To scale up debate on activism to end GBV, the Punjab SDGs Unit and HomeNet Pakistan jointly hosted a panel discussion on "Community-centric approaches to ending violence against women, to #LeaveNoOneBehind.
The panel debate aimed to deliberate the root causes of VAW, problems faced by victims of violence at the grassroots level, and suggested measures to ensure their rehabilitation into society. Through this cross-sector dialogue, the Punjab SDGs Unit engaged highly experienced practitioners, policymakers, and experts, who shared commendable insight and actionable policy recommendations on protecting women and girls against GBV in our patriarchal setup. They also deliberated on alleviating the impact of immense psychological pressure and emotional abuse through, focus on legal solutions, awareness on cyber harassment and digital safety, mental well-being of victims of Gender-based violence, and the need for community support groups and an integrated approach ensuring safe spaces for them for sustainable community development at the provincial level.
The notable speakers included Ms. Ashifa Riaz Fatyana, Minister for Women Development Punjab, Ms. Ammara Durrani, Assistant Resident Representative, Development Policy Unit UNDP Pakistan, Ms. Uzma Kardar, Chairperson Standing Committee on Gender Mainstreaming, Punjab, Ms. Fauzia Viqar, Gender Adviser / CEO Rah Center for Management & Development, Ms. Kaneez Fatima, Chairperson Punjab Women Protection Authority, Ms. Nighat Dad, Founder & Executive Director Digital Rights Foundation, and Mr. Asad Muzaffar, SSP Investigation & AIG Gender Punjab.
