Islamabad
\nThe Embassy of Sweden, in collaboration with UN Women Pakistan, hosted an event at the Swedish Ambassador\u2019s residence to recognize Pakistan\u2019s Gender Empowerment Champions. The occasion celebrated the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations dedicated to eradicating gender-based violence, promoting women\u2019s empowerment, and advancing gender equality in the country.
\nThe event was a key part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that emphasizes the urgent need to eliminate violence against women and girls. With the theme #KoiJawaazNahi (#NoExcuse), the evening underscored a shared commitment to building a gender-equal society.
\nThe program began with a warm welcome from the Ambassador of Sweden, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Sweden and Pakistan in championing gender equality.
\nSwedish Ambassador Alexandra Berg von Linde stated, \u201cSweden has a long-standing commitment on working for gender equality and against gender-based violence \u2013 at home and globally. Combatting sexual and gender-based violence is not only a women\u2019s issue. It is a joint effort where all parts of society need to engage.
\nTogether, we can ensure that women and girls can live free from fear and violence and are given the opportunity to reach their full potential.\u201d
\nJamshed Kazi, UN Women Pakistan Country Representative designate, also addressed the gathering, stressing the significance of joint action. He said, \u201cThe progress we seek in eliminating gender-based violence and achieving gender equality requires the unwavering commitment of every individual, organization, and institution. Events like these remind us of the power of collaboration and the impact of our combined efforts.\u201d He further added, \u201cToday, we honor the champions who have made it their mission to advance women\u2019s rights and create safe, equitable spaces for all. Their unwavering dedication inspires us to continue working towards a society free of gender-based violence.\u201d
\nThe evening featured a screening of the Theatre on Wheels campaign video, showcasing of UN Women\u2019s Rolling Resistance initiative. This innovative mobile theatre project has journeyed across Pakistan, engaging communities in dialogue and raising awareness about the urgent need to address gender-based violence.
\nA key highlight of the event was the award ceremony, which celebrated gender champions who have significantly contributed to advancing women\u2019s rights and empowerment in Pakistan. The honorees, representing various sectors such as civil society and policymaking, embodied the spirit of International Women\u2019s Day (IWD) pledges.
\nThe program concluded with remarks by Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environment Coordination, who reaffirmed Pakistan\u2019s commitment to gender equality. She stated, \u201cWe recognize the critical contributions of these gender champions in shaping a brighter future for Pakistan. Their work is a testament to what we can achieve when we unite for a common cause.\u201d
\nThe evening ended with a symbolic candle and air lantern lighting ceremony, representing hope, resilience, and a collective resolve to end violence against women.
\nAttendees also participated in a photo session, capturing the unity and determination of the movement.
\nThe event highlighted the strength of partnerships and the importance of celebrating those who work tirelessly for women\u2019s empowerment. Together, UN Women and the Embassy of Sweden remain committed to amplifying the voices of change-makers, fostering a future where every woman and girl can thrive in safety, equality, and dignity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Islamabad The Embassy of Sweden, in collaboration with UN Women Pakistan, hosted an event at the Swedish Ambassador\u2019s residence to recognize Pakistan\u2019s Gender Empowerment Champions. The occasion celebrated the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations dedicated to eradicating gender-based violence, promoting women\u2019s empowerment, and advancing gender equality in the country. The event was a key […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":448308,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-448365","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-national"},"yoast_head":"\n