Islamabad
Inspire Pakistan led the “International Women’s Day” celebrations at the Urban Cohesion Hub, Rawalpindi in collaboration with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Pakistan on 8th March 2022 by highlighting the contributions that the refugee and host community women have made by coming together and learning from one another. The celebration was attended by members from UNHCR, non-profits, government organizations, and civil society organizations. Foreign Dignitaries including the Country Representative of UNHCR Ms Noriko Yoshida along with Mr Kamal Khan of Commissionrate for Afghan Refugees (CAR) Pakistan participated and gave an auspicious start to the event.
The event kicked off with inspiring words from the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, Ms Noriko Yoshida who highlighted the role women have played in society and how women aren’t just helpless victims of climate change, but their empowerment and work has had a transformative impact in the communities.
Qaiser M. Siddiqui, Chief Executive Officer, Inspire Pakistan wished all the participants a happy women’s day through a recorded video message and reminded all of the vision of Quaid-e-Azam, Mohammad Ali Jinnah on how he envisioned equality for women in Pakistan. Mr Siddiqui added by stating, “Inspire Pakistan pledges to stand together with the women of Pakistan in upholding and protecting their rights.”
Women are considered more vulnerable to climate change because of cultural norms and poor allocation of resources, inequitable distribution of roles and power that makes them susceptible to the catastrophe caused by rising global temperatures. A lack of independence and decision-making constrains the ability of women and young girls to make decisions that would help them adapt to the changing climate.
International Women’ Day marked the contribution of women around the globe, that are leading the movement and initiative on climate change adaptation, mitigation, and response, to build a more sustainable future.
The United Nation’s celebration of Women’s Day this year aims to celebrate the brave actions women and young girls have taken around to globe to mitigate climate change and advocate for sustainable development initiatives. The future of the world is daunting but not as bleak if women are empowered to make their decisions , and lead climate action movements that not only champions clean energy but also structures alternative models of community that focuses on sustainability; paving the way for a community that is resilient.
UNHCR Country Representative visited all the stalls especially arranged by women and girls from Afghan and host communities where they displayed their cultural and traditional items. Moreover, there was a painting exhibition where different artwork was displayed by refugee girls considering the IWD theme. Later on, prizes were distributed amongst the top contenders. There were also musicians who gave out terrific musical performances.
Inspire Pakistan thanked the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the people and the government of Pakistan for their support, hospitality and protection provided to the Afghan refugee women in Pakistan.
