Gender Violence Remains Major Challenge in Pakistan: UNFPA
News Desk
Islamabad: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has urged stronger efforts to protect women’s rights and ensure access to health, justice and opportunities as Pakistan marks International Women’s Day 2026.
In a statement, Dr Luay Shabaneh, UNFPA Representative in Pakistan, said this year’s theme, “Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls,” highlights the need to invest in women’s health, education and empowerment to strengthen families and communities.
He noted that women and girls in Pakistan and across the wider region continue to face major challenges, including the impacts of conflict, displacement and insecurity.
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Limited access to health services, justice and education, along with gender-based violence and harmful practices, remain key barriers to their safety and well-being.
Dr. Shabaneh said that in Pakistan one in three women experiences gender-based violence, while many survivors remain silent due to social stigma and systemic obstacles in accessing justice.
He stressed that effective protection requires survivor-centred institutions and stronger measures to address emerging threats such as technology-facilitated violence.
Highlighting the role of women in national development, he said women across Pakistan are making significant contributions as health workers, teachers, entrepreneurs and community leaders, helping drive social and economic progress.
The UNFPA representative reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working with the Government of Pakistan, civil society and communities to ensure women and girls can exercise their rights, access essential services and live free from violence.
He called for greater investment in women’s empowerment and equal access to health care, justice and opportunities, emphasizing that advancing women’s rights is essential for sustainable development and social progress.
