The US will launch a new $40 million 'Gender Equity Grants Program' in Pakistan to advance women's human rights and support Government of Pakistan's policies against gender inequities. "The US and Pakistan are focused on empowering women and advancing women's rights - an issue of great importance for both countries," Ambassador Anne Patterson said here on Monday.
"Women and girls need access to education, full participation in political, economic and civic life, and access to justice to ensure future stability and prosperity of Pakistan," she said. She added that the US would work with the 'Aurat Foundation', in partnership with 'Asia Foundation', to provide 400 to 500 grants to local organisations.
The grants will range in size from $25,000 to $100,000. The grantees will include non-governmental organisations (NGOs), policy think tanks, academic research and training institutions, professional and business associations, media, as well as relevant government or quasi-government entities that address women's equality and empowerment challenges. The grants will be used to expand women's access to justice and human rights and strengthen the capacity of organisations in Pakistan that advocate for gender equity, women's empowerment and the elimination of gender-based violence.