Islamabad, The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), in collaboration with UNHCR, concluded its National Conference focusing on securing Housing, Land, and Property (HLP) Rights for women and vulnerable groups in Pakistan. The three-day event, which included training sessions and a dialogue with Pakistan’s political leadership, emphasized the need for legal assistance, information, and communication mechanisms to support flood-affected persons in protecting their HLP rights.

According to United Nations Human Settlements Programme, the conference brought together government representatives, the United Nations, foreign dignitaries, international NGOs, and academic experts. The final day featured a Dialogue with the Political Leadership of Pakistan, in partnership with the SDGs Academy. Panelists included Mr. Khalil George, Federal Minister for Human Rights, Mr. Justice Dr. Syed Muhammad Anwer of the Federal Shariat Court, Ms. Samar Haroon Bilour, and others.

Mr. Zahid Nasim Khattak, HLP Expert at UN-Habitat, opened the dialogue with an emphasis on advocating for women’s housing, land, and property rights, with the aim of including these issues in party manifestos for upcoming elections. Mr. Khalil George highlighted the challenges faced by women in securing their rights to housing, land, and property, calling for policies that ensure equal rights and opportunities.

Justice Dr. Syed Muhammad Anwer addressed cultural challenges in property disputes, while Ms. Samar Haroon Bilour and Ms. Fozia Arshad discussed the necessity of making women’s presence visible in the justice system and the need for societal reforms. Dr. Rahim from the Legal Aid and Justice Authority underscored the urgency of campaigns focused on land ownership and tenure security for women and vulnerable groups.

Mr. Ammar Jaffri, Chairman of the SDGs Academy, stressed the importance of economic stability and education in empowering women and ensuring decent work. His statement highlighted the critical role of creating employment opportunities that contribute to economic progress.

The session also addressed the marginalization of youth, with Jawed Ali Khan emphasizing the National Conference’s role in empowering younger generations through engagement and meaningful initiatives.

The conference marked a significant step in addressing the rights and needs of women and vulnerable groups in Pakistan, fostering a collaborative approach to ensure justice, equality, and sustainable development.