By: Alamgir
Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (KPCSW), under the leadership of Chairperson Dr. Sumera Shams, has finalized the draft of the Women Empowerment Policy 2026–2030. The policy will be submitted to the provincial cabinet for approval through a summary and is scheduled to be formally launched on February 12, on the occasion of National Women’s Day.
In this regard, a meeting of the Technical Committee formed under KPCSW for the Women Empowerment Policy (2026–30) was held on Wednesday at the Commission’s office in Peshawar. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Sumera Shams.
The meeting was attended by Technical Committee members including Ayesha Bano, Member Local Government Committee; Ikramullah Khan, Board Member KPCSW; Shazia Atta, Secretary Women Commission; Syeda Nudrat from the Social Welfare Department; Zainab Khan, Head of UN Women KP; along with other relevant stakeholders and representatives.
During the meeting, a detailed presentation on the draft Women Empowerment Policy (2026–30) was delivered, followed by extensive discussion. Members shared their views and recommendations on various aspects of the policy, including its objectives, implementation mechanisms, and institutional roles, aimed at strengthening women’s social, economic, and political participation across the province.
The committee was informed that the proposed policy is fully aligned with the Constitution of Pakistan as well as other policies currently enforced at the provincial level. It was emphasized that the implementation of the policy would significantly reduce gender-based discrimination against women of all age groups, facilitate access to justice, and enhance coordination among relevant institutions.
Discussions were also held on safeguarding women’s inheritance rights in line with existing laws. Furthermore, proposals were presented to ensure women’s representation within the provincial cabinet setup, local government bodies, annual budgeting processes, consultative forums, standing committees, and planning mechanisms.
The meeting highlighted that the policy aims to improve women’s access to public services, protect women’s rights, and promote economic empowerment. The short-term, mid-term, and long-term outcomes of the policy are expected to play a pivotal role in improving the overall welfare and empowerment of women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
It was further shared that following approval by the Technical Committee, the policy will be vetted by relevant departments and subsequently presented to the provincial cabinet. Upon approval, it will be officially launched on Women’s Day.
In line with the provincial government’s vision for women empowerment and under the leadership of Dr. Sumera Shams, KPCSW has achieved a significant milestone by finalizing the policy within a short span of three months. The initiative is expected to yield positive outcomes in promoting and protecting women’s rights across the province.
