agenda 2030 – particularly Goal 16 to promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies. For the past ten years, this Project has been successfully providing guidance and expertise on the integration of the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainable development, focusing on the premise that all aspects of development are interrelated and interdependent.

With a socially diverse and constitutionally complex population of more than 207 million people (2017 census), Pakistan often faces political, economic and security challenges and has limited public financial resources to achieve Agenda 2030. The country is in dire need of a conversation on inter-group tensions, gender equality, the Sustainable Development Goals and, more recently, the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19.

The speakers said elected officials representing the voice of the people should ensure everyone member of the society is included in the development of national plans and policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of Agenda 2030.

The session shed light on the inclusion of marginalized and socially excluded groups in the planning, development and monitoring of national development plans aligned with Agenda 2030 in Pakistan. They underscore the importance of strong partnerships between state institutions, including parliaments, and civil society organizations representing vulnerable groups to achieve the 2030 Agenda objective of leaving no one behind.
The Speakers of the event included Mr. Yves Leterme, Member of Club de Madrid, Prime Minister of Belgium (2008, 2009-11), Mr. Arnau Ramirez Carner, Member of Spanish Parliament, Mr. Riaz Khan Fatyana, MNA & Convener National Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs, MNAs Ms. Shandana Gulzar Khan, Dr. Nausheen Hamid, Ghazala Saifi, Nafisa Khattak, Shazia Sobia, MPA Talat Naqvi, Ayesha Nawaz, Ayesha Bano, Nusrat Abbasi, Sabrina Javed, Mr. Naeem Ahmed Mirza, Executive Director Aurat Foundation and Mr. Ali Imran, Senior Expert Club de Madrid.

The sudden emergence of a pandemic Covid-19 has further exposed the vulnerabilities of poor and vulnerable section of society in Pakistan. Even before pandemic, poor were specially suffering due to slowing down of the economy, rising inflation and loss of jobs for manual and physical labour making specially women headed families at high risk and suffering from multidimensional inequality of opportunities.

It appears that in the absence of any vaccine in the world, the virus will continue to damage world’s most populous countries and nations, it will melt down their economies, put their current level of development decades back and might introduce demographic imbalance in coming days. Social and political unrest, deteriorating law and order situation and health catastrophes as predicted by a UN report might also occur as spillover effect of the epidemic.
Aurat Foundation Peshawar office team played their philanthropy role on voluntary basis to protect the most affected vulnerable populations in order address the most pressing needs. These include social service organizations focused on supporting low-income households, small businesses, immigrants, refugees, older adults, people with disabilities, and other communities vulnerable to the physical health, mental health and economic impacts of the pandemic.

AF Peshawar office arranged funds from different sources (friends and family) and distributed food item packages among 350 women. Approximately 100 persons (80 women and 20 men) were supported with cash grant from 3000 to 26000 rupees. Small business was also established for two deserving persons to earn their livelihood. distributed the food items and cash.

Aurat Foundation JAZBA team focused following probes, exploring new set of information to mark interventions necessary for women’s well-being, these were:

*  Knowledge (of women) about COVID -19 relief programs
*  Registration of marginalized women with government relief programs
*  Benefits of relief programs to marginalized women
*  Sectoral distribution of marginalized women benefitting from government run programs
*  Priority needs of women workers
*  Incidence of violence against women
*  Availability of health services to women in public hospitals
*  Preferences for pregnant women in the context of COVID-19
*  Community satisfaction level with the delivery of relief and assistance

In addition to sessions, AF JAZBA team identified 30 families from each district are selected for humanitarian assistance. Overall, 360 families will be benefited from humanitarian assistance initiatives. (5*30*12=1800) On average 5 persons from one family and aggregate of 4000 persons will benefit from the project initiatives.

Aurat Foundation organized a "Training of Trainers" on Community Leadership and Local Government System from 17-20 March, 2020 at Four Points Hotel, Lahore under Democracy and Empowered Women or Jamhuriat aur Baikhtiar Aurat "JAZBA Project. It was a national event that was attended by engaged districts' staff of JAZBA and CSO members from already engaged targeted districts of Pakistan.

The objective of the TOT was to equip the district staff and CSO members with the proper knowledge of leadership and local government system and clarity to downstream the trainings in their respective districts. The training was started with the welcome note by Team Leader Mr. Irfan Mufti, SAP-PK. He gave a brief introduction of JAZBA project to participants, he answered the questions raised by the participants during his presentation.

Ms. Shamaila Tanvir, Programme Manager said that initially, TOT was planned for four days in order to deliver contents of training in first two days while other two days were the replication of the training contents by the participants. Keeping in view the current situation of COV 19 prevailing in Pakistan make it difficult to complete the four days because most of the participants were from Sindh, Punjab and KP Provinces.

The main themes were covered in the training were; Gender Concepts, Power Walk, Power and its Dynamic, Gender Based Violence, Understanding Leadership, History and Importance of Local Government System in Pakistan, Citizen's participation in Politics, Analysis of Existing Local Governments in Provinces, Pre- and Post-Election Role and Skills for Ideal Representation. Training techniques were participatory, group works with fun, brainstorming with their experience and ideas that enabled participants to innovate ideas and perspectives. The medium of training was Urdu and manual and hands outs distributed among participants were also developed in Urdu for their more clarity on the topics.

The training team was comprised of capacity building experts Ms. Saima Munir, Ms. Shabina Ayaz, Nabeela Shaheen and Ms. Shamaila Tanvir from Aurat Foundation, Mr. Shakeel Abbas from SAP-PK and Mr. Salman Abid, Executive Director IDEAS.

The training was ended with vote of thanks and hope that all human kind will be successfully survived from this COV 19 virus and field activities will be resumed in the mid of April 2020. At the end, certificates were also distributed among the participation as an appreciation token for their active and energetic participation.

The Launching ceremony of the JAZBA held on 13 March 2020 in Lahore and more than 350 representatives from political, social sphere participated along with Govt officials.
The launch was a good starter for new comers and it give a full clarity of audience specially Govt official, legislators, CSOs representatives, PWDs, TG and women in politics.

Session was chaired by Provincial Minister Mr. Ijaz Masih, Minister for Human Rights & Minorities Affairs & co chaired by Sardar Husnain Bahadar Dreshak , Minister for Livestock & Dairy Development and MPAs and CSO representatives to share their views about this joint intervention and current need.

The main objective of launching the program on International Women Day was to grab maximum attention from key stakeholder on addressing the issue of women's political participation in decision-making mainly focusing on election act & LG Act. Women's political participation and empowerment was strongly stressed by all the speaker. The speakers and audience appreciated the efforts of women community leaders. The speakers termed these women leaders as role models to be followed by other people. The project brochure, animated documentary on project niche, and story of change were shared and distributed for more clarity on JAZBA.

The Launch was a good opportunity for the project to raise CSOs concerns about local government system and also demanded elections on priority basis. Concern on reduction of 33% reserve seats was also raised.

Aurat Foundation organized 2- Days Capacity Building Workshops for Shelters Staff on “Understanding Gender Based Violence and Standard Operating Procedures” in their respective districts i.e. Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Sukkur, Abbottabad and Peshawar. The training sessions were organized from 30th January to 18th February 2020. Overall, 199 (141 women and 51 men) officials of shelters staff trained on “Understanding Gender Based Violence and Standard Operating Procedures of Shelters”.

Under this main title of 2-Day Capacity Building of Shelter Staff on “Understanding Gender Based Violence and Standard Operating Procedures of Shelters, following topics were covered:
Overview of Violence Against Women and Girls, Gender-based violence – defining GBV and discussion on after-effects and consequences of GBV, Prevention and response strategies, survivor assistance; guiding principles: Health – Psychosocial – Security – Legal justice,

Orientation on SOPs/ Minimum Care Standards, Principles, Guidelines and Procedures for the Dar-ul-Aman staff; (Admission, Duration of stay, Discharge, Working days and hours, Compliance with internal rules/ SOPs of the Dar-ul-Aman), Guidelines to dealing with the residents based on a human right, survivor-centric and do no harm approach; Residents’ right, Categories of violations and redressal mechanisms, Protection guidelines and Services to the residents (in line with the Essential Services Package): Medical care; Psychological support; Legal aid; Security; Vocational training; & other services or facilities. TORs of Advisory Committees, TORs of Complaints Management Committees

Survivors’ rehabilitation and follow up mechanisms, strengthening of referral and networking mechanisms, Orientation of Pro Women Laws applicable in Punjab, Discussion on strategies for building positive image of shelters. Pre and post-test assessment of participant were also done. Certificates were also awarded to all trainees. Key notables were invited for awarding the certificates in the end of workshop.

Aurat Foundation in collaboration with Legal Aid Society has prepared Pakistan Alternative Civil Society's Alternative Report on CEDAW 2020. The report covers the period from 2013-2017. The report researched and written by Ms. Tahira Abdullah, Ms. Naheed Aziz, Ms. Maliha Zia and Mr. Naeem Ahmed Mirza. Ms. Mumtaz Mughal Director Programmes presented the report to CEDAW committee during the 75th Session of CEDAW on 9th to 13th February 2020 at UN Headquarters, Geneva. On behalf of over 200 NGOs and 4-Nationsl Alliances, she also read the "Oral Statement" about situation of "Women's Political and Public Participation in Pakistan" at CEDAW 75 session, on 10 Feb 2020.

This 2020 Alternative Report (Pakistan) covers women's critical concerns in relation to their rights as enshrined in the Pakistan Constitution. Besides responding to the CEDAW Committee's 2013 and 2019 Concluding Observations (COs), this Report draws attention to key issues emerging since the submission of Pakistan's Fifth Periodic Report (October 2018). That Report cites outdated statistics, e.g., Articles 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 (2012-2017 data). AF also demanded the withdrawal of 'Declaration' upon State accession to the Convention and ratification of CEDAW Optional Protocol.

The Government's responses in the Fifth Report give the impression that it has complied fully with CEDAW Articles in letter and spirit. Ground realities belie these tall claims. We appreciate some progress, e.g. enactment of women-friendly laws at federal and provincial levels, including positive amendments in electoral laws. Much of the credit goes to civil society, human rights activists' advocacy and proactive initiatives, women legislators, Status of Women Commissions (CSWs). Yet, there exist many unresolved issues within the bitter reality that women and girls risk being discriminated against, humiliated, raped, and "dishonour"-killed, on any pretext that offends patriarchal and misogynist mindsets. There are signs of regression instead of progression in several respects. The National Machinery for women's advancement is not fully functional or effective; illegal 'jirgas' and 'panchayats' continue to wreak havoc with women's lives. Enforcement of positive pro women legislation is not pursued seriously.

State Party Report shortcomings also include: failure to respond adequately to the Committee's COs and Recommendations; uneven representation or omission of provincial initiatives; use of outdated, and/or disputed data instead of credible independent national and global data-sets on varied dimensions of gender inequality; and failure to mention linkages to the SDGs. It does not identify, measure, analyse substantive change or improvement resulting from new laws and policies, as per adequacy of implementation, coverage, access to, or effectiveness of services.

This Alternative Report recognizes the resilience, courage and initiatives of women and girls in private and public spheres, legislators, minorities, persons with disability (PWDs) and transgender individuals (TGIs), taking action to reclaim their rights. We hope that federal and provincial governments will acknowledge harsh realities facing half the population and undertake concrete actions in compliance with the State's commitments under CEDAW. (Report is available on AF website: www.af.org.pk/publications)

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation, concerning implementation of Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan on 28th January 2020 at International Islamic University, Islamabad. The MoU was signed by Ms. Ashifa Riaz Fatyana, Minster for Women Development Department, Government of Punjab and Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Director Programmes Aurat Foundation. Special Assistant to Prime Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan, officials of Ministry of Defence, Vice Chancellor of International Islamic University, women leaders, students and civil society activists were present on the occasion.

The objectives of were:

• Collaborate, to develop and implement a road map/strategy for implementation of Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan in Punjab
• Aurat Foundation will provide human resource “as capacity building experts” to conduct the training programme in educational institutions and community.
• Ensure co-operation, consultation and effective coordination with each other for taking joint ventures in respect of raising awareness in the Punjab concerning women’s rights follow by Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan.
• Strengthened the youth capacities in education institutions and communities on women rights.

For the implementation of the programme;

• AF identified 20 trainers from Rawalpindi and Lahore for training of trainers.
• Out of 20, Sixteen (16) trainers were trained through one day orientation session on manual of Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan on 28th January 2020 at conference hall of International Islamic University, Islamabad.
• AF trainers conducted 2-sessions on 13-14 February 2020 at Fatima Jinnah University, Rawalpindi
• A "Videography Competition" was announced by Women Development Department, Punjab in collaboration with Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Foundation, AF and Rafi Peer Theater on 23 April 2020.
• Videography Competition published in 17 national and regional newspapers

 

Aurat Foundation arranged consultation meeting on Sharing Progress for Women Empowerment" at Four Point by Sheraton hotel, Lahore on 13th December, 2019 where representatives of PCSW, WDD, NCHR, Social Welfare Dept. & women protections Authority, Labor department and Women Parliamentarians shared their progress and initiatives for women empowerment under Creating Spaces Project of Aurat Foundation and Oxfam in Pakistan. Justice (R) Nasira javaid and Ms. Ashifa Riaz Fatyana, Minister for Women Development graced the occasion with their valuable participation.

The purpose of the workshop was to discuss about gender parity measures, frameworks, and progress pertaining to legal, economic, and social indicators. Various departments of the respective provinces will be invited to share their progress against performance benchmarks, and these sessions will produce practical recommendations for women and social welfare ministries. Policy makers, legislatures, executives, public office holders, and civil society representatives have the opportunity to review the progress these different departments are making.

The formal meeting started with the welcome note by Mr. Anjum Rafiq, Provincial Coordinator, followed by introduction of the participants. Ms. Isma Sana provided the introduction of the Creating Spaces Project. Ms. Shamaila Tanvir gave the brief details about the workshop.

Representatives of different govt. department shared the progress made for women’s empowerment of their relevant departments.

• Mr. Imran Qureshi, Senior Legal Executive, Punjab Commission on the Status of Women
• Mr. Waqar Ahmad, Deputy Director, Women Development Department, Punjab
• Director, Social Welfare Department, Punjab
• Mr. Muhammad Khalid, Provincial Coordinator, National Commission of Human Rights
• Mr. Muhammad Shahid, Director, Labour Department, Punjab
• Ms. Neelum Hayyat, MPA & General Secretary for Women’s Parliamentary Caucus
• Ms. Uzma Kardar, MPA & Chairperson for Gender Mainstreaming Committee, Provincial Assembly of the Punjab
• Ms. Shamsa Advocate, MPA & Chairperson for Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Provincial Assembly of the Punjab
• Justice (R) Nasira Javaid Iqbal
• Ms. Ashifa Riaz Fatyana, Minster for Women Development, Provincial Assembly of the Punjab
  

Aurat Foundation in collaboration with Oxfam with the financial support of Global Affairs Canada, organized a consultation in Lahore on 19th November 2019 at Four Points by Sheraton in which a large number of women parliamentarians, government officials and civil society networks and alliances participated. In this consultation, all the participants shared and proposed draft amendment(s) Punjab Child Marriage Restraint (Amendment) Act, 2015, including, increasing the age of a girl to 18 instead of 16.

Aurat Foundation organized and sponsored a session "Water Energy Food Nexus; Does the Nexus actually work? Women's Perspective" during the 4th International Water Conference at Marriot Hotel, Karachi organized by Hissar Foundation. The objectives of session were; ascertain if the water-energy-food nexus is something that resonates with women, whether this concept is useful and usable for Women Water Networks. The session was chaired by Dr Abida Farooqi, Assistant Professor Environmental Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University.

Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Director Progarmme presented a summary of women's colloquiums and shared the future of Women and Water Networks and how it embraces NEXUS. Women's rights activists Ms. Farzana Saleem and Ms. Farkhunda Aurangzeb shared that the history of Women and Water Networks. A presentation was given by Ms. Meher Nowshirwani on women and Nexus. The session recognized the pivotal role of gender in the food and energy nexus. Women are needed in policy making at all levels of the water sector as guarantors for water reforms. Women and girls, and the way they are impacted by access to water, food and environmental entitlements constitute a large part of the picture, and most importantly a large part of the solution.

The 4th International Water Conference was inaugurated by President of Republic of Pakistan, Dr Arif Alvi. While addressing 4th Karachi International Water Conference. He highlighted the importance to establish a network of partnerships on water and food security involving private sector, government, civil society, media and people of Pakistan, is the need of the hour. He said that we live in a time, where our children are rightfully holding us accountable for our mistakes in failing to take care of the environment. They expect us to protect natural resources and leave them a legacy on which to build a water and food sufficient society.

Addressing the concluding ceremony of Water Conference, Governor Sindh, Mr. Imran Ismail said that water crisis was one of the major challenges faced by the present government for which Prime Minister Imran Khan decided to implement water supply projects across the country. He stressed upon improved inter-provincial coordination to mitigate prevailing water and food security risks, while stressing for provincial consensus on the implementation of water policy so that the growing needs of the country could be met accordingly.

Ms. Simi Kamal, Founder member of Hissar Foundation shared the objectives of conference. She said that Water Energy Food concept applied to water security (access and supply), food and energy with water holding center stage. The Nexus approach allows exploration through the prism of valuing water, food, social and economic inclusion (gender and youth), water governance, water infrastructure, and investment. Delivering water, energy and food for all in a sustainable and equitable way is one of the major challenges faced by society.

The conference was attended by leaders, actors and players of the water sector that are working on Water-Energy-Food Nexus and related areas. Major global, regional and national organizations and their representatives, researchers, professionals, decision-makers, business innovators, practitioners, experts, women's groups and youth groups.

By the end of the conference we expect to see the emergence of a research agenda on WEF nexus, pledges of government and people working together and working relationships connecting developed and developing countries to address our common heritage.

Aurat Foundation in collaboration with EVAW-G Alliance, organized a press conference at Quetta Press Club on "16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence". Mr. Allauddin Khilji, Mr. Watan Yar Khilji (Chairman EVAW/G Alliance), Ms. Huma Fouladi, Mr. Muhammad Khalil (UN-Women), Ms. Naseema Salam (BRSP), Ms. Shania, Mr. Ishfaq Mengal, Mr. Saeed Akbar (DANESH) briefed the participants about the campaign.

Mr. Allauddin Khilji, Resident Director Aurat Foundation, Balochistan, members of EVAW-G Alliance and other civil society organizations were addressed in press conference. Mr. Allauddin Khilji from Aurat Foundation presented the VAW Report 2019. In this report, 118 incidents of VAW were reported in Balochistan during in 11 months of 2019, while 70 women and 11 men were killed, of which 43 women and 9 men were killed in the name of honour, Domestic violence and household issues forced 17 women to commit suicide, 13 women were faced domestic torture; 28 cases of murder; 4 women were abducted; 3 women were thrown acid and 1 incident of threat against women was reported.

The present report has categorized incidents of violence on depending upon the nature of violence. These have been categorized as murder, domestic violence, hurt and body injury, kidnapping, suicide, beating, burning, rape, Gang rape, 'honor' killing, and any other kind of violence.

Mr. Allauddin Khilji (Resident Director) expressed his concern the several women are sacrificed on honor killing, Karo kari, there is no one to listen these thousands women's crying, who could escape them from the traditional cruel customs in Balochistan as well as Pakistan, women are being treated with violence every day. In the last four years more than thousand women were killed on the name honor. He stressed upon the Government, civil society organizations and tribal notables to rescue the effected women.

Mr. Khilji said that the trend of killing women in the cases of siah kari and leaving the men alive is practiced in the interior of Balochistan for the last few years. This clearly raises suspicions about the role of jirga in the settlement of cases of siah kari. Jirga decisions point to the fact that, the tradition of honor killing has become a trade under the protection of tribal jirgas. In the incidents of siah Kari men are let alive in the incident of siah kari. Later they are presented before the jirga, which charged them a heavy amount of compensation. This decision clearly reflects the commercialization of the norm of honor killing. In this situation responsibility lies with the tribal elders, intellectuals, parliamentarians (especially women parliamentarians), civil society and media to look into the matter before it becomes another societal dilemma against the already suppressed women of Balochistan.

Ms. Huma Fouladi said that every year, 16 days of activism against gender-based violence are celebrated. Started from 25 November and continuing till December 10, the theme of this year 2019 is "Orange the World; Generation Equality stands against the Rape".

The movement all over the world raise their voices against the violence and oppression of women in these 16 days. Mr. Khilji said that Aurat Foundation, EVAW/G and UN-Women have setup various programs / activities for 16 days of activism to combat violence against women. The campaign will begin on November 25 with a ceremony at Balochistan Rural Support Programme (BRSP), ending on December 10, 2019, the International day for Human Rights. He further said that the campaign includes meetings with Parliamentarians, holding awareness sessions, Seminars, walk, panel Discussions at boys and girls schools in different districts of Balochistan.

Aurat Foundation and other Civil Society Organizations demand from Government that;
1. Like other provinces, Provincial Government Balochistan should take affirmative steps for the establishment of Provincial Commission on the Status of Women.
2. Provincial coalition government to put their efforts for passage of "The Child Marriage Prohibition Bill" from Provincial Assembly Balochistan.
3. To ensure the formation of "Inquiry Committees" under Anti-Harassment Act 2016 at all government and non-government institutions and also aware citizens at local level on that.
4. Formation of rules and regulations regarding implementation of Domestic Violence Act.
5. Formation of policies at provincial level for socio-economic protection of Women Home-Based Workers, formulation of development schemes for improvement of economic status of Women Home-Based Workers and establishment of 'Product Finishing Units' for finishing of products made by them.
6. Formation of policy at government level for restoration of peace and harmony among citizens of Balochistan.
7. New committees with the partnership of civil societies, philanthropists, local representatives and scouts should be formed and organized by government beside Provincial and District level Disaster Management Authorities to play effective part in focusing on women and children in time of calamity.
8. Easy friendly access should be provided to disabled women in all government and private departments.
9. Mental Health Care unit should be established in all civil hospitals at provincial and district level.
10. Mobile centers for Fistula treatment should be established at all Basic Health Units across the province.
11. Psychiatrist should be appointed in the institutions of Special Children established under Social Welfare Department.
12. Emergency exits should be established in all hospitals including Bolan Medical Complex.
13. Women Friendly Spaces like day care center, toilets, rest/common rooms and information desks should be established at Chamber of Commerce, Courts, Media Houses and all public and private offices/institutions.
14. HR policies of Media Houses should be revised in accordance with the gender sensitive needs through provision of maternity, annual and casual leave.
Gender Sensitive HR policies should be prepared by Chamber of Commerce, Courts, Media Houses and all public and private offices/institutions.
15. Political parties should give equal tickets to women on contesting through general seats.
16. Legislation and implementation of "Acid Survivor Rehabilitation Bill" for Balochistan.
17. Dar-ul-Aman for women survivors and women police stations should be established at Divisional capitals.
18. Special measures should be adopted in the courts to ensure speedy trial of case related to violation of basic human rights of women.

Aurat Foundation Quetta organized a launching ceremony of Women Water Network and Women's Colloquium with Hisaar Foundation on 6th November, 2019 in Aurat Foundation office, Quetta.

The objective of this activity is to engage organizations and woman individually who are active in the areas of water and sanitation, sustainable development, women's participation and empowerment. The members may be rural women, academia, women water professionals, and businesswomen to service organizations and special interest groups. Women as active leaders, partners, experts and agents of change in water are highly appreciated to join.

The meeting started with the recitation of Holy Quran. Mr. Allauddin Khilji, Resident Director Aurat Foundation Quetta welcomed the participants and introduction of participants. He has given the brief introduction on formation and set up Women Water Network. After this, Dr. Ziviqar Deputy Director, PCRWR has given a brief presentation titled "Role of Pakistani women around water table and why women are important to pursue in water sector".

Mr. Allauddin Khilji, explained the global trends of water and the role of women in this area. He highlighted many names who are contributing their life for this cause. Further, he explained the role of Pakistani women around water table. Discussion was held for the conservation of water and participants shared their achievement and thoughts. Mr. Khilji said that establishing effective strategies to ensure the proper utilization of available water resources, so that timely preparation can be made to tackle the implications of changing climate in Balochistan. He said that the role in the consultation and decision making process of women in shaping water policy in Balochistan is critical. “Water resources are shrinking around the world and the need to ensure careful use of globally available water resources is emphasized. He added that this would be the first women water network of its kind established in Balochistan to raise awareness among the women of Balochistan.

Ms. Fatima Nangyal, Focal person of Human Rights Defender said that women in Balochistan face more difficulties in accessing water compare to other provinces.

Ms. Saima Javaid, Gender Specialist Tameer-e-Khalq Foundation said that the majority of women in Balochistan have the primary responsibility of bringing and using water to their homes, but in rural areas, water is not safe according to hygiene principles.

Mr. Khilji said that over 2 billion people live in countries experiencing high water stress. Worldwide, over 80% of all wastewater returns to the environment without being treated (WWAP, 2017). The increase in demand for irrigation for agriculture has led to severe groundwater stress in some areas, especially in two of Asia’s major food baskets, India and China. Gender inequalities in access to water are large and persistent in many countries. He also highlighted that Water planners choose amongst competing uses. Women don’t have a formal voice in the sector therefore domestic use is given least priority. Often irrigation schemes are conducted with landowners therefore women are left out of the equation

Participants discussed inherent and historical role of women in preservance, usage and distribution of water resources with a view to maintain and strengthen it. They also proposed interventions at research, policy advocacy and grassroots’ mobilisation for ensuring women’s role in water crisis solutions. Many examples are shared that how small behavioral change lead to big evolution. The participants appreciated the work and had given their valuable input in this regard. They devoted that Little Drops of Water Make a Mighty Ocean.

In the end of event, it was decided by the members of the network to hold monthly meeting in connection with network. It was also decided that an executive committee will be comprised of four members in the next meeting of network, while Mr. Allauddin Khilji from AF will provide secretarial support to WWN Balochistan. More than 30 participants attended the event. They were from academia, public offices, civil society, law, media, individual experts, and representatives of women alliances.

Aurat Foundation arranged a "Training Workshop on Effective Local Accountability" at Margalla Hotel, Islamabad on Oct. 24, 2019 under project of Creating Spaces to take actions on violence against women and girls. Women leaders, Women Protec Forum members, lawyers and youth attended the training session.

The objective of this activity is to create awareness in advancing women's rights, women's leadership and the elimination of violence against women and girls by building the capacity of these women by changing their attitudes, norms and behaviors, and to strengthen standards, legislation, and regulations. 

The formal meeting started with the welcome note by Ms. Shamaila Tanvir, Project Manager, followed by introduction of the participants. She has given brief introduction on the elimination of violence against women and girls. She has taken an overview analysis of participants' understanding before training.

Mr. Bilal Naqeeb, Master Trainer, briefly explained the concepts of governance, good governance and community governance. He told the model for good community governance. He further conducted a group activity to describe governance of community through SWOT model. Then further he explained the term accountability and every nuke and corner of it. Social accountability was of major concern. Then for social accountability understanding, he conducted a role play through group engagement.

In the end, he concluded with summarizing whole training by an over view of its training. Then the feedback of understanding to their topic is taken from all the participants. Total 30 participants participated in this training. Training session was ended with note of thanks by Ms. Isma Sana, Project Manager, Creating Space Project, Oxfam.

Aurat Foundation organized a launching ceremony of Women Water Network and Women's Colloquium with Hisaar Foundation on 3rd August, 2019 in Aurat Foundation, Head office, Islamabad.

The objective of this activity is to engage organizations and woman individually who are active in the areas of water and sanitation, sustainable development, women's participation and empowerment. The members may be rural women, academia, women water professionals, and businesswomen to service organizations and special interest groups. Women as active leaders, partners, experts and agents of change in water are highly appreciated to join.

The formal meeting started with the welcome note delivered by Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Director Programme Aurat Foundation and introduction of participants. She has given the brief introduction on formation and set up Women Water Network. After this, Ms Eisha from AF has given a brief presentation titled "Every Drop Count" on importance and consumption of water.

Ms. Simi Kamal, Water Specialist and founder of Hisaar Foundation explained the global trends of water and the role of women in this area. She highlighted many names who are contributing their life for this cause. Further, she explained the role of Pakistani women around water table and why women are important to pursue in water sector. Discussion was held for the conservation of water and participants shared their achievement and thoughts. Ms. Farzana Saleem, Coordinator, National Women Water Network added valuing water and protecting our ecosystem. She explained water governance and its infrastructure.

Over 2 billion people live in countries experiencing high water stress. Worldwide, over 80% of all wastewater returns to the environment without being treated (WWAP, 2017). The increase in demand for irrigation for agriculture has led to severe groundwater stress in some areas, especially in two of Asia's major food baskets, India and China. Gender inequalities in access to water are large and persistent in many countries. She also highlighted that Water planners choose amongst competing uses. Women don't have a formal voice in the sector therefore domestic use is given least priority. Often irrigation schemes are conducted with landowners therefore women are left out of the equation

Participants discussed inherent and historical role of women in preservance, usage and distribution of water resources with a view to maintain and strengthen it. They also proposed interventions at research, policy advocacy and grassroots' mobilisation for ensuring women's role in water crisis solutions. Many examples are shared that how small behavioral change lead to big evolution. The participants appreciated the work and had given their valuable input in this regard. They devoted that Little Drops of Water Make a Mighty Ocean.

In the end of event, an executive committee comprised of four members was formed to access new areas of knowledge and a forum to work with other members. Ms. Samina Shoaib, President Women Water Network (WWN- Islamabad), Ms. Zartasha , General Secretary, Ms. Farhana Satti and Ms. Doultana Kausar. Ms. Farkhanda Aurugzaib and Farzana Saleem will provide technical support while Ms. Mumtaz from AF will provide secretarial support to WWN Islamabad. More than 44 participants attended the event. They were from academia, public offices, civil society, law, media, individual experts, and representatives of women alliances.

The Institute of Administrative Sciences Punjab University has arranged a seminar with the collaboration of Aurat Foundation Lahore. The objective of this session was to create awareness among youth on anti-dowry campaign. This issue exists countrywide, but the ones effected more the upper-middle and lower- middle socio-economic classes. In the context of Pakistan, the dowry was not a tradition but has recently, become an issue in our community which leads to domestic violence in various forms The panelist was Dr. khalida Amjad, senior visiting faculty Doctorate in Arabic, Mr. Adeel Asghar Hashmi family lawyer from High court Lahore, Mr. Tanvir Sadiq, Ms. Sarah Sheraz, Provincial Manager (AF-Lhr) & Ms. Samina Javed, Program officer (AF-Lhr). Ms. Sarah Sheraz represent the AF, and shared the history, vision, mission and contribution of Aurat Foundation to empower the women and marginalized community. She added that AF is against this so-called tradition, which is becoming the monster day by day and collaborative efforts are much needed to get rid from this, otherwise it will ruin the coming generation. This disease is not only spoiling the lives of women as far as men also. Mr. Adeel Asghar (Advocate) discussed with the reference of constitution and law. He shared his perspective in the context of Anti Dowry legislation.  The other panelists also shared their views in this regard, and show their commitment to end this economical violence.

At the end of the seminar, Attendees ensured to raise their voice against this social diseases by signing the pledge.

 

 

Aurat Foundation arranged a stall of AF publications at 8th March IWD gala by gender studies department of University of Punjab. Stall also visited by Vice Chancellor of Punjab University Lahore

International Women’s day is celebrated on 8th march. In the context of IWD the Aurat Foundation and the group of interns from Gender Studies Department, PU has planned activity. The theme of the activity was to “Create & Spread “awareness among the community at public place. They chose the social issues of our society, like Early & Forced marriage, a campaign against Dowry, Violence against women and right to inheritance. The students have made the paly cards with different slogans and strong messages to illuminate those issues. The process of the activity was to engage the passengers and the management. We focused women, and also talked to men because we could not bring the change in society until we change mindset of men in our society.  We met with people from Islamabad, Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, Sahiwal and Multan. The women were keen to know about their rights and condemn the violation of their fundamental rights. To get our rights we should focus on girl’s education, through education we can break the stereotypes and patriarchy from our society. The objective of this activity was to aware the diverse group and make a chain of change. The students took the commitment from them, they will aware the five more women.                      

 

 

Dowry is an overburdening curse that has engulfed our society. The unpleasant custom has taken the form of blackmail, reluctantly accepted and fulfilled by the bride’s family to marry off their girl child. Parents gather a sizeable amount of property, money and material belongings in their quest to fulfill their religious duty. It’s about time that this age-old tradition that has gained patronage in our society be rooted out.

 

15 A group of officers from the 46TH Common group of Civil Services Academy, Walton Lahore has visited the Aurat Foundation office on 3rd January 2019 for insight and analysis of field & community work. They selected the Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation for the to get familiar and to compare Public and private sector working structures.

15 A group of officers from the 46TH Common group of Civil Services Academy, Walton Lahore has visited the Aurat Foundation office on 3rd January 2019 for insight and analysis of field & community work. They selected the Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation for the to get familiar and to compare Public and private sector working structures.

15 A group of officers from the 46TH Common group of Civil Services Academy, Walton Lahore has visited the Aurat Foundation office on 3rd January 2019 for insight and analysis of field & community work. They selected the Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation for the to get familiar and to compare Public and private sector working structures.

15 A group of officers from the 46TH Common group of Civil Services Academy, Walton Lahore has visited the Aurat Foundation office on 3rd January 2019 for insight and analysis of field & community work. They selected the Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation for the to get familiar and to compare Public and private sector working structures.

15 A group of officers from the 46TH Common group of Civil Services Academy, Walton Lahore has visited the Aurat Foundation office on 3rd January 2019 for insight and analysis of field & community work. They selected the Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation for the to get familiar and to compare Public and private sector working structures.

15 A group of officers from the 46TH Common group of Civil Services Academy, Walton Lahore has visited the Aurat Foundation office on 3rd January 2019 for insight and analysis of field & community work. They selected the Women Development Department, Punjab and Aurat Foundation for the to get familiar and to compare Public and private sector working structures.

Round table discussion with parliamentarians Punjab held on 6th Dec 2018. Member provincial assembly Punjab, Mumkin alliance members participated. Provincial head of National Commission on Human Rights Mrs Kishwer  Shaheen , Awan Additional IG Mr Abu Baker Khuda Bukhsh, AIG gender crimes Mr Muhammad Shahid was participated and speak about the situation of violence against women and girls in Punjab province.   Member alliance shared the alarming situation of VAW cases, and the constraint of budgetary issues of Violence against Women Center Punjab, they also demanded the formulation of rules of business of VAWC. The representative of UN women focused on survivor’s condition. Member provincial assembly promised for put the resolution in assembly for the smooth working of VAWC district Multan.

Women Safety Audit steering committee meeting was chaired by Ms. Irum Bukhari Sahiba, Secretary Women Development, Government of Punjab. Meeting was started with the formal welcome note and round of introduction of participants. She shared the background of establishment of department. She also shared the role and responsibilities, efforts toward gender equalities, achievement of department. Sharing the survey findings of working women issues which was conducted by WDD, transport, housing and day care were on top priority issues. She also shared that PM, CM and Minister for Women Development are very much keen to promote gender equality. In this regard, a committee has been notified for pursuance of 100 days agenda of women empowerment. She also appreciated civil society and role of international organizations for achieving the goal of gender equality in Pakistan. She welcomed the initiative and gave her commitment to lead the study.  

Aurat Foundation organized a dialogue with Members Provincial Assembly today in Hotel Avari. Panel included Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Women Rights Activist, Mr. Mohammad Shahid, Assistant Director Labour and Mr. Zaigham, Director Labour, Labour and Human Resource Department Punjab, Mr. Safdar Abbas, Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department, Additional Secretary Agriculture Department and representatives of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Women Development Department. More than 25 MPAs participated in dialogue. The aim to hold the dialogue was to share the gaps identified in its “Participatory Policy Assessment” in the context of GSP+ and SDGs. 

Aurat Foundation organized a dialogue with Members Provincial Assembly today in Hotel Avari. Panel included Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Women Rights Activist, Mr. Mohammad Shahid, Assistant Director Labour and Mr. Zaigham, Director Labour, Labour and Human Resource Department Punjab, Mr. Safdar Abbas, Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department, Additional Secretary Agriculture Department and representatives of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Women Development Department. More than 25 MPAs participated in dialogue. The aim to hold the dialogue was to share the gaps identified in its “Participatory Policy Assessment” in the context of GSP+ and SDGs. 

Aurat Foundation organized a dialogue with Members Provincial Assembly today in Hotel Avari. Panel included Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Women Rights Activist, Mr. Mohammad Shahid, Assistant Director Labour and Mr. Zaigham, Director Labour, Labour and Human Resource Department Punjab, Mr. Safdar Abbas, Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department, Additional Secretary Agriculture Department and representatives of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Women Development Department. More than 25 MPAs participated in dialogue. The aim to hold the dialogue was to share the gaps identified in its “Participatory Policy Assessment” in the context of GSP+ and SDGs. 

Aurat Foundation organized a dialogue with Members Provincial Assembly today in Hotel Avari. Panel included Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Women Rights Activist, Mr. Mohammad Shahid, Assistant Director Labour and Mr. Zaigham, Director Labour, Labour and Human Resource Department Punjab, Mr. Safdar Abbas, Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department, Additional Secretary Agriculture Department and representatives of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Women Development Department. More than 25 MPAs participated in dialogue. The aim to hold the dialogue was to share the gaps identified in its “Participatory Policy Assessment” in the context of GSP+ and SDGs. 

Aurat Foundation organized a dialogue with Members Provincial Assembly today in Hotel Avari. Panel included Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Women Rights Activist, Mr. Mohammad Shahid, Assistant Director Labour and Mr. Zaigham, Director Labour, Labour and Human Resource Department Punjab, Mr. Safdar Abbas, Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department, Additional Secretary Agriculture Department and representatives of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Women Development Department. More than 25 MPAs participated in dialogue. The aim to hold the dialogue was to share the gaps identified in its “Participatory Policy Assessment” in the context of GSP+ and SDGs. 

Aurat Foundation organized a dialogue with Members Provincial Assembly today in Hotel Avari. Panel included Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Women Rights Activist, Mr. Mohammad Shahid, Assistant Director Labour and Mr. Zaigham, Director Labour, Labour and Human Resource Department Punjab, Mr. Safdar Abbas, Assistant Director, Social Welfare Department, Additional Secretary Agriculture Department and representatives of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Women Development Department. More than 25 MPAs participated in dialogue. The aim to hold the dialogue was to share the gaps identified in its “Participatory Policy Assessment” in the context of GSP+ and SDGs. 

Launching ceremony of participatory policy assessment on Socio-Economic rights of women working in agriculture sector was held on  30th Oct 2018 which was graced by Honorable Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia (2009-17), Mr. Naeem A Mirza, Executive Director AF, Mr. Rafael ,Program Officer  Club de Madrid,Mr  Muhammad Sohail ,Additional Secretary Labour ,Mr Hasnat ,Team Lead, Ms Mumtaz Mughal , Resident Director AF Lahore spoke on the occasion.

 

Launching ceremony of participatory policy assessment on Socio-Economic rights of women working in agriculture sector was held on  30th Oct 2018 which was graced by Honorable Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia (2009-17), Mr. Naeem A Mirza, Executive Director AF, Mr. Rafael ,Program Officer  Club de Madrid,Mr  Muhammad Sohail ,Additional Secretary Labour ,Mr Hasnat ,Team Lead, Ms Mumtaz Mughal , Resident Director AF Lahore spoke on the occasion.

 

Launching ceremony of participatory policy assessment on Socio-Economic rights of women working in agriculture sector was held on  30th Oct 2018 which was graced by Honorable Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia (2009-17), Mr. Naeem A Mirza, Executive Director AF, Mr. Rafael ,Program Officer  Club de Madrid,Mr  Muhammad Sohail ,Additional Secretary Labour ,Mr Hasnat ,Team Lead, Ms Mumtaz Mughal , Resident Director AF Lahore spoke on the occasion.

 

Launching ceremony of participatory policy assessment on Socio-Economic rights of women working in agriculture sector was held on  30th Oct 2018 which was graced by Honorable Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia (2009-17), Mr. Naeem A Mirza, Executive Director AF, Mr. Rafael ,Program Officer  Club de Madrid,Mr  Muhammad Sohail ,Additional Secretary Labour ,Mr Hasnat ,Team Lead, Ms Mumtaz Mughal , Resident Director AF Lahore spoke on the occasion.

 

Launching ceremony of participatory policy assessment on Socio-Economic rights of women working in agriculture sector was held on  30th Oct 2018 which was graced by Honorable Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia (2009-17), Mr. Naeem A Mirza, Executive Director AF, Mr. Rafael ,Program Officer  Club de Madrid,Mr  Muhammad Sohail ,Additional Secretary Labour ,Mr Hasnat ,Team Lead, Ms Mumtaz Mughal , Resident Director AF Lahore spoke on the occasion.

 

Launching ceremony of participatory policy assessment on Socio-Economic rights of women working in agriculture sector was held on  30th Oct 2018 which was graced by Honorable Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia (2009-17), Mr. Naeem A Mirza, Executive Director AF, Mr. Rafael ,Program Officer  Club de Madrid,Mr  Muhammad Sohail ,Additional Secretary Labour ,Mr Hasnat ,Team Lead, Ms Mumtaz Mughal , Resident Director AF Lahore spoke on the occasion.

 

Mumkin Alliance is an alliance of 18 NGOs, since 2008 Work for elimination of violence against women. A strategic planning meeting was held to analyses the situation of violence against women and girls in province of Punjab. In order to make EVAW/G alliance an active and effective body and to give it a strategic direction towards achievement of its goal, UN Women facilitated EVAW/G alliances in all four provinces in formulating their own provincial strategy with action plan for next 5 years. The strategy in Punjab is developed through a consultative process involving bilateral and multilateral consultation with members of the alliance. The Mumkin alliance strategy (2019-2023) held with the members in October 2018. The performance review and recommendations from these consultations and review helped in the identification of strategic focus areas and action plan for the next 5 years. 

Two members of European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) had a meeting with AF Karachi team on 24th of July 2018.The EU has an established methodology for observing elections. AF team shared with them that Aurat Foundation has been engaged with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and political parties since the early 90’s and thus AF’s experience spans on two and a half decades. Most of our work was carried out in collaboration with citizens’ networks and groups and local community-based organisation. Main focus of our work was to support political parties for putting women’s rights agenda on their manifestos, facilitate and support the ECP and local government election authorities in the conduct of elections.AF team apprised them about the obstacles being faced by women and the measures being taken for women’s empowerment.

Sindh Commission for Status of Women in collaboration with Aurat Foundation conducted one day election observer training at Aurat Foundation Karachi Office on 23-07-2018, Master trainer Ms. Sadia Shakeel and Ms. Seema Sheikh from Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) delivered the session according to section 232 of observer in election 2017 Act. The Chairperson SCSW Ms. Nuzhat Shireen along with Civil society representatives participated the workshop.

There’s been an inexcusable lot of silence in make culture about this ongoing tragedy of men’s VAW/G… we need to break that silence. Now, it is time to go beyond denial and observe speedy, sincere and simple solutions because irrespective of the complexity of the VAW, it is preventable. Mumkin Alliance
Lahore 7 March, 2018 (PR) Members of Mumkin Alliance for EVAW demand to improve violence against women and girl’s protection, response and prevention system. VAW/G continues to be a severely underreported crime in Pakistan and globally. Incompetent investigators and inadequate resources are indicate to as the most serious problems facing criminal investigative services in Pakistan. Prevention and response to GBV requires prevention, response (survivor assistance), and coordination. There is need to develop prevention and response strategies. The Punjab Government has made some visible progress in other legal reforms for the protection of women but detailed policy framework for promised legislation for protection of women survivors of violence has not yet been developed. The views were shared in Strategic dialogue with stakeholders for strengthen networking with Mumkin Alliance to improve the situation of VAW/G and GBV support services in Punjab.
Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director Aurat Foundation said that according to AF VAW reports, more than 10,000 reported every year. According to Punjab Police investigation branch report, 181 women are murder on the name honor killing. VAW/G is still treated as a lesser crime. There’s been an inexcusable lot of silence in make culture about this ongoing tragedy of men’s violence against women and children… we need to break that silence. Now, it is time to go beyond denial and observe speedy, sincere and simple solutions because irrespective of the complexity of the VAW, it is preventable.
Salman Abid Executive Director IDEAS said that VAW/G can prevent through developing a fair and equitable reforming laws, policy and procedures based on international human rights standards. There is need to strengthen links and cooperation between and among state and non-state institutions to ensure survivor’s safety and offender accountability.
Nabeela Shaheen, Advocate said that Criminal justice system could not be seen in isolation as police were a vital part of this system and gaps needed to be filled. Sensitization to deal with human or minority rights issues was completely missing in police. Irfan Mufti, Deputy Director SAP-PK said that civil society can help government to improve the value and relevance of community-level security initiatives. Mumkin Alliance for EVAW need to be represented and contribute to policy discussions in order to play an effective role in monitoring the sector’s accountability.
Ume Laila, Executive Director Home Net Pakistan said that Victims of violence not only suffer brutal denials of their personal rights but insult is routinely added to their injury by a callous society. The violence that women and girls suffer from is thus not only physical, but also societal. The cost of psychological is very high. Governments should take up GBV on their priority agenda.
Bushra Khaliq Executive Director WISE said that violence against women is embedded in our cultural practices. Strengthening oversight and monitoring of the justice sector can improve GBV services provided by government. Strong coordination is needed among women rights organizations with GBV service providers.
Muhammad Salman, Director Planning Social welfare shared that Social Welfare is going to revamp the Darul-Amans in Punjab by providing timely, equitable access to justice and effective enforcement of Violence against women protection Act 2016. Shazia Sarwar, Assistant to I.G. Punjab for Gender Crime said that Punjab police is taking initatives to improve the police culture. Front desk and women help desk has been set up in police stations. Gender sensitization trainings has been started to build the capacity of police in gender perspective.
Kishwar Shaheen Awan, Provincial Commissioner, National Commission on Human Rights said registration has been started to equip defenders with the knowledge and skills to make strategic use of the international human rights system. Commission has started to review the laws in lines of human rights. 181 complaint has been addressed. SHe stressed that Education is key in ending abuse. NCHR has been started work on revision of curriculum with human and women rights lens. Lubna Mansor, Director Human Rights said that Women in Distress and Detention fund has been reviewed. The objects of this Fund are to provide financial and legal assistance to the women languishing in jails on account of different allegations and those who face extreme hardships. Now, Survivors of VAW can get financial help through it.
Alia Khan, Manager PCSW shared that The Punjab Women’s Toll-Free Helpline 1043 is available 24/7 to register the complaint about Workplace harassment, Gender discrimination, Property disputes and inheritance rights, Domestic violence, and other. She said that by Introducing legislative and enforcement mechanisms to promote and protect human rights and to overcome barriers confronting marginalized and vulnerable groups.

Aurat Foundation organized a “One Day Training of Social Mobilizers” on exercising her right to vote: civic and political pathways to women’s political participation in Pakistan. 32 Social Mobiliser’s participated in training session (16 Social Mobilizer from AF & 16 from SAP-Pk).  Training was divided into five sessions. First session was comprised of welcome note, introduction of participants and objectives and background of the training. In second session, a quiz was planned to assess the social mobilisers knowledge about on election day activities i.e. voter education campagin done by ECP, 8300 process, poling scheme and turn out of female voters in last elections etc. In third session, a plannery session was conducted on “Why women do not vote as much as men do in Pakistan” and “Importance of Women’s vote” to increase the information and knowledge level of participations. In fourth session, Exercise, Group work and Presentations were done on how we motivate the female voters for voting? (Group exercise and mobilization tips), Process of intervention (step wise explanation of various stages of the intervention): Step 1: Door pitch (introduction of CSO and their visit of coming- elections, ECP measures, why women should vote), Step 2: Review and explain Checklist (recording sheet for men/women present in the HH), Step 3: Ice-breaking session (engage in a conversation about the following: when is election day, voting being everyone’s right accountability, why people don’t vote especially women, gender gap in voter turnout), Step 4: Agenda setting  Women: video, info brochures, mock ballot, pledge to vote. Men: video, motivational script, info brochures, pledge to facilitate women in your HH to vote. (Demo of what the motivational script will look like for men in this step which will then be followed by step 5-7). Step 5: Video (show video: “ek vote”) followed by discussion on the video. Step 6: Discuss Information Brochure 1 Step 7: Discuss Information Brochure 2. Activities during demo of Information Brochure 2 (step 7): CNIC reminder, Demo of 8300, Mock voting exercise (women only) and Verbal Pledge to vote (men and women). In fifth session, finalized the work plan of mobilizers visit, distribution of union councils and material. The training was conducted by Anjum Rafiq, Samina Javeed, Nabeela Shaheen and Sara Anam. 

 

Pakistan being among 20 global partners with Women Learning Partnership, USA held its 6th National Training of Trainers in Murree. Aurat Foundation leading Pakistan’s chapter of the partnership facilitated the NTOT from May 26-31, 2018 at Shangrila Resorts in Murree. 

Aurat Foundation has initiated a project titled "Empowerment of Women Home-based workers and excluded groups in Pakistan" in partnership with Home Net Pakistan with the support of UN Women implemented in Karachi and Thatta. Under this project District Action Committees (DAC’s) are formed in these districts. DAC basically is a group of members of different stakeholders at district level, they include home-based workers (HBW’s), organizations working on HBWs, government departments, (Labour Dept, Social Welfare, Women Development, Local Govt, Human Rights) trade unions officials, lawyers, political leaders, NGO’s representatives, disable women, transgenders, and media.

Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability (TDEA) under its Community Leadership Development Program trained approximately 400 Local Body Representatives (LBR) in districts of KP and Sindh. The trained LBR including men and women elected on General seats and seats reserved for Women, labour, peasant and minority councilors. The shortlisted Councilors (50 from each project district) were engaged in various activities like quarterly and monthly meetings, engagements with elected representatives and public officials and interactions with organizations working on GBV issues. 

Women worker’s contribution in agriculture is still unrecognized and overlooked. Agriculture must declare as an “industry” and protect agrarian workers’ rights in labour laws. It is immense need to develop a road map for the promotion and protection of agrarian women workers’ rights in provincial legislative and policy framework of labour.

Chairperson, Women Rights Commission Mahnaz Rafi said that sex and gender-desegregated data is lacking, in general, and thus impacts negatively on women’s status. Ensure free and mandatory registration of all labour (women and men) in all the non-formal sectors of the economy, including, most importantly, the agricultural, HBWs and domestic labour force, which alone contributes over 25% of the GDP.

Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director Auart Foundation urges to develop new definitions and standards of economic indicators in order to accord greater visibility of “invisible work force” and to complete the gaps and weaknesses in statistical records. Currently left out majority of women who work as unpaid agricultural labour (family helpers), domestic workers and home-based workers (HBWs) in the non-formal and non- unionized labour sector contribution in agriculture is unrecognized, unpaid, underrated, and overlooked. Acknowledging the Punjab government efforts towards women’s empowerment and gender equality, agriculture must declare as an “industry” and protect agrarian workers’ rights in labour laws. It is immense need to develop a road map for the promotion and protection of agrarian women workers’ right as labour rights in provincial legislative and policy framework of labour.

Ms. Shameela Aslam, MPA PML-N and business women said that there is need to create an environment that encourages rural women’s increased participation in decision-making, on leadership, public-speaking, trade union, cooperatives and associations. Trade union leaders must create a trust worthy environment for agrarian women workers by providing them leadership opportunities and positions. Women representation must be mandatory in all price control, anjuman tajrans and other forums and committees.

Ms. Faiza Malik, MPA PPPP said that we are in era of technological revolution and agrarian women have often been excluded from agrarian reform and training programmes in new agricultural methods. It is essential to modernize and reconsider trade policies from a more feminist outlook.

Sadia Sohail, MPA PTI said that expedite legislation for the mandatory registration and identification of all women agricultural workers as a basic right. Provincial governments must introduce the social welfare state model to better safeguard and improve workers’ rights and protection. There is need to make an effective monitoring and accountability mechanism on the implantation of labour laws.

Ms. Qasira Ismail, Member PCSW shared that rural women’s access to credit is limited, complex procedures for securing credit; bias in lending institutions and fiscal regulations, lack of knowledge regarding credit programmes and opportunities including women’ s mobility also restrict women’s access to credit institutions.

Ms. Sara Sheraz, Manager Inspired+ Pakistan Programme highlighted the discriminatory barriers and sociocultural rigidities which remains the significant reasons hindering women from gaining effective control of property, assets and resources and restricting their mobility within workplace or employment and self-employment structures. She emphasized on establishment of effective engender grievance reporting and redressal mechanisms to address gender discrimination and harassment at workplace and public place.

Nabeela Shaheen Advocate said that working women’s representation in the local power structures, such as at the ward, union council, town, district or provincial and national level, is limited. There is need to reserve peasant/workers seats in local bodies system at all level. She also said that government should take up legislative initiatives that promote equality in the wage system, more flexible working arrangements, increase the status of women in agriculture, home enterprises, and female-dominated professions in the informal sector.

Participants also demanded that the right of women agricultural workers to be registered as independent Women Heads of Households (WHHs) where indicated, especially women who are single, divorced, separated or widowed; institute special measures and affirmative action for them. Ensure legislation to safeguard the right of all agricultural workers, women and men, to a fair, just, decent, minimum wage. Encourage women farmers to form trade unions, associations and cooperatives. Government should establish pension and social security schemes for rural women their contributions from both “productive” and “reproductive” work. They also stressed upon strengthen and strictly adhere to the law banning Bonded Labour in urban, e.g. street beggars, brick kiln workers; in rural, e.g. agricultural workers/peasants/haaris/mazaaras, etc; and common everywhere: generational forced domestic labour.

Aurat Foundation has organized focus group discussion on 23rd February 2018 by INSPIRED+Team Aurat Foundation Lahore. Participants were from Civil society, MPAs, Members from various service proving institutes /Banks and individual experts to discuss and define participatory policy analysis (PPA) – policy research in the area of socio-economic rights of women.

Aurat Foundation has organized focus group discussion on 23rd February 2018 by INSPIRED+Team Aurat Foundation Lahore. Participants were from Civil society, MPAs, Members from various service proving institutes /Banks and individual experts to discuss and define participatory policy analysis (PPA) – policy research in the area of socio-economic rights of women.

Aurat Foundation has organized focus group discussion on 23rd February 2018 by INSPIRED+Team Aurat Foundation Lahore. Participants were from Civil society, MPAs, Members from various service proving institutes /Banks and individual experts to discuss and define participatory policy analysis (PPA) – policy research in the area of socio-economic rights of women.

Aurat Foundation has organized focus group discussion on 23rd February 2018 by INSPIRED+Team Aurat Foundation Lahore. Participants were from Civil society, MPAs, Members from various service proving institutes /Banks and individual experts to discuss and define participatory policy analysis (PPA) – policy research in the area of socio-economic rights of women.

Aurat Foundation has organized focus group discussion on 23rd February 2018 by INSPIRED+Team Aurat Foundation Lahore. Participants were from Civil society, MPAs, Members from various service proving institutes /Banks and individual experts to discuss and define participatory policy analysis (PPA) – policy research in the area of socio-economic rights of women.

Aurat Foundation has organized focus group discussion on 23rd February 2018 by INSPIRED+Team Aurat Foundation Lahore. Participants were from Civil society, MPAs, Members from various service proving institutes /Banks and individual experts to discuss and define participatory policy analysis (PPA) – policy research in the area of socio-economic rights of women.

Discriminatory social mindset is the biggest hurdle in the way of women political participation which restricts their growth as true political leaders. The views were expressed at the fifth four-day leadership Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop organized by Aurat Foundation under Women Leaning Partnership (WLP). Women community leaders from different parts of the country participated in the training that was meant to build the capacity of women leaders so that they can utilize their capabilities in building a truly democratic society.

The ToT was organized at a time when country prepares for the general elections 2018 and women make an integral part of this changing political situation and emerging political institutions. Keeping this situation in mind, the training was themed around characteristics of true democracy, functioning of democratic institutions, importance of tolerance and dialogue in a democratic system and role of true leader in the promotion and protection of democratic norms. The interactive training workshop had session based on the training manuals developed by WLP including Beyond Equality, Leading to Choices, Claiming our Rights and Leading to a Culture of Democracy. The objective of the training was to build the knowledge and training capacity of facilitators who will take this training further into the community.

The participants used creative ways to bring the concepts of leadership, equality, democracy and human rights under discussion. In one of the sessions, participants analyzed educational institutions and local bodies for being democratic or undemocratic in their functioning and reached to a conclusion that institutions in Pakistan are largely undemocratic in their functioning. They said that democratic institutions are with equal opportunities, merit, justice, freedom of expression, accountability, transparency and rule of law. “All these qualities are found missing in the institutions of Pakistan,” said Kanwal Shauzab from PTI. Sadia Kamal from media said that women are still unacceptable in leadership role in the society. “This resistance increases at higher level especially in the case of political parties. We can hardly find any women without family background of politics at higher level in the political parties,” she said. The participants were of the opinion that those who can think beyond themselves and can bring positive change in the lives of others are leaders. The WLP’s, an international network of learning partnership,  vision is to achieve democratic and peaceful societies that embrace pluralism and tolerance and are governed by gender-equitable norms, legislation, and policies that translate into equal rights and equal levels of participation and decision-making for women and men in the family, community, and politics.

Aurat Foundation (AF) and Oxfam in Pakistan organized a national workshop entitled Woman’s Political Emancipation: The Future of Pakistan in collaboration with Australian High Commission.   Participants include; senior policy makers, parliamentarians, judiciary, and provincial ministers and grassroots level women leaders from across Pakistan. Participants deliberated over ways to improve women’s participation as candidates and voters in the 2018 elections and put forth a set of action-oriented recommendations.

Glowing tributes were paid to late Nigar Ahmad, the founder of Aurat Foundation and one of the pioneers of Women’s Action Forum with passionate vows to continue her mission of establishing a peaceful, tolerant, just and caring society at a remembrance ceremony on Thursday. Nigar Ahmad passed away on 24 February, 2017 in Lahore.

Organised by the Aurat Foundation, the ceremony was attended by people from all walks of life, including foreign dignitaries, political leaders, academicians and members of various minority communities from all over the country.

The event started with the screening of a short video about Nigar’s life and her journey towards becoming one of the leading voices for the emancipation of women and the pioneering founder of the women’s movement in Pakistan. The screening was followed by the small speeches from those who worked closely with Nigar.

A number of speakers, some in tears, spoke about Nigar’s revolutionary ideas and described her as the visionary feminist leader of women’s rights movement in Pakistan and South Asia. She was remembered as the torchbearer of change and development for poor and vulnerable sections of the society.

For her co-workers, family and close friends, Nigar’s extraordinarily kind, humble and caring approach was the best part of her personality where as her students and co-workers praised her intellect, selflessness and pain for the vulnerable.

I.A Rehman, legendary human rights activist, spoke about Nigar’s real understanding that change is only possible through the emancipation of women. “Nigar strongly believed in this and this was visible through her life long struggle through Aurat Foundation,” he said.

Tahira Abdullah, well-known rights activist, said Nigar was Pakistan’s quintessential renaissance woman. She spoke about Nigar’s commitment to rural, poor women, particularly labourers. She ended her tribute with a poem by Faiz Ahmed Faiz, often recited by Nigar. Ubaidullah Chaudary, a close friend and previous colleague of Nigar’s at AF, described Nigar as a complete human being.

Istaqbal Mehdi, a friend from Nigar’s government college days, spoke about Nigar’s student days and her love for life, heated discourse, defiant nature, cricket and her insatiable desire to change the world. Dr. Alia Khan, professor Qauid-e-Azam, a student of Nigar’s spoke about her time with Nigar as a teacher and mentor and how she encouraged her to become an academic activist.

Anis Haroon, ex-chairperson NCSW, spoke about Nigar’s warm and ever giving personality that she applied to her work till the end of her life. She spoke about how Nigar’s vision is seen today in AF and the best way to pay tribute to her life would be keep struggling for the things we believe in.

Kishwar Naheed, well known poet, paid tribute to her dear friend with an ode that spoke of Nigar’s belief, commitment and struggle for the people of Pakistan and their emancipation. Alia Mirza, feminist poet and dear friend of Nigar’s spoke about the love and encouragement Nigar showed to her friends and ensured that others always realised their full potential. Naheed Aziz, activist and well-known professional, said that along with Nigar’s passion for women’s rights, she was also passionate about children’s rights and mobilised a huge protest in Lahore in the 1980s, when AF was newly formed, to raise awareness around the rights of children.

Shohiab Sultan, AF board member and initiators of the Agha Khan Rural Support Programme spoke emotionally of Nigar’s life and commitment towards which she worked to the end of her life. Masooma Hassan, President of the Board of Governors, AF, begun by saying that Nigar’s life should be celebrated. She also highlighted how the working culture of AF has always carried Nigar’s belief in a caring work environment.

Earlier, Naeem Mirza, AF’s Chief Operating Officer, begun the session by welcoming all the people that gathered to pay tribute to Nigar. He started by giving a brief background as to how Nigar Ahmad and Shela Zia founded Aurat Foundation.

Younus Khalid, Chief Policy and Strategy Officer, AF, spoke of his first interaction with Nigar, her inspiring leadership skills and her commitment and devotion to all staff members. Mehnaz Rehman, Shabina Khan, Mumtaz Mughal, directors AF, moderated the session, each giving their personal account of their interaction with Nigar as a friend and colleague. Saima Munir, of AF, spoke of Nigar as a diligent and tough but also caring boss and friend.

Nigar’s son Bilal Siddiqui said that if one wanted to really understand his mother, it was to emphasis the one quality which she believed and carried with her in her personal and professional life that being a caring person and working towards a caring society is the only way to change the world.

Kate, her daughter in law, took to the stage and spoke passionately about Nigar’s personal attributes of generosity and affectionate nature. Kate said Nigar never treated her like a daughter in law and always encouraged her career. She said the country and the world would be a better place if Nigar’s message, in terms of public policy and her personality and interaction with people, was promoted and followed by more people.

Nigar’s drivers, personal assistants, and those personalities from all over the country that she interacted with, both professionally and personally, recalled fondly memories they had of Nigar, her work and her positive impact on their personal life. The evening was sombre, filled with memories to cherish a pioneering personality but it was also reflective and inspiring.

Aurat Foundation welcomed renowned Napalese feminist and AF’s dear friend, Ms. Chandani Joshi to the AF’s Lahore offices.

Ms. Joshi recollected her memories of working with Ms. Nigar Ahmad and Aurat Foundation in the early 90s.

She recalled Nigar’s passion to help peasant women acquire knowledge of their rights  and take charge of the their financial and economic conditions. Ms. Joshi recalled Nigar’s passion being turned into real action with the First National Haryali Peasant Women Conference in November 3-4, 1991 and Second National Haryali Peasant Women Conference in February 17-20, 1993, the first of their kind in Pakistan. The conference allowed a chance and space for these women to discuss their discussed their social, political, economic and environment issues and suggested solutions at the community and government level.  Chandani Joshi also recalled the memories of   the Peasant Women National Summit on Environment and Development 1991, Katmandu, Nepal and the Regional Conference on Women and Environment in February 10-12, 1992.

She talked fondly of Shehla Zia and paid tribute to the commitment of both founding members, Nigar and Shehla for their devotion and struggle towards women’s rights. She also recollected fond personal memories of their personal friendship over these years. Commenting on the status of women in Pakistan today, Ms. Joshi she said that she believed that the country was heading in the right direction with legislation coming into effect and the overall silence over these issues gradually ending.

Ms. Chandani Joshi played a great role for the women of Pakistan as well.  Women in Pakistan. She setup the first South Asian Regional United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) in Pakistan and India.

Besides a large number of Aurat Foundation’s Women Leaders present at the event, Nigar Ahmad, herself was present at the occasion. Others included members of the provincial assembly, members of civil society organisations and individual activists and members of the media. 

Convener Women Parliamentary Caucus of Punjab Assembly, Ms. Kawal Nauaman said that to ensure gender equality, protection of fundamental rights for women and the eliminatation social injustice on sustainable grounds, it would be mandatory to enhance women’s meaningful participation in the democratic process and decision-making. She said this while addressing an experience sharing workshop at a local hotel, Lahore, organized by Westminster Foundation for Democracy UK and Aurat Foundation.

Chairperson Standing Committee on Gender Mainstreaming, Ms. Raheela Khadim Hussain appreciated civil society’s efforts to build the capacity of women parliamentary caucuses to raise women’s concerns and mainstream gender in the Assembly business. She stressed that women caucuses should play their role to oversee the implementation of laws and should also highlight the gender gaps related to violence and socio-economic empowerment of citizens.

Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Member National Assembly, said that creation of women and youth caucuses at the federal level has helped in developing pro-women legislative frameworks. She highlighted the importance of caucuses in strengthening democracy and democratic institutions. She said that the women caucus at the federal level is focusing on women entrepreneurship, skill development and job creation for women in the economic CPEC project.

Ms. Nusrat Sahar Abbasi, MPA from Sindh Assembly highlighted the achievements by the Sindh Assembly and said that women had worked hard to recognize their space in the political arena. She also said that it is very important to create inter-provincial linkages between women parliamentarians to enable learning best practices.

Ms. Shameela Aslam, General Secretary Caucuses, said that there are a number of legislations have been passed so the major focus shall now be to ensure implementation of pro-women legislation.

Ms. Rai Mumtaz Hussain Babar, Senior Secretary Punjab Assembly, said that the assembly secretariat is providing research and legislative services to its members and vows to provide his support for women caucuses. He appreciated the role of women members during assembly business and highlighted that out of 36 private member bills, women MPs moved 16. Moreover, out of 149 resolutions, 46 has been moved by women MPs.

Dr. Farzana Nazeer, Ex. Convener Women Parliamentary Caucus, congratulated to the new caucus and said she has high hopes to push the women legislative agenda for the implementation of the Women Protection Act 2016, amendments in the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2015 (increase the age of girl marriage), efforts to increase women’s participation in sports, efforts for the establishment of health clubs through specific budgetary allocations, trainings through communication skills, IT training and inter provincial women parliamentarian exposure visits .

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ali Imran, Country Representative, Westminster Foundation for Democracy said that the Foundation is committed to strengthening the parliamentary performances through awareness on post-devolution roles and responsibilities of parliamentarians. He also highlighted the need and importance of provincial-federal parliamentary relationships and understanding of parliamentary procedures.   

Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director, Aurat Foundation said that the Foundation shall provide technical assistance and support for strategic visioning of women caucuses and provide legal backup to the caucuses. She stressed the role of women caucuses in social development, women’s empowerment, protection and economic justice.

The session was attended by over 100 parliamentarians, CSOs activists, government institutions and media personnel including MPAs Dr. Nausheen Hamid, Ms. Sadia Sohail, Ms. Nabeela Hakim, Ms. Tehseen Fawad, Ms. Gulnaz Shahzadi, Ms. Nighat Sheikh, Ms. Zebunisa, Ms. Farzan Butt, Ms. Lubna Faisal, Ms. Shah Jahan, Ms. Salma Butt, Ms Shahzadi Shamim, Ms. Rukhsana Kaukab and others. Speaking on the occasion, participants highlighted the importance of the role of assembly in the implementation of laws, strengthening the coordination among departments and enhancing the monitoring mechanisms. 

Aurat Foundation, as secretariat of Mumkin EVAW Alliance hosted a discussion on the situation of violence against women in Punjab and the role of the alliance members. Ms. Sangeeta Thapa, Deputy Country Representative of UN Women, Ms. Ayshia Mukhtar Programme, Manager UN WOMEN on VAW and Ms. Hoorya Syed, provincial representative of UN Women were present at the meeting.

Ms Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director gave a detailed presentation on the history of the Mumkin alliance, its objectives, strategic plan and the role of alliance members. She also shared the achievements of the Mumkin alliance in Punjab. After her presentation, members also shared their experiences as members of the alliance especially highlighting their efforts around advocacy and lobbying of the Punjab protection of women against violence bill.

Ms. Aaisha Mukhtar spoke about UNWomen’s role and its key focus on ending violence against women. She said UNWomen supports research on various aspects of violence against women in order to increase the available evidence. She also added that UNWomen support studies to determine the levels of violence experienced by women and girls (prevalence studies) and supports the collection of data on the causes and consequences of violence. She said UN Women can joint hand in helping to end VAW in Punjab. 

Ms. Sangeeta Thapa, Deputy Country Representative, UN Women said that women who have been physically or sexually abused by their partners are more than twice as likely to have an abortion; almost twice as likely to experience depression. She added that the structural barriers within Pakistan limit women’s economic potential and there is a need to advocate their rights through this Mumkin Alliance to bring a positive change in women’s lives. She said that the alliance needs to play the role of a watchdog and also make efforts for the formulation of human rights policies at all provincial levels. She stressed that the alliance should join global networks for support and feedback of violence survivors.

Members voice their support for UNWomen to help set up a system for rehabilitation and job placement of survivors of violence. 

2 November 2016: Lahore University of Management Sciences, Shaikh Ahmad Hassan School of Law (LUMS, SAHSOL) signed an MoU with Aurat Foundation on November 2, 2016 at the LUMS Founders’ Room. Prof. Dr. S. Sohail H. Naqvi, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Martin Lau, Dean of SAHSOL, attended the event on behalf of LUMS, while Aurat Foundation was represented by Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director Aurat Foundation, Ms. Hasna Cheema, Deputy Programe Manager GEP, Provincial Manager AAWAZ Voice and Accountibilty Programe, Mr. Anjum Rafiq, Regional Coordinator LISTEN and ICSWDD Programme.

The MOU attempts to create training for of SAHSOL students and other research work, which includes:

1.      To provide students with internship/externship opportunities (that are full supervised and certified) in order to develop a specialist knowledge transfer across AF and SAHSOL;

2.      To collaborate on awareness raising sessions together; and

3.      To collaborate on originating, designing and submitting research and policy   grant applications, especially on the topics of human rights, law and gender.

Aurat Foundation and LUMS are assured that this important step will add towards gender mainstreaming and add to the debate of women’s empowerment. 

Aurat Foundation organized a sensitization session with District Bar Association, Rawalpindi on Oct 18, 2016 at Grace Crown Hotel, Rawalpindi under the project ‘Institutional Support to Govt. of Pakistan for Promoting Human and Women’s Rights’. In this session, a number of lawyers and members of Women Leaders Group, Rawalpindi participated. The main objective of the session was to acquaint them about practicing law and Gender perspectives.

Barrister Benazir Jatoi, Manager Law and Governance, Aurat Foundation was the resource person of the day. She conducted first session on Gender and brain stormed the session on myths and realities regarding “sex & gender”. She used cards to apprehend level of understanding of participants on those terms. She articulated responses to the topic and led them towards the topic. At the end of the exercise, she explained the definitions of “Sex and Gender” according to WHO ‘sex’ refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define men and women,” and ‘Gender’ refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for men and women”.

Second session was started with discussion on “why does the law exist?” This was also open discussion among all participants. Ms. Benazir unfolded the discussion as there are two basic reasons man made law comes into existence. Turning discussion over role of lawyers she opened the forum for mutual discussion on role of lawyers in a society. The discussion turned in debate on role of lawyers. It was brought on to the points that they have very important roles to access justice.

The third session on “Gender Discrimination in the Law” started with exercise named” spot the difference”. For this exercise two copies of the same law after and before the amendment were shared with participants and they were asked to spot the difference. This activity opened up the mindset to accept women as respectable and responsible citizens of the society.

At the end of the discussion, a group work was done regarding two different case stories. This group work was aimed to test the understanding of participants on application of laws on given scenario. Participants were divided into two groups and were assigned to describe the sections of Pakistan Penal Code according to the scenario described in the case stories. After discussion, one participant from each group presented their findings of discussion to the rest of the participants. This resulted that participants have good enough knowledge regarding laws.

Launching ceremony of the ‘Institutional support to Government of Pakistan for promoting human and women’s rights project’ was organized in district Muzaffargarh, on 5  October 2016, attended by women, men, youth, district administration representatives, provincial assembly members, police department, academia, HRCP, and civil society organizations.

The launching ceremony was part of dynamic partnership of Aurat Foundation and Oxfam who are working together for eliminating Gender Based Violence in Pakistan. It was aimed raising awareness of social capital of district Muzaffargarh on Gender Based Violence and mobilizing women, men, youth, CSOs, district administration and bar association to jointly work for eliminating Gender Based Violence in the district. 

Ms. Komal Zahra, Secretory Resource Center, in her welcome address shared that Aurat Foundation and OXFAM has initiated this project for raising awareness among men, women and youth to work together for eliminating Gender Based Violence in district Muzaffargarh. Mr. Anjum Rafique, Regional Program Coordinator, gave an orientation of the project. He said that the project has also been started in districts Rawalpindi and Kasur. 

Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director Aurat Foundation, was invited to share the list of laws that provincial assembly Punjab has passed in recent years. Everybody has the right to get education, basic health facilities and justice, she  said. 

Mr. Hammad Nawaz Khan, MPA – PKMLN, said that it is a good initiative and need of the area. Domestic violence has become a custom in our society and women are treated in-humanly. While no civil society allows this kind of criminal behavior, he said. He assured his full cooperation for the cause. Issues of women were manifested through women songs, theatre, poetry, and speeches. In the end Ms. Huma Nawab, Secretary Women Leaders Group, thanked all the participants for attending this ceremony.

 

Gender Equity Program (GEP) of Aurat Foundation and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) celebrated Independence Day in a ceremony held at FWBL on 12 August, 2016. Chief of Party, GEP, Ms. Simi Kamal and Ms. Mahpara Shakil Ghori, Director CB&EU, FWBL, attended the Ceremony.

Gender Equity Program (GEP) of Aurat Foundation and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) celebrated Independence Day in a ceremony held at FWBL on 12 August, 2016. Chief of Party, GEP, Ms. Simi Kamal and Ms. Mahpara Shakil Ghori, Director CB&EU, FWBL, attended the Ceremony.

Gender Equity Program (GEP) of Aurat Foundation and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) celebrated Independence Day in a ceremony held at FWBL on 12 August, 2016. Chief of Party, GEP, Ms. Simi Kamal and Ms. Mahpara Shakil Ghori, Director CB&EU, FWBL, attended the Ceremony.

Gender Equity Program (GEP) of Aurat Foundation and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) celebrated Independence Day in a ceremony held at FWBL on 12 August, 2016. Chief of Party, GEP, Ms. Simi Kamal and Ms. Mahpara Shakil Ghori, Director CB&EU, FWBL, attended the Ceremony.

Gender Equity Program (GEP) of Aurat Foundation and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) celebrated Independence Day in a ceremony held at FWBL on 12 August, 2016. Chief of Party, GEP, Ms. Simi Kamal and Ms. Mahpara Shakil Ghori, Director CB&EU, FWBL, attended the Ceremony.

Gender Equity Program (GEP) of Aurat Foundation and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) celebrated Independence Day in a ceremony held at FWBL on 12 August, 2016. Chief of Party, GEP, Ms. Simi Kamal and Ms. Mahpara Shakil Ghori, Director CB&EU, FWBL, attended the Ceremony.

Speakers at a public event on ending violence against women urged the government to implement CEDAW and other international conventions to end violence against women in Pakistan. They were invited at the launching ceremony of the Institutional Capacity Strengthening of Women Development Department (ICSWDD) project on 11 August, 2016, at Rawalpindi Arts Council.  The event was organized  jointly by Aurat Foundation, Oxfam Pakistan and Ahsas Foundation.

“Violence against women is on rise every day, but we can control it. Although civil society organisations are doing their best, but unless the government cooperate and fulfill its responsibilities towards ensuring women’s rights, violence against women would continue in one way or the other”, said Mr. Shafique Chaudhry, Member National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR), and former Advisor to Ministry of Human Rights. He stressed that that the government shall sincerely implement the international conventions, which it has ratified over the years, including CEDAW, in true spirit. While talking about the objectives of National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR), he said that the NCHR is planning to introduce the preventive measures to end violence against women.

Mr. Sajid Mehmood, Associate Country Director Oxfam Pakistan, while speaking at the launch, said that Oxfam GB is committed to ensuring women’s rights in Pakistan through various programmes like Gender Justice Programme which is operating in 52 districts in Pakistan. Other programmes which directly or indirectly address women and girls rights include Economic Justice Programme, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Humanitarian Assistance, Governance and Girls Education Programme.

Ms. Khalida Perveen, SHO, Rawalpindi, said that women police is doing its best to address the issue of violence against women. “We have established Women Protection Desks and also developed an online system of FIR registration where women can register complaints of violence against them”, she further said.

Ms. Sarkar Abbas, Advocate Supreme Court of Pakistan, while appreciating Aurat Foundation and civil society’s role in ending violence against women through legislation and policies, said that the government shall ensure implementation of pro-women legislation already passed in recent years. She said that courts are always there to do justice on the issues of violence against women if approached properly. She mentioned the acid throwing case of Zakia Begum, and a recent case of rape of Shabana Riffat, where the culprits were sentenced to life imprisonment. Both the cases were advocated by Ms. Sarkar Abbass, who have also been former member of National Safety Commission, and District Public Safety Commission.

“Violence against women escalate manifold during times of conflicts, wars, terrorism and dictatorship”, said Mr. Naeem Mirza, Chief Operating Officer, Aurat Foundation, while speaking at the project launch. He was referring to suicide bombing and mass shootouts in Pakistan like the Quetta carnage, the other day. While tracing the roots of violence against women, he said that the ‘power and control’ is the only weapon which men exploit to suppress women through violence. Violence against women is a centuries’ old phenomenon, but the positive thing to celebrate today is that now there are laws to protect women against violence and discrimination and empower them politically and economically. Referring to great philosophers like Aristotle, who said that women are mutilated part of men, and Sigmund Fried, were all anti-women. He praised women leaders like Razia Sultana, Rani Jhansi, and recent times’ great Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.

Ms. Mumtaz Mughul, Resident Director, Aurat Foundation, Punjab, said that through this programme Aurat Foundation and Oxfam will work together with the district governments and Women Leaders’ Group (WLG) to ensure the implementation of 100 plus women’s rights initiatives taken by the Government of Punjab. This project is designed to make its working three districts (Kasur, Rawalpindi and Muzaffargarh) as ‘Violence Free Districts’.

Earlier, Ms Shamaila Tanvir, National Programme Coordinator, Institutional Capacity Strengthening of Women Development Department (ICSWDD) project of Aurat Foundation, while sharing the salient features of the project, said that AF, in collaboration with Oxfam GB, is striving to work closely with Women Development Department, Government of Punjab, in developing their road map and enhance their capacity in implementing ‘Women Empowerment Package’ of the Chief Minister in Punjab which aims to achieve sustainable development through women empowerment and gender justice. She said AF is currently working in three districts of Punjab i.e. Kasur, Rawalpindi and Muzaffargarh to implement, monitor and evaluate women empowerment initiatives to put collective efforts in making these districts ‘Violence Free Districts’.

Mr. Shafique Chaudhry, Member NCHR, Mr. Sajid Mehmood, Associate Country Director Oxfam, Ms. Khalida Perveen, SHO, Rawalpindi, Ms. Sarkar Abbas, Advocate Supreme Court, Ms. Asma, Superintendent Dar-ul-Aman, Ms. Mumtaz Mughul, Resident Director, Aurat Foundation, Ms. Razia Sultana and Ms. Riffat Sultana, President and Secretary (respectively) Women Leaders Group Rawalpindi, Mr. Younas Khalid, Chief Strategy and Policy Officer, Aurat Foundation, Mr. Asim Malak, Director Outreach and Networking, Aurat Foundation, Ms. Saleema Muneer, Programme Manager Oxfam, were presented shields for their services for women’s rights.

Aurat Foundation organized a progress review of LISTEN project during its Annual Planning and Review Meeting on 26 June 2016 at Nathia Gali. Objective of the meeting was to discuss and review the progress of LISTEN project, including assessment of project interventions, success indicators, and future strategy for way forward to implement the objectives of the project.

Ms. Shamaila Tanvir, National Programme Coordinator, briefed about the different dynamics of LISTEN project.  While discussing on future strategy of the project, she said that the entire LISTEN team should focus on exploring innovative ways to implement the project objectives and also for engaging policy makers, politicians, legislators and decision makers in this process of change. She also pointed out that society seriously lacks of ideology and vision. Speaking about the socio-political context of the society, she said, “We as a nation will have to head on towards the industrial revolution if we seriously want to combat the giants of poverty, inflation, unemployment and other socio- political and economic instabilities”. Mr. Asim Malik, Director Outreach and Networks, stressed on the need of holding healthy dialogues and discussions among AF staff on different social, political and economic issues of special concern. He further added that knowledge is a source of producing mindset and building ideology thus acquiring knowledge and reproducing it should be continuous feature and LISTEN project is greatly contributing in this regards.

Mr. Anjum Rafique and Ms. Malka Khan, Regional Coordinators, LISTEN project, discussed in detail about the achievements and challenges they faced during implementation of the project. They said lack of political will for legislation on women issues, unavailability of proper budget allocation for provincial alliance building, lack of coordination, extremism and excessive work were the main hurdles in the way of implementing LISTEN activities. The participants stressed the need  to engage women leaders groups more efficiently for project implementation in 30 districts and influencing policy makers, ensuring effective community engagement through capacity building, awareness raising and advocacy for the rights and protection of women, discriminated and marginalized groups of the communities.

Aurat Foundation organized an annual learning and review meeting with stakeholders under the Institutional Capacity Strengthening of Women Development Department (ICSWDD) project on 25th of June 2016 at Nathia Gali. The meeting was aimed at the overview of the project, learning of the inception phase, future strategy and planning of activities to generate support at district level for a Gender Based Violence (GBV) free district keeping in mind the project extension with further inclusion of Rawalpindi and Muzaffargarh, all being done in cooperation with Oxfam GB.

In the meeting, Ms. Shamaila Tanvir, National Programme Coordinator, presented a comprehensive review of GBV situation in Punjab with inclusive insight into the purpose and functioning of the project.  She said that project is designed to facilitate a process that leads to women empowerment and inclusion while exploring the possible modes for carrying out some reinforcing initiatives to collaborate with the Women Development Department of Government of Punjab. The programme is centered on bringing change at three levels: household, civil society and the state systems. This institutional capacity building initiative will direct to better prioritization, ownership, oversight and impact. The project is envisioned to bring about a sustainable change through a set of activities including sensitization of government officials, filling staff gaps, providing equipment, developing measurable impact indicators about their gender role in development initiatives and their impact on both men and women, ensuring women gain access to and control over financial resources, and leadership opportunities.

Furthermore, Mr. Anjum Rafiq, Regional Coordinator, Punjab and Ms Uzma Idrees, Secretary District Resource Center, Kasur, shared project implementation strategies and lessons learned during project’s initial implementation phase in district Kasur. She highlighted the major achievements of the project and shared some challenges faced during the implementation of the project.  Ms. Komal Zahra, Secretary District Resource Center, Muzaffargarh, shared findings of SWOT Analysis.

For better implementation of the project at district level, SWOT analysis was conducted and each team of three districts presented their findings keeping in view the contextual background of their area.  After a discussion on SWOT findings, Mr. Asim Malak, Director Outreach and Network, Aurat Foundation, shared the strategies required for implementing the project in accordance with approved work-plan. Mr. Muhammad Ayaz, Assistant Manager M&E Aurat Foundation, explained monitoring, evaluation and reporting technicalities required for reporting activities and outcome achieved during project implementing.

Civil society organizations and networks organised a candle light vigil to pay tribute to renowned qawwali singer Amjad Sabri who was murdered in Karachi on 22 June 2016.  In their condolence message they strongly condemned the murder of Amjad Sabri as an attempt to diminish socio-cultural spaces from society. 

The vigil, held on 24 June 2016, outside Karachi Press Club, was jointly called by Aurat Foundation, PILER, PQF, Qazi Faiz Memorial (QFM) Committee, Voice of Sindh and Concerned Citizens.

Ms. Mahnaz Rahman, Resident Director, and Ms. Malka Khan Program Officer, represented Aurat Foundation.

Aurat Foundation, in collaboration with Women Learning Partnership (WLP), organised a six days Training of Trainers in Nathia Gali from 16-21 June 2016. Aurat Foundation and WLP enjoy a longstanding partnership for empowerment of women and joined hands to build capacity of leading advocacy organizations and networks across Pakistan. Through such capacity building trainings a number of women’s rights defenders are trained and imparted with advocacy and lobbying skills in community based networks.

The objective of the TOT was to reflection on discriminatory perceptions, attitudes and practices, develop a common understanding on gender and women rights and anti-women practices.

Substance of various sessions included: Enabling a selected group of facilitators to review and evaluate the success of leadership and political participation workshops, building knowledge and training capacity of a new group of facilitators, strengthening each partner’s capacity for follow up and evaluation, thus bolstering their national/regional outreach, and  supporting the WLP partnership by sharing information, building organizational capacity, and deepening understanding of each partner’s unique context and opportunities.

 

Ms. Rabeea Hadi, Director Advocacy, conducted the training, and Ms. Hina Akram, Assistant Manager Capacity Building, facilitated the training.

Aurat Foundation, in collaboration with Trocaire and AusDFAT organized a Show & Tell Convention on 15 June, 2016 at Islamabad.

The event was organized to provide an opportunity to the event, Gender Based Violence (GBV) response institutions to showcase their performance and services related to the strategies adopted for minimizing GBV against women and girls. The institutions like Women Parliamentary Caucus, National Police Bureau, Ministry of Human Rights, medico-legal officers and shelters etc. from the national and provincial capitals (Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) highlighted their progress within their respective domains and the challenges faced during effective service delivery.

Mr. M Hassan Mangi, DG (IC), Ministry of Human Rights, in his address that said that the ministry is pro-actively working on fine-tuning of various women and children friendly laws and would very soon sent to the parliament.  For example, the draft policy on violence against women, recently developed in collaboration with Aurat Foundation, would soon be sent for approval.  Similarly, the ministry has successfully introduced some amendments in the Criminal Law (Second Amendment) Act 2016, recently signed by the President of Pakistan, which states that any cruelty with the child would be dealt with as criminal activity.  An amendment has been made in section 83 of  the PPC in which age of  a  child has  been increased from seven to  ten tears  when s/he is  able to judge the  consequences of  his /  her conduct.  

The ministry is also working on devising a law to address the child labour in the Islamabad Capital Territory.  “We are also working on to finally fine tune the draft policy for home-based women workers and adopt it for implementation. Laws Reforms Committee in the Senate is also reviewing law to end violence against women and girls workers”, he further said.

Ms.  Rabeea Hadi, refereeing to Mr. Hasan Mangi’s comments on the proposed policy on violence against women, said that the draft policy is present on the website of the Ministry of Human Rights for the comments from parliamentarians and concerned women and human rights activists and government institutions from all four provinces.  The increase in number of reported cases of violence against women sometimes put us in deep disappointments but in events like this where we share our experiences gives us hope and provide us joint strategies on combating violence against women, she further said.

Mr. John O Brien, Country Director, Trocaire, while briefing Trocaire’s work on ending violence against women, in his address said that Trocaire is also struggling hard with the national civil society organizations to end violence against women.

Ms. Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Chairperson Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC), while addressing the gathering, said that WPC has been on the forefront to ensure women’s empowerment through active legislation.  She said the WPC is building partnership with civil society and national and international organizations to end the violence against women.  Recently MoUs  were signed with some credible organization like Aurat Foundation  and Henrich Boll Foundation. 

Ms. Huma Chughtai, Technical Advisor, WPC, gave a detail presentation on WPC’s vision, mission, key objectives and strategies.  She said that the MoU signed  between Aurat Foundation & WPC  on 19 May 2015 had  three basic features to work  on:  addressing GBV issues according to their respective mandates, discussing the existing pro-women laws, procedural and implementation gaps, and sensitization of the legislators on primary and secondary legislations on women issues, and to enhance the knowledge of newly elected women parliamentarians on legislative process through seminars and workshops proposed by Aurat Foundation for members of the Caucus.

During this one year partnership, various activities were organized including orientation session on ‘Legislative Business and Role of Parliamentarians in Pro-Women legislations’, study circles on ‘SGDs Post Development Agenda’, observing ‘16 Days of Activism to Eliminate VAW’, addressing women’s and girl’s health issues in Pakistan and its impact on their productive economic lives, and on ‘Child Marriages Restraint Bill 2014’ etc.

Ms.  Mahreen Maqsood, Deputy Director, National Police  Bureau, appreciated the  reporting of  violence against  women  by the Gender Crime Cell and  National Police Bureau, though NPB does  not have  infrastructure and resources to  publish that  data.  The National Police Bureau acts as think tank for Ministry of Interior on collecting and analyzing the data on cases of violence against women.  She said that to end violence against women country needs a national action plan.  She also emphasized on providing training to women police to actively response the violence against women cases, and for that the NPB need support from civil society organizations.  The NPB is working on toll free help line for women and children to address the cases of violence against women and girls, and we would be looking forward to bring all the similar toll free lines established by other organizations together at one point.

Ms. Munaza  Hasan, member  WPC, commenting on  the  work done reference to the partnership between Aurat Foundation and WPC, said that  although we still need more  laws on women’s rights, but  we shall strive hard that the already passed  laws are executed fully.   She also pointed out that there is a need that women shall be given easy knowledge and information about such laws so that they could defend their rights.

Mr. Shafqat Javaid, Director General, Ministry of Health, said, “as a doctor I see violence against women is a public health issue.  We need to see if the health policy also addresses violence against other sections of society e.g. the trance-gender community”.  He also pointed out gaps in the medico-legal services in addressing the gender based violence which needed to be addressed.  He also  pointed out  that  the lack of  gender based  data on  violence  against  women hinders  addressing the  GBV.   The issue of reporting violence cases is weak, and it is leaked out to help the culprits, he further said.

Ms.  Meraj Khan, Member KP Assembly, and  Chairperson Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Women  Parliamentary Caucus, in her address said that  united  struggle of members of the provincial caucus has brought many achievements e.g. having a separate ministry for  women and celebrating  the International Women’s Day in the provincial assembly for  the first time.  While pointing out the gaps in addressing women’s empowerment, she said that there is no ‘women empowerment department’.  She also criticized the allocation of very low budget for women’s social welfare i.e. only Rs.1.6 billion in the recent budget, but she hoped to get some more budget form Chief Minister’s special budget.

Mr. Taimur Khattak, Deputy Public Prosecutor from KP, in his presentation, covered the state of prosecution in GBV cases.  While briefing on  the achievements on women’s  empowerment in the  KP, he mentioned the passage of The North-West Frontier Province Establishment of a Commission on the Status of Women Act 2009, Elimination of Custom of Ghag Act 2013 enacted by Provincial Government of KP, passage of KP Deserving Widows and Special Persons Foundation  Act, 2014, women empowerment policy, wherein Provincial Commission on the Status of Women has been given autonomy to address all forms of violence against women.

Ms. Roohi Khan Babar from Noor Education Trust (NET), in her presentation briefed the audience about the aims, objectives and services of the Trust. The Mera Ghar Rehabilitation Program (Response Program) responds through direct intervention for protection and empowerment of GBV survivors and promoting awareness and education on Fundamental Human Rights.  While mentioning the achievements so far she said that the NET registered survivors 1900, provided free legal aid to 3000 survivors, trained community groups on prevention, response and advocacy, established referral network.

The The reflections on GBV Programme Sindh was given by Ms. Rubina Quaimkhani,  Member Sindh Assembly, Ms. Saira Furqan,  Manager SBBCW,  Ms. Rehana Yaqoob from Shelter, Mr. Iqbal Detho, Lawyer / Human Rights Activists, Mr. Faizullah Korejo,  AIG, Sindh Police, and Ms. Mahnaz Rahman, RD, Aurat Foundation.

First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) and Aurat Foundation (AF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a prestigious ceremony held at Islamabad on May 26, 2016. The event was organized to showcase the products developed under ‘Women Making Strides in Economic Empowerment’ and focusing on how Gender Equity Programme (GEP) has developed a linked progress on helping women grow economically under USAID grant and recognizing the role of National Advisory Forum of GEP.

The MoU was inked by Ms. Tahira Raza, President FWBL and Ms. Anis Haroon, AF Senior Representative. Ms. Simi Kamal, Chief of Party GEP, AF and Ms. Fouzia Janjua, SVP/ Coordinator Development Cell and Strategic Initiatives witnessed the signing of MoU.

The FWBL and AF are determined to work together to strengthen, promote and create new value with an aim to provide financial services at doorsteps to unbanked women. The FWBL and AF have join hands and shown commitment to serve the women of Pakistan by changing their role from passive beneficiaries of social support to active catalyst of change and economic empowerment.

Under the MOU responsibilities FWBL will create a platform for empowering women for inculcating the habit to save money as well as get access to finance to establish new business and or develop existing business. FWBL will enhance women’s economic empowerment through capacity building, skills development and by imparting trainings on banking products, customer service delivery and support.

AF will share complete data of women population along with network support with FWBL and enable FWBL in contacting them. AF will also facilitate FWBL in identification of clusters in respective geographical regions in order to develop tailor made banking products and services that can help FWBL in the economic empowerment of Women of Pakistan.

The event was attended by leading women activists, female judges and prominent lawyers, representatives from academia, GEP Pakistan Gender Coalition members, GEP female beneficiaries from different provinces, USAID representative, media and press.

Aurat Foundation, on behalf of its Executive Director Ms. Nigar Ahmad, presented the first ever ‘HABIB JALIB COURAGE AWARD to women rights activist Ms. Nasreen Azhar in recognition of her services for democracy, human rights and women’s rights.  The award was arranged in memory of ‘12 February 1983 – Lahore demonstration against discriminatory laws’ in which Habib  Jalib  was also baton charged along with other  women’s rights activists.

Mian  Raza Rabbani, Chairman Senate of Pakistan, was the Chief  Guest, and presented  the award to Ms. Nasreen Azhar.  Speakers included former senator Mr. Afrasayab Khattak of Awami National Party, Senator Mir Hasil Bazinjo of the National Party’s, Mr. Naeem Mirza, Chief Operating Officer Aurat  Foundation, and Mr. Mujahid Barelvi, a senior journalist who  has written two books on Habib Jalib.

The ceremony witnessed climax when Jalib’s daughter Ms. Tahira Jalib read out the poem ‘Aise dastoor ko, subh-e-benor ko, main nahi manta, main nahi janta’ in the same way, his father did.

After 3-month trainings, conducted by College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM), a team of 80 females received their certificates in ‘Front Office Skills’ and ‘Culinary Arts Skills’.  The trainings were conducted under USAID supported Gender Equity Programme (GEP) of Aurat Foundation titled ‘Innovative Approaches to Promoting Women’s Economic Empowerment’. These women from less privileged localities of Orangi Town, Malir, Kemari and Korangi of Karachi, also received trainings in ‘Basic Computer Skills’ and ‘English Language & Communication’ for enhancing their confidence and facilitating their entry into the industry. The certificate distribution ceremony was held on 29 April, 2016, at the COTHM Karachi Campus in Gulshan-e-Iqbal. As part of the GEP, COTHM is also supporting the certified trainees in getting employment, and some of the trainees have already been hired by renowned corporates like Marriott Hotel, Pak Airways, KFC and Pizza Hut, while others have their interviews lined up in the coming weeks.

 

Launching ceremony of USAID-supported Project ‘Supporting Female Graduates’ Access into Information Technology Sectors through Internship Programs’, a collaboration between Hamdard University and Aurat Foundation’s Gender Equity Programme (GEP), was organized on 20 April, 2016, at Hamdard University’s Madinat-ul-Hikmah campus, Karachi. The event was attended by representatives of corporate sector, universities, academia, NGOs, and media.  Ms. Naushaba Khalid, Director K&N Foods, Pakistan, was the Chief Guest at the occasion.

The event highlighted key activities and objectives of the project which aims to link fresh IT graduates to the market in terms of the internships and job opportunities available in IT Sector. The project will equip120 female IT graduates with employable IT skills along with the knowledge on women friendly environment, gender sensitization and laws on women protection.

Ms. Mahnaz Rahman, Resident Director, Aurat Foundation, talked about the critical role GEP has played for the betterment and empowerment of women in Pakistan in the past six years. Dr. Zubair A. Shaikh, President, Muhammad Ali Jinnah University, emphasized the importance of changing the paradigm and enabling more females to take up Information Technology as their career choice. Dr. Humaira Farooq, Head of Computer Science Department Bahria University, talked about the accomplishments made by women in the computing field. Ms. Alia Hasan, Faculty Member, IBA Karachi, spoke about the Career Success of Women.

Chief Guest Ms. Naushaba Khalid said that IT has penetrated a little late in our society and women have been a little wary of stepping into this profession. GEP’s initiative through Hamdard University is like opening a door for females to enter the IT profession. She looked forward to assembling again to hear the success stories of these females. Professor Dr. Hakeem Abdul Hannan said that women’s contribution is of utmost importance and twice in the history of Hamdard Foundation, at the time of major crises, it were women who led the institute. 

Launching ceremony of USAID supported ‘Enhancing Women’s Economic Empowerment’ project, a joint venture of Aurat Foundation’s Gender Equity Programme (GEP) and Management & Development Foundation (MDF), was held on 12 April, 2016, at Arts Council, Karachi. The event was attended by representatives of Women Development Department, CSOs, NGOs, project beneficiaries, and other stakeholders.

MDF, through this project, will train 60 housewives of Sakhi Hassan area in Karachi to cook hygienic food and distribute as lunch boxes to the nearby industries and offices. MDF will also establish their linkages with corporate sector in Karachi who are the end beneficiaries of this project. These women will also be given basic knowledge about developing their small enterprise, market linkages as well as methods to sustain their business beyond the life of this project.

The project objectives and scope were presented in detail to the participants. Ms. Musarat Jabeen, Deputy Director, Women Development Department, Sindh, expressed her appreciation of the project which has provided opportunity to women to take part in change, advance women rights, and reduce poverty at household level. Ms. Mehnaz Rehman, Resident Director, Aurat Foundation, appreciated MDF Management for close coordination and involving all stakeholders for the project launch.

On April 7, 2016, Post Master General (PMG) of Balochistan Mr. Khalid Awais Ranjha visited Aurat Foundation Quetta office. The visit of PMG was planned on his request. During his visit, discussion was made on the background of Aurat Foundation, ongoing projects and sub-grants awarded in Balochistan under Gender Equity Program (GEP).

Mr. Ranjha showed great interest towards the activities of Aurat Foundation in Balochistan and desired to extend his support. In reply Aurat Foundation team thanked him for visiting Quetta office. He was asked to help regional office in spreading women’s rights messages, by printing  such messages on the back of mailing envelops for the awareness of masses. He assured regional team for his complete support and also asked to devise messages that can be printed on the postal envelops.

At the end of meeting Mr. Haroon Dawood, Resident Director,  along  with Aurat Foundation’s team, thanked PMG for his visit and extending support to regional office for promoting women’s rights agenda in Balochistan through messages.    

A delegation of Aurat Foundation’s Quetta office, comprising Resident Director, Deputy Programme Manager – GEP and IT officer GEP, visited the office of Honourable Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court Justice Muhammad Noor Muskanzai on 1 April 2016. The meeting was planned on the request of Aurat Foundation regional office and a renowned woman lawyer Ms. Irum Mehmood to discuss the issue of the implementation of Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2010 in the premises of courts, establishment of women friendly spaces and development of Gender Sensitive HR policies for court premises in Balochistan.

Honorable Chief Justice informed the delegation of Aurat Foundation that after the inauguration of Women Friendly Spaces (WFS) established by GEP sub-grantee in session court Sibi, high court of Balochistan has proposed the establishment of WFS in every court premises as the part of new construction and renovation. At the end of meeting, Honorable chief Justice assured the delegation of every help in the implementation of pro-women laws and policies in the courts of Balochistan.      

A delegation of Aurat Foundation’s Quetta office, comprising Resident Director, Deputy Programme Manager – GEP and IT officer GEP, visited the office of Honourable Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court Justice Muhammad Noor Muskanzai on 1 April 2016. The meeting was planned on the request of Aurat Foundation regional office and a renowned woman lawyer Ms. Irum Mehmood to discuss the issue of the implementation of Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2010 in the premises of courts, establishment of women friendly spaces and development of Gender Sensitive HR policies for court premises in Balochistan.

Honorable Chief Justice informed the delegation of Aurat Foundation that after the inauguration of Women Friendly Spaces (WFS) established by GEP sub-grantee in session court Sibi, high court of Balochistan has proposed the establishment of WFS in every court premises as the part of new construction and renovation. At the end of meeting, Honorable chief Justice assured the delegation of every help in the implementation of pro-women laws and policies in the courts of Balochistan.      

A delegation of Aurat Foundation’s Quetta office, comprising Resident Director, Deputy Programme Manager – GEP and IT officer GEP, visited the office of Honourable Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court Justice Muhammad Noor Muskanzai on 1 April 2016. The meeting was planned on the request of Aurat Foundation regional office and a renowned woman lawyer Ms. Irum Mehmood to discuss the issue of the implementation of Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2010 in the premises of courts, establishment of women friendly spaces and development of Gender Sensitive HR policies for court premises in Balochistan.

Honorable Chief Justice informed the delegation of Aurat Foundation that after the inauguration of Women Friendly Spaces (WFS) established by GEP sub-grantee in session court Sibi, high court of Balochistan has proposed the establishment of WFS in every court premises as the part of new construction and renovation. At the end of meeting, Honorable chief Justice assured the delegation of every help in the implementation of pro-women laws and policies in the courts of Balochistan.      

A delegation of Aurat Foundation’s Quetta office, comprising Resident Director, Deputy Programme Manager – GEP and IT officer GEP, visited the office of Honourable Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court Justice Muhammad Noor Muskanzai on 1 April 2016. The meeting was planned on the request of Aurat Foundation regional office and a renowned woman lawyer Ms. Irum Mehmood to discuss the issue of the implementation of Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2010 in the premises of courts, establishment of women friendly spaces and development of Gender Sensitive HR policies for court premises in Balochistan.

Honorable Chief Justice informed the delegation of Aurat Foundation that after the inauguration of Women Friendly Spaces (WFS) established by GEP sub-grantee in session court Sibi, high court of Balochistan has proposed the establishment of WFS in every court premises as the part of new construction and renovation. At the end of meeting, Honorable chief Justice assured the delegation of every help in the implementation of pro-women laws and policies in the courts of Balochistan.      

A delegation of Aurat Foundation’s Quetta office, comprising Resident Director, Deputy Programme Manager – GEP and IT officer GEP, visited the office of Honourable Chief Justice of Balochistan High Court Justice Muhammad Noor Muskanzai on 1 April 2016. The meeting was planned on the request of Aurat Foundation regional office and a renowned woman lawyer Ms. Irum Mehmood to discuss the issue of the implementation of Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2010 in the premises of courts, establishment of women friendly spaces and development of Gender Sensitive HR policies for court premises in Balochistan.

Honorable Chief Justice informed the delegation of Aurat Foundation that after the inauguration of Women Friendly Spaces (WFS) established by GEP sub-grantee in session court Sibi, high court of Balochistan has proposed the establishment of WFS in every court premises as the part of new construction and renovation. At the end of meeting, Honorable chief Justice assured the delegation of every help in the implementation of pro-women laws and policies in the courts of Balochistan.      

On 17 March 2016, Aurat Foundation Quetta organized an in-house session on ‘NGO-State relations: Women NGOs in Focus’, at its office, for its staff and Pakistan Gender Coalition (PGC) members as part of AF’s efforts to provide learning opportunities to its staff and partners. The resource person of the activity was Dr. Aurangzaib Alamgir who is serving as Assistant Professor in Department of Internal Relations at Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) Quetta.  

Dr. Aurangzaib delivered detailed lecture on the topic and started with the history of emergence of State System. He said that, State System was introduced and established in 1648 through issuance of ‘First International Order’. The order was issued after 80 years of war to keep peace and harmony. He said that, due to State System peace remained till 1914. After WWI, the state system remained intact but anarchy spread all over the world. He said that, United Nations (UN) came into being in 1945 to stop that anarchy. Then the NGO system started in the world.

He said that NGOs should have four characteristics to influence, like, access to the government, support of public, knowledge of regime type (government / political parties) and wait for the suitable time. Explaining the NGO-State relations he said that, there are three types of relationship between both parties: cooperation, confrontation and complimentary. He said that, NGOs of Pakistan are in cooperation and as well as in complimentary mood. He stressed that bureaucracy is the major obstacle in the path of good relationships between government and NGOs in Pakistan.

He informed participants that, ‘Sisters in Islam’ a Malaysian women rights organization is an Islamic feminist organization which works on women’s legal rights according to teachings of Islam and push government to legislate new women-friendly laws by taking on board the religious parties. He said that the organization forced government of Malaysia to legislate and amend the ‘Polygamy’ law in light of Quranic Verses. And, as a result, according to new Law of Polygamy, it is now compulsory for all men to prove before the court of law that why the second marriage is necessary for them. They can marry after the approval of court.

He further said that Pakistan is a very crucial country for outside world due to its geographical presence. Due to external involvement, Pakistan is not only combating with terrorist organizations but also ensuring to control the internal factors as well, like surveillance on NGO etc. He said that US is the highest contributor to UN with bearing the twenty five percent of expenditures of it. Other big countries like China and western world are not contributing as much. He said that, new International Order is in the making and soon it will be declared to change the things.

At the end, participants shared their views and praised the efforts of AF for arranging such an informative session for them. Mr. Haroon Dawood, Resident Director AF, Quetta, thanked Dr. Aurangzaib on behalf of AF for delivering a highly knowledgeable lecture and also thanked PGC members for their presence.  

Ms. Mahnaz Rahman, Resident Director, Aurat Foundation Karachi and Ms. Fareeda Tahir, Program Officer, arranged an advocacy meeting with Mr. Ahmed Bakhsh Narejo, Secretary Minorities, Government of Sindh.  In the meeting Mr. Ahmed Bakhsh Nareejo said that their department is working for safeguarding, protecting and promoting the rights of minorities. “The Government of Pakistan is responsible to guarantee equal rights to minority communities under Article 25 of the Constitution and we are coordinating with Federal Government on minority affairs”, he further said.

While briefing the Secretary Minorities on Aurat Foundation’s work, Ms. Mahnaz Rahman, said that they are continuously lobbying with MNAs, MPAs, Government officials, Police Department, Lawyers, NGOs, CBOs and minorities leaders on women’s rights issues.  During the last few years Sindh Assembly  has passed some important women and minorities rights bills like ‘The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013’, ‘The Sindh Child Marriages Restraint Act 2013’, ‘The Sindh Hindu Marriage bill, 2015’, and  struggling  hard that the  Forced Conversion Bill shall also be passed from the Sindh Assembly.

Ms. Fareeda Tahir said that Aurat  Foundation has  conducted Focus Group Discussions with  minorities and one meetings with concerned government officials for the allocation of 5% quota of jobs for minorities.  

Under the LISTEN project, Aurat Foundation in collaboration with Oxfam GB and Ahsas Welfare Foundation, organized a launching ceremony of ZEWER (Zeal Efforts for Women Empowerment & Rights) project on International Women’s Day, 8 March, 2016, at Pakistan National Council of Art (PNCA), Islamabad. The project is attributed as an achievement of women leaders’ struggle. It would be implemented in four districts namely Chakwal, Rawalpindi, Nowshera and Attock. This collaborative effort was made to appreciate women leaders group efforts towards sustainability and continuity of LISTEN project. The project is aimed at right based advocacy and social development by providing education, skill and entrepreneurship to the deprived and marginalised girls in four districts at the first stage.

The event was attended by honourable guests like H.E. E. A. S. Wijayanthi Edirisinghe, Deputy High Commissioner Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Ambassador of Ukraine H.E. Volodymyr Lakomov, parliamentarians, social activist and women leaders groups.

On the occasion Mr. Naeem Ahmed Mirza, COO, Aurat Foundation, said that women are more than 50% of the population of Pakistan and hence deserve 50% share in jobs, and natural resources, land, education and development, and in fact half of the planet as per theme for this year’s International Women Day i.e. ‘Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality.

Mr. Lakomov said that for empowerment education of women is necessary and women of Pakistan are brave for peace and prosperity of the nation their inclusion is necessary. While addressing the ceremony, Ms. Edirisinghe said that Pakistani women are hard worker and they are contributing a lot not only at national level but also international level. She gave example of Ms. Sharmeen Obaid and Ms. Malala Yousafzai. She said there is a need to make women stronger to build not only good economy but also good society.

Aurat Foundation celebrated the passage of landmark legislation the ‘Protection of Women against Violence Act 2016’ on 3 March 2016, at Avari Hotel, Lahore. The event was organized by AAWAZ Program in collaboration with Oxfam GB. Addressing the occasion, the speakers said that for the first time in the history of the country, a substantial protection is provided to the women against violence. They said that the government responded positively to the demands of civil society, particularly Aurat Foundation, with active participation and cooperation of members of the parliament both from treasury and opposition benches.

A large number of the members of Punjab Assembly and civil society organization including Begum Zakia Shahnawaz, Begum Hameeda Waheed-ud-Din, Justice (R) Nasira Javed Iqbal, Ms. Uzma Bukhari, Ms. Faiza Malik, Dr Nousheen Hamid, Dr. Farzana Nazir, Ms. Shuneela Ruth, Ms. Shumila Aslam, former parliamentarians Ms. Mehnaz Rafi, Ms. Sajida Mir, Ms.  Amna Ulfat, Ms. Salman Sufi, senior member Punjab Government’s Special Monitoring Unit, Mr. Naeem Mirza, Chief Operating Officer, Aurat Foundation, Ms. Mumtaz Mughal, Resident Director Aurat Foundation Lahore, Mr. Harris Khalique, Team Leader DAI, Mr. Mohammad Tahseen, Executive Director SAP Pakistan, and  Mr.  Salman Abid, Regional head SPO.

Adviser to the Chief Minister Mr. Salman Sufi said, “We faced a lot of resistance to the Protection of Women against Violence law which shows that the bill covers all forms of violence against women. This is not a war between men and women”. He said that the law provided a comprehensive implementation strategy. He said that ambulances and legal and police help would be provided at protection centers. He also said that  the Government of Punjab would discuss reservations of the religious leaders on the law clause by clause.

Ms. Hameeda Wahid-ud-Din, Provincial Minister for Women Development, said the law had provided a mechanism for protection of women. Apart from protection centers, committees would also be constituted at district levels. Committee officers would be responsible for mediation.

Ms. Zakia Shahnawaz, Minister for Population Welfare and Environment, said, “there was a misconception that the PML-N was not a women-friendly party. This legislation has proved how wrong that is”.

Mr. Naeem Mirza appreciated the commitment by Ms. Faiza Malik from the Pakistan People’s Party and Ms. Nosheen Hamid from the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), who had taken the bill forward. The passage of the bill is an outcome of years long struggle by the citizens of the Pakistan. He said the law would prevent all forms of violence against women by dealing with circumstances that lead to heinous crimes such as acid attacks and honour killings. He said 90 countries across the world had laws against domestic violence, including Saudi Arabia. “When will the Council of Islamic Ideology understand that the world has changed?” he further said.  He said the bill provided a comprehensive framework for the protection of women.

Ms. Mumtaz Mughal said, “Our effort towards legislation was started in 2002 and in subsequent years it was taken up in the National Assembly and the provincial assemblies by various lawmakers”.  She said the civil society had continued lobbying efforts for the passage of the bill under successive governments.

Mr. Mohammad Tahseen paid tribute to all the women members of Punjab Assembly who rose above party lines to vote for the bill. He further said effective implementation of law will provide a comprehensive solution of violence against women.

Ms. Mary Gill, MPA, Punjab Assembly, said most of the reservations against the bill were about a tracking bracelet on the accused. She said it was meant to be used only in case of repeat offenders. She said it would act as a deterrent. She also said the legislature had taken an important stand against a social evil.

The speakers called upon the government to ensure the effective implementation of the law and stressed to allocate sufficient budget for the smooth and effective working of various districts protection committees in this regard. The speakers welcomed the provision of the law to impose a penalty and imprisonment to the person for obstructing the protection officer in official proceedings.

Aurat Foundation conducted a ‘2-Day Capacity Building and Gender Sensitization Training on Pro-women Laws’ with prosecutors on 27-28 February, 2016, at PC Hotel, Karachi. Ms. Mahnaz Rahman, Resident Director, briefed the committee about gender and explained the cultural influences that pertain to the restraints that arise regarding both feminine and masculine gender. This followed with a detailed discourse about CEDAW, an international women rights convention that aims to eradicate violence against women, which was signed by Pakistan in 1996. Among the six parts of the convention, the first four parts of the convention were discussed in detail. This followed a detailed session  on laws regarding women and human rights  in PPC and the constitution of Pakistan by Advocate Iqbal Detho.

On second day, Justice (R) Majida Rizvi, Chairperson Sindh Human Rights Commission, gaved  a presentation  to the committee of persecutors on the formation, struggles and the working of the Commission. She also mentioned the types of cases the commission deals with. Mr. Faizullah Korejo, SSP South, highlighted the problems of the prosecutors and the incoordination between the police and the prosecutors. The session adjourned with a certificate distribution ceremony by Ms Kulsoom Chandio,  Mr. Faizullah Korejo, Ms Mahnaz Rahman and Justice (R) Majida Rizvi.