Ms Saina Ali, member Women Peace Architect for Karachi conducted another successful Sensitization session with women police officers on June 4th, 2024 at DIGP South Zone Office, Karachi.

The main aim of the session was to sensitize women police officers on crucial issues related to their roles and responsibilities. The session sought to enhance their understanding and responsiveness towards peacebuilding efforts, emphasizing the importance of gender sensitivity, effective communication, and community engagement in their duties. She used “Transforming Violent Extremism (TVE)” tools and techniques to guide participants.

Mr Syed Asad Raza ,PSP, DIGP South Zone was the chief guest. He addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for their active participation in today’s gathering. He emphasized the crucial importance of understanding identity, noting that it encompasses the unique qualities and beliefs that define individuals. Mr. Raza underscored that recognizing and celebrating this diversity serves to fortify our communities, fostering unity and strength.


Highlighting the gravity of conflict, Mr. Raza emphasized that it transcends mere disagreement, representing a significant issue that requires resolution to prevent further escalation. He stressed that genuine peace involves more than the absence of conflict; it necessitates the cultivation of an environment characterized by mutual respect and harmony among all members of society.

Mr. Raza stressed the importance of distinguishing between conflict and violence. While conflict may involve differing perspectives and interests, violence, he noted, entails physical harm inflicted upon others. He outlined that effectively addressing extremism requires confronting not only the visible manifestations but also the underlying economic, political, and ideological factors that fuel it, thereby contributing to the creation of a safer and more inclusive world.

Mr. Raza concluded by commending the participants for their engagement, recognizing it as a significant step towards fostering a more understanding and peaceful society. He extended his heartfelt appreciation to each participant for their contributions and commitment to building a better tomorrow.

Ms Saina Ali, member Women Peace Architect from Karachi, under SHE-THE Peacebuilder project successfully conducted a One-Day Training session with poloce officers at DIGP West Zone Office. This session was conducted on June 3rd, 2024 in West Karachi.

Ms Saina Ali with over 12 years of experience in the social development sector, specialize in community engagement, conflict resolution, stakeholder consultations, and gender mainstreaming facilitated the session. The main purpose of this training was to sensitize law enforcement departments with the Common Ground Approach (CGA) and equip them with the "Transforming Violent Extremism (TVE)" tools and techniques. Ms Saina discussed specific challenges and solutions related conflict resolution through Interactive sessions using the TVE tools and techniques.

DIGP Irfan Ali Baloch, PSP was the chief guest. He said that It's been a pleasure to see your engagement with these important topics. Understanding identity helps us appreciate the diversity that makes us unique. Conflict arises from serious disagreements, and addressing its roots is vital for harmony.

Mr Irfan added that Peace is more than just the absence of conflict; it's about creating mutual harmony. Knowing the difference between conflict and violence-where violence involves physical harm-is crucial. Lastly, tackling extremism requires addressing economic inequality, political instability, and ideological factors.

Mr Irfan praised Aurat Foundation for this initiative and Ms Saina for her efforts and said that your commitment to these issues is commendable. Together, we can foster a more understanding and peaceful world.

The police officers praised the session for its comprehensive and engaging approach. They particularly appreciated the practical exercises and the relevance of the tools and techniques presented. The interactive workshops and discussions were highlighted as valuable opportunities for learning and collaboration.

Overall, the feedback indicated a strong commitment from participants to apply the knowledge and strategies gained during the session to promote inclusivity and peaceful coexistence within their communities.

This training session represented a significant step towards building a more inclusive society by sensitizing law enforcement officers to the needs of people with disabilities and equipping them with the tools to address violent extremism effectively.

Ms Moazammah Hasnain, member Women Peace Architect conducted an Awareness and Sensitization Session with Police Officers at Police Lines, Multan. This session was conducted on May 31st, 2024.

Ms Moazammah herself facilitated the session. The aim of the activity was to enhance the police officer’s understanding and responsiveness towards community peacebuilding efforts, particularly focusing on the importance of the active inclusion of women in their field. Ms Moazammah focused on emphasizing the importance of actively including women in their field, recognizing their crucial role in fostering a harmonious and inclusive community. By highlighting the significant contributions women can make, the session sought to challenge existing perceptions and encourage a more gender-inclusive approach within the police force. This initiative not only aimed to improve community relations but also to promote a culture of respect, equality, and collaboration within law enforcement. Through interactive discussions and practical examples, Ms. Moazammah illustrated how the active involvement of women can lead to more effective and compassionate policing, ultimately contributing to stronger, safer communities.

Mr Tahir Mustafa, SP Special Branch, Multan was the chief guest. He emphasized that women are already excelling in various fields with commendable confidence. He advocated for the continuation of such activities, highlighting their potential to further boost women’s self-assurance, enabling them to perform even more confidently in their respective domains. Mr. Mustafa reiterated the importance of respecting women and committed to further enhancing their inclusion and recognition in all spheres of life.

Ms Kiran Fatima, member Women Peace Architect from Karachi, under project SHE-THE Peacebuilder conducted a training workshop on Financial Literacy with a diverse and inclusive group comprising participants from different religions, students, working individuals, both male and female. This training workshop was conducted on May 24th, 2024 at DOS (Daughters of Shelom), Karachi. 

Aurat Foundation conducted A One-Day Co-Creation Workshop for Women Peace Architects (WPAs) of Punjab, KP and ICT at The Hill View Hotel, Islamabad on 29th April, 2024. The main objective of this workshop was to refine the grant concepts by unpacking the aim of the seed grants and how these will contribute to the project’s objectives. To Identify potential for synergies between the initiatives proposed and clarify implementation modalities: contractual requirements, implementation timeline, reporting for the projects proposals that were previously submitted by the WPAs.

Ms Anais Thizy, Project Officer, Regional Office SFCG, Kyrgyzstan and Mr Kumarbek Kainazara, Regional Finance Specialist, SFCG, Kyrgyzstan facilitated the workshop. Ms Mumtaz Mughal, Program Manager, Aurat Foundation, Mr Shahid Rahim, Program Manager, SFCG and Ms Tehreem Tasadduq, M & E, Glow consultants co-facilitated few sessions.

Ms Mumtaz Mughal, Program Manager, Aurat Foundation facilitated the session that focused on refining project concepts by delving into the purpose of seed grants and their alignment with project objectives. She engaged WPAs in discussions aimed at clarifying the intended outcomes and how they would support the broader goals of the project. She provided participants with valuable details about how to brainstorm their project concepts, clarify objectives, and strengthen alignment with project goals.

Ms Anais Thizy, Regional Program Officer, SFCG, Kyrgyzstan facilitated the session "What change are we Seeking". This session commenced with an interactive exercise/presentation aimed at engaging the WPAs in envisioning the impact, result, and activities of their respective projects. The exercise was structured to encourage active participation and reflection on the desired outcomes of their initiatives. During the exercise, each WPA was asked to present the IMPACT, RESULT, and ACTIVITIES of their projects, respectively.

Mr Shahid Rahim, Program Manager, SFCG facilitated the session on "Creating Synergies" through a speed-dating exercise with the aim of facilitating connections, resource sharing, and knowledge exchange among participants. The exercise was designed to foster collaboration and identify areas of common interest or overlap between projects. This speed-dating exercise proved to be an effective strategy for creating synergies and fostering collaboration among WPAs. Through active engagement and dialogue, WPAs identified common ground, shared resources, and laid the groundwork for meaningful partnerships. The session not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also strengthened the sense of community and collective purpose among each other.

Ms Tehreem Tasadduq, M&E, Glow Consultants told participants about the meaning of impacts. She said that impact is basically the tangible results or effects resulting from a project. Looking at how much the project has actually helped or benefitted the people it was meant to serve. In other words, you can also say that weather or not the objectives of the project been achieved and to what extent. The importance of measuring impact is that it gives accountability to your project. Provides you with valuable insights, learning and improvements. It also helps in making informed decisions for resource allocations and made evidence based decisions. It also gives an effectiveness to your project by promoting transparency and trust.

Mr Kumarbek, Regional Finance Specialist, SFCG, Kyrgyzstan explained all details about the "Funding Mechanism". The funding mechanism works in way that before the agreement signing process, preparation is very important. In order to complete these preparation, you should have a proper work plan. Work plan is a detailed plan outlining the tasks, milestones, and timeline for the project or initiative that the funding will support. The beauty of the agreement is basically the deliverables. They are the specific outcomes or products that the funded project is expected to produce within a given timeframe. After creating a work plan and deliverable you need to plan the budget. A breakdown of the financial resources allocated to different aspects of the project, including expenses such as personnel, equipment, and materials. It is very important to keep the invoices of the expenses.

Aurat Foundation successfully conducted a three-day training workshop on “Common Ground Approach (CGA)” for Women Peace Architects (WPAs) of Sindh and Balochistan at Marriott Hotel, Karachi from 22nd – 24th April, 2024. Through the training, WPAs received guidance and strengthen their capacities in peacebuilding and conflict prevention, to reflect on conflicts of their own lives. They were also able to enhance their skills and knowledge regarding counter-violent extremism in “Pakistan’s context”.

Ms Aya Abu Sitteh, Master Trainer, SFCG, Jordan facilitated the sessions in the CGA workshop. Aya is the Country Director, Search for Common Ground, Jordan. She is a Human rights advocate, passionate leader and eager peacebuilder for youth, women and security in the Middle East and North Africa. Expert in devising strategies, strong networking skills and policy advisor in social development. While the regional office staff of SFCG, Ms Anais Thizy, Project Officer, Regional Officer SFCG, Kyrgyzstan and Mr Kumarbek Kainazara, Regional Finance Specialist, SFCG, Kyrgyzstan was also a part of this training.

In the closing ceremony of the three-day training workshop, Mr Shahid Rahim, Program Manager, SFCG said that we are working with Aurat Foundation since 2 years now and our main focus is women empowerment and inclusion of women in decision making. As Aurat Foundation has a lot of expertise and great contributions towards women empowerment so we collaborated and designed a project in which we gathered women from all over Pakistan and created a diverse group of 75 Women Peace Architects (WPAs). We trained these women on Common Ground Approach (CGA), Transforming Violent Extremism (TVE) and Professional Leadership Skills (PLS).

Ms Shahid said that in our society women are most effected but still they are not made part of any decision making or policy making. Several factors contribute to this sidelining of women in policy-making. These include traditional gender roles and stereotypes that limit women’s participation in public and political spheres, as well as structural barriers such as unequal access to education, resources, and decision-making positions.

Ms Mumtaz asked the chief guest to look for spaces present in Sindh Assembly for the inclusion of women in these peace committees. We prepared this group of 75 Women to have the appropriate skill and knowledge to perform well if they are made a part of such committees. They could know their role and how these women can play their role as dividers and connectors and how they can use this Common Ground Approach.

The Chief Guest, Ms Shaheena Sher Ali, Minister for Women Development Department, Sindh thanked Aurat Foundation for making her a part of this event. She said that she attended the first event of Aurat Foundation in 2013 and learned a lot from them. I also belong to Baloch community. The belief within the Baloch community that women cannot venture outside their homes without male accompaniment reflects a deeply entrenched patriarchal mindset. Such beliefs not only restrict women’s freedom of movement but also perpetuate gender inequalities and limit their opportunities for education, employment, and participation in public life. But I broke this stereotype and stepped into politics.

She said that if we want to bring change in our society start from your home because change often begins at home. By fostering a positive and nurturing environment within our families, we can cultivate values of empathy, compassion, and respect that contribute to personal growth and strengthen family bonds.

Ms Shaheena said that Aurat Foundation has always been a great support for us in our journey. My office is always open for any service that is required by Aurat Foundation or these Women Peace Architects. She also said to ensure the inclusion of 33% women in Peace Committees.

Ms Malka Khan, Regional Manager, Aurat Foundation Closed the event with a song related to women’s empowerment

Aurat Foundation organized a Study Circle on Transforming Violent Extremism. The Study Circle has the main objectives to provide a trusting atmosphere where the participants can feel comfortable. Speak about the challenges faced by women in advocating for gender and women peace and security Issues in politics. A total of 34 individuals participated. 

Venue: Marriott Hotel Karachi

Date: January 03, 2024

Meeting with the Law department, Sindh Child Protection Authority and Sindh Human Right Commission to discuss the finalization of the Rules of Business for the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013 on January 03, 2024 at Marriott Hotel Karachi.

---

Venue: Hotel Mehran, Karachi

Date: January 05, 2024

A Dialogue was held to discuss the Feminist Manifesto with the political workers of different political parties on January 05, 2024 at Hotel Mehran, Karachi.

---

Venue: Moven Pick Hotel, Karachi

Date: January 15, 2024

Under Women’s Voice and Leadership – Pakistan AF organized a Seminar on Challenges in the Implementation of Pro Women and Labour Laws – Sindh was held on January 15, 2024 at Moven Pick Hotel, Karachi. Panel Discussions was conducted on Domestic Violence bill, Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013 and Labour Laws. Theatre Performances were also conducted by a local theatre group displaying the issues related to domestic violence and child marriages. Experts on the relevant topics also shared recommendations for the improved mechanisms for the implementations of these laws.

---

Venue: Marriott Hotel, Karachi

Date: January 25, 2024

Legislative Watch Group – AF organized a consultative meeting for sharing the Feminist Manifesto with the leaders and workers of the political parties, media personnel’s, government department and civil society members January 25, 2024 at Marriott Hotel Karachi.

Aurat Foundation collaborated with the Women’s Learning Partnership (WLP) to organize a 3-Day National Training Institute 28-30 December 2023 at Park Lane Hotel, Lahore. This initiative primarily targets women actively involved in advocating for women’s progress and serving as leaders within their communities. In the workshop, participants gained insights into WLP’s training methodology and acquired specific tools and strategies aimed at promoting women’s leadership, political engagement, and human rights.

Around 22 women leaders participated. The training drew participants from various sectors, including staff members of local women’s rights organizations, media professionals, lawyers, academia, political activists, and representatives of local government. Attendees were from the province of the Punjab.

In the end of training, women leaders hold a press conference and presented the charter of demand:

1. Ensure that women rights are a priority area for manifestoes of all political parties.
2. Ensure the effective implementation of women’s quota in political party structures, including decision-making bodies and candidate nominations.
3. Political parties shall mandate comprehensive training programs for women within political parties, covering leadership skills, political strategies, and issue-based advocacy.
4. Both political parties and election commission shall ensure strict anti-harassment policies not only within political parties but also on the digital spaces to create a safe and inclusive environment for women to actively participate in the political process.
5. Launch public awareness campaigns to promote the importance of women’s political participation and challenge stereotypes, fostering a supportive public opinion.
6. Allocate sufficient funds to support women candidates during election campaigns, addressing financial barriers that hinder their active involvement.
7. Ensure transparent, merit-based selection criteria and process for nomination of women on reserved seats.
8. Government shall ensure 33% representation of women in local government.
9. Election Commission of Pakistan shall ensure Implementation of measures to enhance the accessibility of polling stations, taking into consideration the unique needs and challenges faced by women, including those in rural and remote areas.
10. Both political Parties and ECP shall ensure developing and disseminating gender-sensitive voter education programs to inform women about their rights, the importance of voting, and the electoral process.
11. Government shall ensure and implement enhanced security measures around polling stations to ensure the safety of women voters and candidates, especially in areas prone to political violence or where women are barred to vote.
12. Election Commission shall ensure transparent reporting and publication of gender-disaggregated data related to electoral processes, providing insights into women’s participation at every stage.

Women and Youth Needs to Equipped with Knowledge in Multiple Roles of Peace-Building
Dr. Syed Mohsin Naqvi, a Religious Scholar said that creating and promoting fraternity and harmony among various communities could help ensure peace and prosperity in society. He also emphasized that women and youth should be equipped with knowledge in multiple different roles of peace-building through training, enhancing their potential, and utilizing it at their maximum for the improvement of the community. The Consultation was organized on December 22, 2023, at the Marriot Hotel, Karachi. A total of 83 (23 male, 59 female) individuals participated. Apart from this, members of the local government, representatives of political parties, police, and law enforcement agencies, police, health, nursing, education, human and women rights commissions, prominent lawyers, academia, students, media, NGOs, CSOs, Individual experts and think tanks other participated.

Ms. Nuzhat Shirin, Chairperson Sindh Commission on the Status of Women highlighted that during recent times, the role of women in making and shaping peace has been widely acknowledged. She emphasized that implementing these commitments would be a first step toward utilizing all available resources to establish and sustain peace. To promote the peace at grassroots level, there is a need to empower the local governments and women's rights commission. Awareness should increase among society on passed CVE laws and increase the women's participation in leadership positions. It could be possible through joint efforts.

Shahid Rahim, Senior Programme Specialist, SFCG said that we should struggle for the elimination of unjust social and economic relations, including unequal gender relations. The active inclusion of women in prevention and response strategies enables them to play a crucial role in fostering sustainable peace.

Ms Mahnaz Rehman, Resident Director Aurat Foundation said that the exclusion of women from peace processes directly discriminates against half of the population, depriving them of involvement in meaningful political change and the promotion of peace and harmony. She said that women's gender perspective and engagement in the peace process can lead to long-term advances for women's equality.

Ms. Sania Asghar, Member, Women Peace Architects, Karachi said that Inclusion goes beyond advocating for women's participation in formal settings; it also involves acknowledging their impact in various contexts. Women have the potential to build peace in their homes, neighborhoods, communities, workplaces, and society at large.

Ms Mumtaz Mughal, Manager, SHE the Peacebuilder project highlighted She Peacebuilder project activities and shared the volunteer actions of WPAs. She said that building bridges among women's organizations and networks can offer considerable promise. The necessity to protect girls and women against violence, especially gender-based violence. There is a need to actively support women's inclusion and leadership in politics.

The session was moderated by Ms. Malka Khan, Provincial Focal person of SHE the Peacebuilder, Sindh