ISLAMABAD
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) called for renewed national commitment and concrete action to advance the rights, dignity, and equal opportunities of women and girls across Pakistan.
Chairperson emphasised that while important progress has been made in strengthening protections for women, sustained institutional and societal efforts are required to ensure that these rights translate into real change in the lives of women throughout the country.
Over the past year, NCSW has actively contributed to legislative reform, policy development, and evidence-based advocacy aimed at advancing gender equality.
The Commission has played an important role in supporting initiatives to end child marriage and strengthen legal protections for girls.
The passage of the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Act, followed by legislative progress in Balochistan and Punjab, represents a significant step forward in safeguarding the rights and future of girls.
NCSW urges all provinces, particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to adopt similar legislation and calls for strict and effective implementation of child marriage laws across the country.
The Commission has also led the development of Pakistan’s first National Gender Parity Report, an important national assessment that will soon be launched.
The report provides a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of gender disparities in key sectors including economic participation, governance, education, health, and access to justice. It is intended to guide policy reforms and institutional action toward closing persistent gender gaps in Pakistan.
Throughout the past year, NCSW has continued to engage with federal and provincial institutions, parliamentarians, civil society organisations, and community leaders to promote women’s access to justice, protection from violence, economic empowerment, and meaningful participation in public life.
The Commission remains committed to ensuring that women’s voices and rights remain central to national policymaking and governance. “International Women’s Day is not only a moment to recognise the contributions and resilience of women across Pakistan, but also a call to action,” said Chairperson Ms Azhar.
“We must collectively strengthen the implementation of laws, remove structural barriers, and ensure that every woman and girl can live with dignity, security, and equal opportunity.”The National Commission on the Status of Women reiterates its commitment to working with all stakeholders to advance gender equality and ensure the full protection of women’s rights across Pakistan.
