PESHAWAR: National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) held a consultation with provincial stakeholders in Peshawar on the preparation of National Report on “Need Analysis for Financing & Strengthening Institutions with Gender Perspective for Empowerment of Women and Girls” that will be presented by the commission in 68th Session of UN-Commission on the Status of Women. The consultation program was arranged with the help and support of consortium partners (UNFPA, UNICEF and UN Women & UNDP). Event was attended by various Government officials KPCSW, SWWED KP, Human Rights institutions, gender experts, representatives from government departments, civil society organizations, NGOs, and media.
Theme of the sixty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women that will take place from the 11th to the 22nd of March 2024 is “achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.”
The subject consultation by NCSW in partnership Consortium members UNWOMEN, UNICEF, UNDP and UNFPA aimed at preparing recommendations for the report to be presented at the 68th session of UN Commission Status of women. The speakers in consultation raised related issues with a focus on economic empowerment of women and eradication of poverty. The participants exchanged the case studies of successful strategies, policies, and programs that have effectively empowered women and advanced gender equality.
Ms. Nilofar Bakhtiar in her welcome remarks said that these pre CSW consultations by NCSW and Consortium partners aim at analyzing existing steps taken by the government, collaboration among government, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations. She added that the commission keeps its recommendations inclusive that’s why a series of pre CSW consultations are in progress. NCSW looks forward for creating inclusive and sustainable solutions for gender-related issues with a focus on economic empowerment and eradication of poverty as that is the core themes for CSW 68. KP is facing a poverty around 49 percent. Also, the commission is considerate of merged of tribal areas and economic uplift for the women in NMDs is the core focus of NCSW She stressed that by adopting a comprehensive and integrated approach, societies can work towards reducing poverty and promoting gender equality simultaneously. It is essential to recognize the interconnectedness of poverty and gender issues and address them through collaborative efforts involving governments, NGOs, communities, and the private sector. The series of consultations across Pakistan it is an opportunity to evaluate the progress and identify persistent challenges hindering the achievement of gender equality to be shared in the report for the 68th session of CSW this year. “Empowering women economically is not just a goal; it’s a powerful tool to eradicate poverty. Let us invest in education, entrepreneurship, and equal opportunities for all women., “she noted.
The Governor KP Haji Ghulam Ali said that women comprise 52 percent of population and it is the responsibility of the state to cater for the need of this huge chunk of population. In the face of adversity, women rise, not just for themselves, but for a collective vision of a nation where every daughter, sister, and mother can work with her male counterparts. One of the foremost challenges is gender inequality, deeply rooted in cultural norms and societal expectations. Change is in the air as many conservative communities accessing the state for educational opportunities. Girls Education is the key to eradication of poverty and economic development of a state. Access to education and economic opportunities remains a significant hurdle despite It is encouraging to see more girls are now enrolled in educational institutes Women’s participation in the workforce has seen a positive shift. From corporate boardrooms to entrepreneurial ventures, Pakistani women are increasingly breaking the glass ceiling and making their mark. Islam also supports and gives full rights to women for economic activities .It is time to look into the real Islam that is meant for all human beings including women .We are there to support the commissions and all initiatives for women on part of state .He suggested that political parties must be taken on board by commission and Civil society and take their commitment on pro women legislation where ever its needed .Civil society and advocacy groups have been instrumental in driving change. Their efforts in raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and providing support of society has created an imbalance in relation to men and women being a part of the nation’s economy. Working towards enhancing the quality of women’s lives not just solely affects theirs, but the many generations to come There is a clear need for initiatives to develop policies and projects to provide them with safe and conducive environment for playing their roles and contribute to overall national economic growth as we empower our women, we empower our nation.
Secretary KPCSW Robeen Haider
Ms. Robeen on behalf of KPCSW highlighted the KPCSW s role in women s access to right to property, and workplace harassment and thanked the Governor NCSW and UN partners for their presence and contributions.
The participants at consultation were engaged in group work and discussion for findings and recommendations. The participants agreed that promoting gender equality to address poverty requires a multifaceted approach that tackles the root causes and empowers both men and women. The set of recommendations included education and Skill Development with Equal Employment Opportunities for all and specially women and girls, Enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and policies in the workplace. Encouragement for businesses to adopt fair hiring practices and provide equal opportunities for career advancement for both genders. Support women entrepreneurs through microfinance programs, providing them with access to capital and resource Implement social protection programs that specifically target women, such as cash transfer programs or subsidized healthcare. Ensure that safety nets consider the unique vulnerabilities and challenges faced by women in overimproved women’s access to quality healthcare services, including maternal care and family planning.
