ISLAMABAD: Chairperson of National Commission on the Status of Women Nilofar Bakhtiar, while addressing the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an international civil society-led annual campaign, said that the constitution of Pakistan gives equal opportunity to women.
The capital city of Islamabad has successfully concluded the #KoiJawazNahi 16 Days Campaign, a collaborative initiative by UN Women, generously funded by the Government of Japan. This landmark campaign not only addressed the critical issue of violence against women and children but also marked the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Constitution of Pakistan, reinforcing the commitment to fundamental rights and equality.
The campaign commences on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on 10 December, Human Rights Day, indicating that violence against women is the most pervasive breach of human rights worldwide.
Bakhtiar, in her welcome speech, said, “As we conclude these 16 Days of activism, let’s intertwine the principles of our Constitution with the dynamic spirit of the Trade Fair. Through collective effort and economic exchange, let’s pave the way for a Pakistan where equality flourishes, violence dissipates, and prosperity blossoms for every citizen of Pakistan.”
She said, “It was a dream to conduct this trade fair for women from all across the country but it is happening today.”
While addressing the audience, Sharmeela Rassool, the country representative of UN Women Pakistan, stated “Our #KoiJawazNahi campaign stands shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan’s Constitution, commemorating 50 years of justice and equality. Embracing ‘No Excuse’ and strategic investments in women and girls, we illuminate the constitutional framework safeguarding every citizen’s rights. Together, we sculpt a nation where excuses vanish, and economic empowerment interconnects seamlessly with equal rights for all.”
She said, that the women of Pakistan are hardworking and resilient. Their participation in every field is their right. She further added that women have equal rights over everything this land has.
In the keynote speech Khalil George, Federal Minister for Human Rights said, “No Excuse is more than a rule — it’s our guiding principle. Our vision extends beyond policies; it’s about weaving human rights into our daily fabric. By collectively safeguarding the dignity and rights of every citizen, we emphasize the significance of the ongoing 16 Days theme that is to invest in the women and girls.”
The #KoiJawazNahi campaign was launched at Mohenjo-Daro followed by Quetta, Peshawar and now culminating in Islamabad. The primary concept behind this initiative involves illuminating historical structures in these cities with orange, accompanied by street theatre performance. Concurrently, the campaign actively promotes and advocates for this year’s theme, “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls,” aiming to reach the masses.
The campaign coincided with the 50th Anniversary of the Constitution of Pakistan, a milestone that underlines the nation’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and human dignity. By integrating this celebration into the campaign, organizers sought to emphasize the constitutional framework that supports the rights of every citizen, regardless of gender or age.
In addition, the campaign collaborated with a Trade Fair, creating a platform where businesses, organizations, and the public could come together to exchange ideas, showcase products, and strengthen networks. This intersection of the campaign with the Trade Fair allowed for a dynamic exchange of perspectives and solutions, fostering a sense of community engagement and shared responsibility.
The global theme of this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, which runs from 25 November to 10 December 2023, is “Unite! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2023