The workshop facilitated by the Aurat Foundation and sponsored by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) was conducted from October 23-25, 2024 in Islamabad. This workshop included valuable insights from Mian Najeeb Aslam, former Director General of Local Government and Community Development in the Government of Punjab, and Governance Specialist at the Asian Development Bank, Pakistan.

This workshop aimed to empower CSOs and media personnel in effectively engaging with provincial government processes, monitoring budgets, and tracking government expenditures. The ultimate goal of the manual is to strengthen the role of CSOs and media in promoting transparency, accountability, and advocacy within governance. This exercise gave an opportunity to gather insights from experts in relevant fields to ensure the content aligns with project objectives and effectively meets the needs of the target audience.

The training approach emphasized interactive engagement, ensuring that participants not only received knowledge but also fully understood it. Trainers encouraged open discussions, creating a forum for feedback, questions, and suggestions. The training provided illustrative examples of successful public participation in budgeting and local development initiatives, showcasing best practices that can be replicated in other contexts.

In the closing ceremony, Mr. Najeeb Aslam expressed his gratitude to Aurat Foundation and NDI for placing their trust in him and offering the opportunity to develop the training manual on such an important topic. He thanked the organizers for their support and collaboration throughout the process, highlighting the significance of the manual in empowering CSOs and media personnel to engage effectively in governance processes.

Mr. Sagir Hashmi, Grants and Finance Manager at NDI expressed confidence that the skills developed would contribute positively to citizen-government collaboration and strengthen democratic processes within the community. He further emphasized that by equipping them with the necessary tools and skills to engage effectively with government processes, we are trying to lay the foundation for a more accountable, inclusive, and transparent governance system.

In the closing ceremony, Mr Naeem Mirza, Executive Director of Aurat Foundation, addressed the participants, stating that this workshop is just the beginning. He emphasized that the real work lies in how participants will take the knowledge gained here and apply it in their respective regions. He also expressed his gratitude to NDI, the trainers, and the participants for their valuable time and input, which has been crucial in improving the training manual.

At the end of the workshop, certificates were presented to the participants in recognition of their active involvement and contributions throughout the sessions. Souvenirs were also presented to the resource persons and guest as tokens of appreciation for their valuable contributions.

On 22nd October a delegation of Aurat Foundation called on MNA DR. Shahida Rehmani, Secretary of the Women Parliamentary Caucus, and discussed various options on tax increases on tobacco and legislative business around new products.

MNA Dr. Rehmani and the staff of WPC briefed the delegation on the legal status and functions of the WPC.

The discussion focused on tax increases on tobacco, amendments in the existing, and proposals on regulating new products. The WPC assured AF of their full support in tobacco control efforts.

 

Aurat Foundation organized a policy dialogue on tobacco control: operational challenges in Islamabad on 22 October 2024. Member of the provincial assembly of Punjab Ms. Tahira Mushtaq, Senior Joint Secretary of Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training. Mr. Sohail Akhtar Malik, Dr Mati ur Rehman, Dean Health Services Academy, Mr. Abdul Nabi Solangi, Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services, Syed Ishtiaq Gilani from Child Rights Movement, Malik Sohail Mehmood, Deputy Director (ICT-PIERA), Mr. Asif Hussain, Higher Education Commission, Mr. Abdul Sattar, Director General Human Rights at Ministry of Human Rights, Dr. Maheen Malik, Regional Director were present.

A group of concerned mothers, students of the health services academy, and the youth group from Sangjani participated. MPA Ms. Tahira Mushtaq while speaking at the event said that we will move a comprehensive legislation at the provincial assembly of Punjab for tobacco control in the province. Moreover, other tobacco products like gutka, bidi, naswaar as well as emerging products e-cigarettes, velo, shall be controlled. Senior Joint Secretary Mr. Sohail Akhtar Malik informed that the sFederal Ministry of Education has instructed all schools both public and private to adhere to the provisions of law prohibiting use and sale of tobacco products in and around the educational institutions. Representative of ICT- Private Education Institutions Regulatory Authority Malik Sohail Mehmood said that all institutions have been notified to enforce a ban on tobacco products within and around their premises. Dr Mati ur Rehman, Dean Health Services Academy informed the participants in detail about the hazards of tobacco use. Mr. Asif Hussain, Higher Education Commission presented in length the policy of Higher Education Commission on tobacco control being implemented in 266 universities in the country. Mr. Abdul Nabi Solangi from Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services analyzed different laws vis a vis tobacco control in Pakistan and the lack of laws therein. Dr. Maheen Malik, Regional Director Asia for Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids (CTFK) told that CTFK was acting globally with the support of Bloomberg for the control of tobacco and emerging products.

Mr. Abdul Sattar, Director General Human Rights at the Ministry of Human Rights emphasized the significance of human rights highlighting how cigarette smoking violates these rights and freedom of expression. He stressed that while we are enforcing agencies and strive to do our best, the responsibility of implementation of laws rests on individuals.

Syed Ishtiaq Gilani from Child Rights Movement pointed out the harmful effects of tobacco use and the related products. Moreover, he emphasized that a total mafia is involved in the advertisement of such products who claim them to be safe and completely harmless. He offered several recommendations including the need to review tobacco control policy, sensitization of policy makers and legislators and ensure timely research and data collection on the issue.

 

Razia Sultana, member of a political activist from Punjab also shared her opinion.

A group of 60 women, representing all four provinces, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, minorities, pollical activists from all mainstream and religious political parties, met here in Islamabad for two days to discuss harmful effects on tobacco and novel nicotine products.

These representative women called Concerned mothers, met with MNAs Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan, Ms. Ghazala Khan, Ms. Mahjabeen Abbasi, Ms. Huma Chughtai and Saher Kamran.

A comprehensive briefing was given to the Concerned Mothers by the officials of Tobacco Control Cell of the Government of Pakistan.

The concerned mothers, whose children and family members are on the risk of smoking, resolved that the taxes on all tobacco products should be increased so that such products could not be in the purchasing power of youth and an incremental decrease in the use of tobacco is achieved.

MNA Ms. Naeema Kishwar Khan said that during the years the parliament and the government promulgated many laws and regulation through SROs on tobacco control in Pakistan especially Prohibition of smoking in public places, ban on cigarette sales to children under 18, and in 500 meter radius of education institutions, Prohibition of a pack of less than 20 sticks, mandatory health warnings on cigarette packs and a price ceiling.’ MNA Naeema Kishwar Khan promised that we, as parliamentarians shall do whatever is needed for tobacco control.

MNA Sahe Kamran said in her closing remarks that as a parliamentarian, previous tenure as Senator, and now member of the National Assembly, I always raise voice at the floor of the house as well as in public arenas like media, social media, and public gatherings for the public interest especially for weaker segments of our society like children, women and minorities. She informed that the provincial government of Sindh banned gutka and Shisha cafés.

MNA Saher said, “I am mindful and working with Aurat Foundation and civil society for stricter control of tobacco, its other products like gutka, cigar, niswar, biri as well as banning novel products injurious to health. I am working with Women Parliamentary Caucus to amend existing laws on tobacco and introducing new laws banning novel nicotine products like vapes.

She continued, “New products are targeting youth in our educational institutions, we need to take measures to address this issue not only by creating awareness but also to make related laws.”

Razia Sultana, a political activist from Punjab said, ”We are deeply concerned that in the national budget of 2024-25, wherein every product was heavily taxed, even the lifesaving drugs and daily use food items were not spared from taxation but only tobacco was spared from any taxation. We demand 26% imposition of tax on all tobacco products. In continuation of our concern and anguishes, we regret the recent decrease in the cigarette prices. A cigarettes manufacturing company has drastically lowered its prices from Rs. 483 to Rs. 283, a move that not only violates existing tobacco control laws but also poses a severe threat to public health, particularly targeting youth and minors. Previously, at the price of Rs. 483, the company paid approximately Rs. 74 in taxes per pack. With the new price of Rs. 283, they are now paying only Rs. 43 in taxes – a reduction of Rs. 32 per pack. This decrease significantly impacts the country’s economy, as it results in a substantial reduction in tax revenue. We demand strict action by the CBR to immediately take action against that company for violation of price mechanism laws and SROs.”

Sanam Naz, a political activist from Sindh opined, “We also demand that no cigarette pack should be less than 20 sticks, as laid out in the law and we demand campaign by the tobacco companies to produce packs of less than 20 sticks, under the guise of export, can undermine country’s longstanding efforts against tobacco control. There is a significant danger that these products will shortly find their way into our local markets, thereby poisoning the health of our youth and lower-income populations even further. We the concerned mothers demand the government to not to accede to any such demand of the vested interests.”

Mumtaz Mughal, Program Director of Aurat Foundation said, ‘We demand that introducing new laws banning novel nicotine products like vapes. New products are targeting youth in our educational institutions, we need to take measures to address this issue not only by creating awareness but also to make related laws.”

The Concerned Mothers collectively vowed, “We resolve to keep on working for advocating with the parliamentarians, local governments, education authorities, civil societies, shopkeepers for protecting children and weaker sections of the society from harmful effects of tobacco and new nicotine products.”

Aurat Foundation gave a Presentation regarding to the Women's Parliamentary Caucus regarding
"Strengthen the Role of Parliamentarians for Reduction of Tobacco Usage in Pakistan"
AF gave the presentation to the members of the WPC at the Third General Assembly Meeting of the WPC on 28th, August 2024 at the Parliament House in Islamabad.



The presentation was presented by Syed Safdar Raza, Mumtaz Mughal, Mehak Fatima Jafry (AF), Dr. Khalil Ahmed (SPARC), and Arooj Rajput (HDF). WPC agreed to work on 4 key areas which are:

New law required to Ban Novel Products Amendments required in the existing federal laws Increase tax on both tobacco and relevant products Increase graphic health warning to 75%

Aurat Foundation successfully organized a National Conference on July 11, 2024, at Serena Hotel Islamabad.

A total of two hundred and thirty-three (233) participants participated in the National Conference. Governor KP, Mr Faisal Karim Kundi, Members of provincial assembly (MPAs, MNAs) and members of US Embassy participated. Member of Law enforcement departments, police officials, media persons, lawyers, academia, students, minorities, transgender and representatives of civil society organizations also participated.

The main Objectives of National Conference was to share best practices and lessons learned from the experiences of Women Peace Architects (WPAs) in fostering sustainable peace, to analyze the impact of Women Peace Architects (WPAs) initiatives on promoting peace and conflict resolution through Community Actions and to explore innovative strategies for enhancing the role of women in peacebuilding efforts.

75 Women Peace Architects (WPAs) from all provinces of Pakistan set up stalls showcasing their project work funded by small grants under SHE-The Peacebuilder Project. Their displays included an array of pamphlets, posters, stickers, documents, photographs of activities, and various souvenirs, providing a comprehensive overview of their initiatives and achievements.

Mr Faisal Karim Kundi, Governor KP, praised the collaborative efforts of the Aurat Foundation, Search for Common Ground, and Kadam Communication in organizing this conference. He said that your commitment to supporting women peacebuilders and fostering a culture of peace is commendable. Continued collaboration among governmental and non-governmental organizations is essential to sustain and expand the impact of such initiatives.
Ms Ghazala Golu, Deputy Speaker Balochistan Assembly emphasized the importance of men’s participation in promoting women’s representation in government. She assured that while the representation of women in Balochistan has been very low in recent years, there are now promising signs of improvement. Ms. Golu highlighted that collaborative efforts between men and women are crucial for achieving gender parity in leadership and decision-making roles. She also stressed the need for societal change to support and encourage women to step into these roles. Additionally, Ms. Golu called for more targeted policies and programs that address the barriers women face in politics, such as lack of access to education, financial resources, and mentorship. She expressed optimism that with these efforts, the future will see a significant increase in women’s representation and participation in Balochistan’s political landscape.

Ms Suraya bibi, Deputy Speaker, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly said that women’s representation is essential in every part and sector of the country. She thanked the WPAs, Aurat Foundation, and Search for Common Ground for their dedicated efforts over the past two years. She highlighted that through various activities, these women have successfully taught the vital lesson of promoting peace in society.

Mr Naveed Anthony, Deputy Speaker, Sindh Assembly proudly announced that Sindh is the first province to elect four women to the Deputy Speakership, marking a significant milestone and honor for the region. He noted that a notification has been issued to this effect, emphasizing the growing stability and prominence of women in society. Mr. Anthony highlighted that the achievements of the WPAs have accomplished in a short span what had not been achieved in the last 75 years, showcasing the transformative power of women’s contributions.

Mr Muhammad Mukram Khan, Director General Cyber Vigilance, PTA reiterated PTA’s dedication to safeguarding the digital wellbeing of young people in Pakistan. He encouraged ongoing dialogue and cooperation among all sectors to enhance cyber vigilance and ensure a positive impact on the lives of the country’s youth.

MNA Sahar Kamran, Ex-Senator also participated in the Conference. Addressing the participants that Aurat Foundation is playing an effective role in bringing forward young women. She said that the youth should be diverted from immoral activities and moved towards skills so that there is peace in the society.

Ms Nilofar Bakhtiar, Chairperson of the National Commission on Status of Women (NCSW), delivered her closing remarks with a powerful and inspiring message. As the Chief Guest for the session, she lauded the Aurat Foundation and Search for Common Ground for their pivotal role in spearheading the initiative. She highlighted the organization’s commitment to advancing women’s rights and their social and economic stability, emphasizing that this initiative was designed to develop the leadership skills of women and empower them to contribute effectively to peacebuilding efforts.

Ms. Nilofer appreciated the Aurat Foundation’s efforts to nurturing a garden, where each woman is a plant that has been carefully tended to ensure growth and flourishing. She noted that women today must navigate the complexities of modern society with precision and resilience, adapting to the evolving demands of the era.

Mr Naeem Ahmed Mirza, Executive Director, Aurat Foundation, expressed his views on the crucial role women can play in establishing peace and order within their communities. He proudly acknowledged the 75 women recognized for their significant contributions to peacebuilding, noting that their hard work and determination have brought about positive change not only in their local areas but across the entire country.

At the end of the ceremony, all Women Peace Architects (WPAs) were awarded for their services. Ms Nilofer Bakhtiar presented awards to WPAs. A group picture was taken at the end.

Ms Mashal Mushtaq and Ms Carol Malaika, member Women Peace Architects from Peshawar successfully conducted Career Counselling session with young girls on joining Law Enforcement Institutes. This session was conducted on June 8th, 2024 at Fort Continental, Peshawar.

Ms Mashal and Ms Carol guided young students on Career Counselling to join law enforcement Institutions. By providing young girls with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to pursue careers in law enforcement. This counseling session aims to empower them to break barriers and contribute to a diverse and effective law enforcement community. The session inspired confidence, foster resilience, and encouraged the next generation of female law enforcement professionals.

Mr. Rizwan, Provincial Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission, graced the session as the Chief Guest, offering valuable insights into the National Commission for Human Rights Act 2012, aimed at the promotion and protection of human rights. He elucidated the key provisions of the Act, emphasizing the pivotal role it plays in safeguarding the rights of individuals. Mr. Rizwan underscored the open-door policy of the NCHR KP office, particularly for female complainants who have experienced any form of violation, ensuring their grievances are heard and addressed promptly.


Moreover, Mr. Rizwan shed light on the existing policies and legislations concerning women’s rights, highlighting the unfortunate lack of awareness among the populace. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about these rights to ensure their effective implementation.


From a political standpoint, Mr. Rizwan acknowledged the relatively limited activity in Pakistan aimed at promoting women in politics. While the government has made strides in the inclusion of women in politics at all levels, he acknowledged the persisting gender discrimination. He informed the audience about the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) secretariat, which is dedicated to receiving complaints from various marginalized groups, including women, persons with disabilities, transgender individuals, minorities, female candidates, female polling staff, and female polling agents.

Ms. Naheed, Assistant Director of Social Welfare, and Mr. Dr. Ateeq Ur Rehman, a social activist, were also invited as guests. Participants from various cultural, religious, and social backgrounds made the session productive and fruitful with the help of Trainer Ayesha Khan (Aurat Foundation Jazba Project Program Officer) Various topics were discussed in detail, followed by group activities and presentations. The honorable guests shared their views on violence and career counseling, offering their support and services for the subject causes.

Certificates were distributed among all participants by the honorable guests. The session concluded with a vote of thanks and refreshments.

Ms Zainab Mehmood, member Women Peace Architect from Haripur successfully conducted One-Day Hockey unity match with slogan “Play for Peace”. This activity was conducted with youth athletes on June 6th, 2024 at Peace College, Haripur campus.

The main purpose of the activity was to provide a platform for young female athletes to collaborate, compete, and showcase the spirit of sportsmanship. Ms Zainab engaged and collaborated with local colleges/high schools and sports clubs to identify potential participants. She also created IEC material and designed few slogans for this activity.

Ms Zainab’s efforts were instrumental in ensuring a diverse and enthusiastic participation from young athletes across the region. The IEC materials she created highlighted the importance of sports in fostering teamwork, discipline, and resilience. The slogans she designed resonated with the spirit of empowerment and unity, encouraging young women to take pride in their athletic abilities and to strive for excellence both on and off the field.
The collaboration with educational institutions and sports clubs not only helped in identifying talented participants but also built a supportive network that could nurture these athlete’ growth and development. Ms. Zainab’s initiative went beyond the competition itself; it aimed at creating a lasting impact by promoting a culture of inclusivity and recognition for female athletes.

Through this activity, many young women were able to showcase their talents, gain confidence, and build lasting relationships with their peers. The event was a celebration of sportsmanship and provided an invaluable opportunity for young female athletes to shine and inspire others in their communities.

The chief guest of the event, Mr Yousaf Ayub Khan, Ex minister CNW/provincial member of Pakistan Climate Change Authority announced the ambitious plans to significantly enhance the sports infrastructure in the region. These plans include the construction of an Olympic-size international level swimming pool for both female and male athletes, with a targeted completion time of 5 to 6 months. Additionally, an indoor national level gymnasium for girls, catering to a variety of sports, will be established in Haripur. Furthermore, a covered area specifically designed for female players will be constructed at Curtas Ground (Committee Ground), providing a safe and sheltered environment for practice and competition. These initiatives aim to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for athletes, encouraging excellence and participation across various sports disciplines.

Ms. Ayesha Batool, Principal GGDC no 2 Haripur (Professor Health and physical education), announced to create a peace building committee in her college and also announced to participate in process of players registration with District Sports Club.

The other guests of the event were

Mr Sohrab Masud, Assistant Superintendent jail
Mr Khalid, Principal peace college
Mr Mehmood Hussain Shah, social activist
Mr Ilyas Fareed, traffic incharge
Ms Fehmida, professor GPGC for women, Haripur.

Ms Maria Qureshi and Ms Yusra Gillani, member Women Peace Architects (WPAs) under the project SHE-THE Peacebuilder conducted a One-Day Training Session with different government/private stakeholders to sensitize the need of People With Disabilities (PWDs). This session was conducted on June 5th, 2024 at The Margala Hotel, Islamabad.

Ms Maria and Ms Yusra themselves facilitated the session. The main purpose was to raise awareness among these stakeholders regarding disability issues and peacebuilding efforts. This activity contributed to creating a more inclusive, tolerant, and peaceful society where individuals with disabilities are valued, respected, and provided with equal opportunities to thrive. The main aim of this training session was also to foster active participation and engagement among diverse stakeholders, including individuals with disabilities, community members, religious leaders, policymakers, and organizations.

The Chief guest, Mr Naeem Ahmad Mirza, Executive Director, Aurat Foundation said that today’s training session is a crucial step towards building a more inclusive society where the needs of people with disabilities are not just acknowledged but actively addressed. It is imperative that we, as stakeholders, commit to creating environments that are accessible and equitable for all. This session has provided us with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change. Mr Mirza appreciated that these discussions have highlighted the critical need for systemic changes to support people with disabilities. I am confident that the insights gained here will lead to significant improvements in accessibility and inclusion.

At the end of the event, Mr Naeem Mirza along with Ms Maria and Ms Yusra distributed certificates among the participants, and took a group picture together.

Ms Yasmin Mughal, Ms Saira Iqbal and Pashmina Khilji, member Women Peace Architects (WPAs) under the project SHE-THE Peacebuilder successfully conducted a One-Day Sensitization session on “Transforming Violent Extremism” using the Common Ground Approach. This session was conducted with the Students from Gender Study and Media Study Department on June 4th, 2024 at University of Balochistan.