Islamabad: Dr. Luay Shabaneh, Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), met with the Federal Minister for Law, Justice, and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, to discuss ongoing and future collaboration focused on human rights and gender equality in Pakistan. Secretary Ministry of Human Rights, Mr. Abdul Khalique Shaikh, also attended the meeting.

According to Press Information Department, both sides acknowledged the long-standing partnership between the Ministry of Human Rights and UNFPA, which has supported initiatives aligned with Pakistan’s constitutional and international commitments. Dr. Shabaneh highlighted ongoing efforts, such as ending child marriage through legal frameworks and community awareness programs. Discussions also covered the coordinated helpline for gender-based violence complaints, emphasizing victim support and referral mechanisms.

The meeting reviewed strategies to address gender-based violence, with UNFPA’s role in policy development, capacity building, and awareness initiatives being noted. The National Strategy for Male Involvement in addressing gender-based violence was discussed, focusing on engaging men and boys as change agents.

The discussion extended to the implementation of Anti-Rape Crisis Cells, aiming to strengthen institutional responses, improve stakeholder coordination, and ensure timely justice and support for survivors. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating closely to advance gender equality and promote a rights-based development approach in Pakistan.