Sehar Kamran

Sehar Kamran

Member of the National Assembly, PPPP Former Member of the Senate
From the courageous advocacy to the empowerment of grassroots women leaders, your milestones inspire us all.

Dear Aurat Foundation Team,
It is an honour to contribute to the 40th anniversary commemorative book, celebrating Aurat Foundation’s remarkable journey since 1986. Having served as a Senator for six years and now as a Member of the National Assembly, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of your work in advancing women’s human rights, gender justice, and democratic governance in Pakistan. From the courageous advocacy against discriminatory laws to the empowerment of grassroots women leaders, your milestones inspire us all.
The Foundation’s legacy, built by visionaries like Shahla Zia and Nigar Ahmad, reflects resilience and innovation reserving 33% seats for women in local governance, amending the Muslim Family Laws, and enacting protections against violence. These achievements, rooted in the 1983 Women’s Rights Movements, continue to shape an equitable future.

Recently, Aurat Foundation has intensified its drive on tobacco control, addressing a critical public health crisis affecting youth and marginalized communities. I actively participated in policy dialogues, meetings, workshops, and interactive sessions on this subject. The Policy Dialogue on Tax Increase on Emerging Tobacco Products, held on May 29, 2025, where I served as Chief Guest, featured experts calling for steep tax hikes and robust enforcement to combat rising nicotine use. Tobacco claims approximately 164,000 lives annually in Pakistan, costs the economy Rs. 615 billion (about 1.6% of GDP), and sees 1,200 children aged 6-15 starting to smoke daily. Emerging products like vapes and sheesha pose new challenges, with sales to minors persisting. To support these efforts, I introduced the Control of Narcotics Substance Amendment Bill, 2025, on May 13, aiming to curb substance abuse in educational institutions. Aurat Foundation’s ongoing campaigns, including policy dialogues and advocacy for tax increases, exemplify its commitment to public health and social justice. My reflections are of gratitude for this enduring archive, which will motivate future generations. May Aurat Foundation’s legacy of courage and transformation thrive for decades to come.