United Nations in Pakistan

Pakistan affirmed its commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by adopting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as its own national development agenda through a unanimous National Assembly Resolution in 2016. Since then, the country has made considerable progress by mainstreaming these goals in national policies and strategies and developing an institutional framework for SDGs implementation in Pakistan. SDG support units have been established at federal and provincial levels with the planning institutions (Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives and Provincial Planning and Development Departments) to guide SDGs implementation and monitoring it progress. In 2018, the Government designed and approved a National SDGs Framework that envisages a national vision to prioritize and localize SDGs. Localized provincial SDG Frameworks are being formulated. The focus of the government is on mainstreaming SDGs in planning processes, ensuring strong monitoring and reporting on SDGs, ensuring public financial allocations are aligned to SDGs and alternate financing modalities are being explored, and to benefit from use of technology to accelerate progress towards SDGs.

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24 November 2020

Assisting Impoverished Marginalized Communities in Floods Ravaged Rural Sindh

It’s perturbing to see hundreds of women and children lining up to a water purification tanker with buckets and utensils to fetch clean drinking water for their families in Umerkot, Sindh. These families are waiting patiently for their circumstances to change as they battle all sorts of difficulties in accessing nutritious food, sanitation facilities, and even shelter. They have been left homeless by the unprecedented flooding in the province. With the Pakistan government already grappling with the COVID-19 crisis, the Sindh flooding brought to fore even more challenges to act swiftly to support vulnerable households and strengthen their resilience. Situation in Rural Sindh The heavy rains in the monsoon season (about 3 times hugher than average) contributed to heart wrenching agony for the already marginalized groups in rural Sindh affecting more than 2.4 million people. The unofficial count may be more than 3 million. Gruesome scenes unfolded as whole families who managed to survive the floods were forced to leave their drowning possessions and find shelter on the side of the narrow broken roads- in the open air. There was little or no access to clean drinking water, food items, hygiene products, or basic facilities like toilets. The flooding not only left the populations barehanded, it also destroyed the major source of livelihoods for the next six months, their livestock and the cotton crop, just as it was ready for harvest, plunging them deeper into poverty. While the media focus has mainly been on mainland Karachi and the flooding in relatively better off localities, the vulnerable minority communities in the rural south have borne the brunt of this calamity. South Eastern Sindh already has the lowest development indicators in Pakistan, at par with Balochistan and the newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The floods happened during the COVID 19 pandemic and just as the cotton crop was to be harvested, which takes place twice a year. Cotton growing is an arrangement between landowners who provide the land in return for a tiny share of the harvest; smallholder farming families borrow finances to purchase seeds and fertiliser. The women from these families are the main harvesters, therefore they have been particularly affected by this shock. Men who tend to work as daily labourers in construction have been seeing their livelihoods significantly impacted by the COVID pandemic and the imposed public health restrictions (lockdowns, halt in construction, etc). The men, women, elderly and children who managed to survive the floods have been sleeping under the open sky on the roads in makeshift shelters made of thin plastic tents forced to relocate every few days. Their homes, traditionally made of mud and thatched straw, have collapsed or have been severely damaged forcing them to stay on the streets, in the open, surrounded by flooded fields, without access to clean drinking water, with no toilet facilities and vulnerable to vector-borne diseases and other infections. Most people have lost a large part of their livestock and they are struggling to provide fodder for those animals that managed to survive.Chronic malnutrition and stunting is very visible. All the conditions are in place for high morbidity and an increase in mortality. Response to the crisis The United Nations in Pakistan has been supporting every effort of the Government in reaching the vulnerable populations that include ailing babies in urgent need of vaccination and life-savings medicines, at-risk populations to COVID-19 and other diseases like diarrhea, malaria and dengue. While the government has been responding since the onset of the floods, the scale of the needs dwarfs the available resources. PDMA and NDMA assistance has been in the form of shelter with provision of tents- the most affected people cite shelter as their priority, along with food, water and mosquito nets. As the UN Provincial Programme Team organised a Rapid Needs Assessment for 9 districts, WFP has distributed food rations for thousands of families; UNICEF and WHO have provided millions of water purifying tablets; WHO has provided bednets and medical supplies. The Humanitarian/Resident Coordinator has released the remaining USD 2.5 million of the Pakistan Humanitarian Pooled Fund. The additional USD 3 million from Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is being directed to strengthen the assistance efforts for food availability, empowering communities by distributing cash, water and sanitation facilities, as well as critical health interventions focusing on women and children.. Building back better While there has been a provision of aid and support, both from the government, the UN and partners, the challenges remain colossal and enormous efforts are still needed to help an already vulnerable population. More needs to be done to ensure better risk management and ensuring that communities are better prepared and more resilient to future shocks. The road is long for recovery and rehabilitation, yet immediate action is necessary to prevent loss of life. The humanitarian community is currently working on a concerted Humanitarian Response Plan for 2021 which will be augmenting the Government’s support to the vulnerable population while calling on other partners to ensure better mitigation of future shocks, provide more funding channeled to restore and repair infrastructure. The UN in Pakistan is strongly committed to supporting the NDMA, the PDMA and other government authorities at Federal and Provincial levels to quantify the situation, raise awareness and support the response. The UN country team will continue to support immediate lifesaving activities focusing on food insecurity and health for vulnerable communities with a focus on women, minorities and the disabled.

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18 June 2020

Pakistan: Further desert locust damage forecast in coming agricultural seasons

The Government of Pakistan’s preliminary estimate of monetary losses due to desert locusts over the two coming agricultural seasons in 2020 and 2021 may range from US$3.4 billion to $10.21 billion. Locust damage has significantly affected many farmers already, with further significant locust damage forecast at the end of summer. In late January, the Government of Pakistan declared the desert locust a national emergency and set up the National Action Plan for Desert Locust Control and Surveillance and a high-level National Locust Control Centre. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is providing technical advice and procurement support to the Government for locust surveillance and control activities, including locust threat forecasts and control operation strategies. FAO and the World Food Programme and partners, in coordination with the Government, will access needs in the worst-impacted districts, which have also experienced multiple shocks over the past 18 months, including drought, flash flooding, a cold wave and COVID-19. The Government of Pakistan needs $372 million over the coming three years in additional funding to survey, control and recover from the locust damage. FAO launched the Desert Locust Upsurge Global Response Plan 2020, which includes $12.5 million for Pakistan for crisis response, of which only $1.9 million has been funded. More than 3 million people in Pakistan are facing severe acute food insecurity, with the situation particularly precarious in Balochistan. It is estimated that approximately 34,000 households will need of emergency livelihood and food-security assistance due to crop losses. Many more people may be indirectly affected by crop losses leading to price rises in key commodities.

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16 June 2020

A Coordinated Response to Coronavirus

On Wednesday, 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized the coronavirus (COVID-19) viral disease a pandemic, but it is a pandemic that can be controlled. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who heads the UN agency, said, in his statement, “Let me be clear: describing this as a pandemic does not mean that countries should give up.” The UN Secretary-General urged all countries to take a comprehensive approach tailored to their circumstances – with containment as the central pillar. COVID-19 is affecting thousands of people, impacting countries’ health systems and having widespread social and economic effects. The UN entities working on development, the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, are supporting countries in their preparedness and response plans. This page convenes sources of information and guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) regarding the current outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). WHO is working closely with global experts, governments and partners to track the spread and to provide guidance to countries and individuals on measures to protect health and prevent the spread of this outbreak. To stay up to date with the latest information, please visit: United Nations Covid-19 Response: https://www.un.org/coronavirus World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 Latest news on the United Nations’ response: https://news.un.org/en/events/un-news-coverage-coronavirus-outbreak WHO guidance for countries: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/technical Coronavirus (COVID-19) Situation: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/685d0ace521648f8a5beeeee1b9125cd

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30 May 2021

Pakistan ramps up Protected Areas

From the Himalayas in the north to the deserts of Balochistan in the west, to the mangroves of Sindh in the south, Pakistan’snatural diversity is spellbinding, but it is also under threat. In 2018, only 12 per cent of the country was classed as an environmentally protected area. According to Bloomberg, it was one of the six countries in the world most at risk from climate change. The country had one of the lowest forest covers in the region, with only 5 per cent cover. This was compared to a global average of 31 per cent. This put the country at increased risk from environmental dangers such as flooding, melting glaciers and droughts. However, change is underway. In 2020, Pakistan’s government launched the ‘Protected Area Initiative’ which aims to increase protected areas such as national parks, wetlands and wildlife reserves to 15 per cent of the country’s total area by 2023. In the last two years, protected area coverage has already increased to 13.9 per cent and further progress looks assured. Pakistan is following a global trend, according to the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) flagship report Protected Planet. Since 2010, 21 million km2of protected and conserved areas, or 42 per cent of the global total, has been added. “Protected areas offer a range of environmental benefits – they safeguard biodiversity by protecting plant and animal habitats; protect against climate change by building resilience to natural disasters and providing carbon storage, and can help maintain food and water security,” said Susan Gardner, Director of UNEP’s Ecosystems division. “Their positive impact also extends to economies as protected areas can drive eco-tourism and create green jobs in developing countries.” Sustainable Protected Areas While the growth of protected areas is a welcome development, as the Pakistan government is aware, in order for them to be effective, the areas must be managed and controlled. While globally the target of 17 per cent of land protection has been met (Pakistan is behind the global average), less than 8 per cent, against a target of 10 per cent, of coastal and marine areas have been conserved. Pakistan’s national parks date back to 1972 with the creation of Lal Suhanra, one of South Asia’s largest. Lal Suhanara is now one of Pakistan’s 31 parks which include desert, mountains, wetlands and coastal ecosystems. They are home to a wide array of species including the elusive and endangered snow leopard. However, many had fallen into disrepair and were parks and protected areas only in name. Part of the Protected Area Initiative is to ensure that these valuable environmental areas are operating and functional. “It is key for Pakistan to not only increase the protected areas but to ensure that all areas that are protected are more than just paper parks. By this we mean they are fully functioning with community buy-in and staff to operate and protect them,” said Dr. Raja Omer, the Deputy Inspector General (Forests) in Pakistan. In order to do this Pakistan is adding 7000 jobs to manage and work in the parks, a key boost after job losses due to COVID-19. UNEP’s Protected Planet Report 2020 finds that in order to be fully effective, jobs in protected areas must draw from and benefit the local communities and fully embrace women at all levels of planning and implementation. “These jobs will ensure community buy-in and agency for the protected areas,” said Dr. Omer. As Pakistan prepares to hold World Environment Day on June 5, in partnership with UNEP, the country continues to make positive progress. Last year Prime Minister Khan announced the creation of nine new National Parks and the rehabilitation of a further six. Pakistan aims to have at least seven of its national parks registered under the IUCN 'Green List of Protected Areas,' the gold standard for conservation. “We have made good progress and we are confident we will meet our targets,” said Dr. Omer. Story via UNEP

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19 May 2021

Pakistan restores mangroves for economy and ecosystem benefits

Tahir Qureshi had many nicknames. Father of the Mangroves. Mangrove Man. The mangrove hero of Pakistan. All reflect a life dedicated to the conservation and restoration of Pakistan’s mangroves. As Pakistan prepares to host World Environment Day on June 5, ecosystem restoration, which includes critical ecosystems like mangrove forests, will be the focus. Mr Quershi, who sadly passed away in December 2020, played a key role in the development of mangrove restoration in Pakistan and will be fondly remembered at the event. “He was a magnificent man. He understood the importance of mangroves in environmental conservation, he dedicated his life to them” said Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, the country representative of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) partner, “He literally planted millions of mangroves.” Mangroves are also a central part of the Pakistan government’s ambitious ‘Ten Billion Tree Tsunami’ drive. Led by Prime Minister Imran Khan and supported by UNEP, Pakistan has committed to planting 10 billion trees by 2023. Millions, if not billions, of these trees will be mangroves. By the end of June, this year one billion trees will have already been planted. Ecosystem and economic benefits Mangroves are one of the most productive and diverse ecosystems on the planet, without which, 39 per cent more people would be flooded annually. The IUCN estimates that mangroves provide exceptional carbon storage - three to five times that of tropical forests – and support livelihoods for over 120 million people globally. They are also home to more than 3,000 fish species are found in their ecosystem. “Mangroves are an important tool in the fight against climate change. They reduce carbon in the atmosphere and they also make financial sense. Restoring mangroves is five times more cost effective than building ‘grey infrastructure’ such as flood walls, which also don’t help with climate change,” said Makkio Yashiro, regional ecosystems coordinator for UNEP. But mangroves are under threat. Climate change, logging, agriculture, aquaculture, pollution and coastal development are all eroding their habitats. UNEP and partners found that over 67% of mangroves have been lost or degraded to date. Restoring a critical ecosystem Restoring mangroves helps support not only nature but also, economies. A hectare of mangroves is estimated to be worth between $33,000 and $57,000 per year. UNEP studies find that every dollar invested in mangrove restoration there is a benefit of four dollars. Simply put they are one of the most efficient, cost effective Nature-based Solutions (NbS). In Pakistan, as well as the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami, organisations such as the IUCN have instigated a number of mangrove restoration projects. The IUCN has worked on projects including one with the Pakistani Navy to plant seven million mangrove plants and also public-private enterprises with Engro Elengy Terminal Private Limited (EETPL) in the Port Qasim area of Karachi. As we enter the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, which will run from 2021 to 2030 and aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide, mangroves have a key role to play in its success. Story via UNEP

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10 December 2020

UNHCR’s skills project empowered refugee woman to ‎earn at home amid coronavirus outbreak

QUETTA, 08 April 2020 – Saleema Habibullah, an Afghan refugee, has faced enormous struggles in her lifetime. Despite the tragic losses that she experienced, she leads a life free from fear and full of hope for the future, even in the most difficult of times. “I was only twenty when all the men in my family where killed in a bombing incident in Quetta,” Saleema lamented. She described how her paternal uncle was so heart-broken that he died from a heart attack. At the time, she fought for her family – a paralyzed aunt and cousin, whom were her only remaining relatives – by taking a bold step to leave her home and seek opportunities. Thanks to UNHCR’s Safe from the Start (SFS) programme, she learned new skills, such as embroidery, tailoring and kilim-making, and applies them daily. The new skills enabled Saleema to become a master trainer at UNHCR’s programme being run by its partner. She has also established a centre at her house to provide skills to girls and run a small business. Saleema earns from the job and home-based business. “Even at this challenging time, when the coronavirus outbreak has affected the country, I’m able to earn a decent living while staying at home,” she said. Generously funded by the United States of America in 2019, the SFS is a livelihoods, hygiene and sexual violence awareness-raising project. Its aim is the economic empowerment of vulnerable women in the Afghan refugee community in Quetta. Since the start of the programme in 2016, SFS trained 740 beneficiaries in marketable skills such as kilim and carpet weaving, tailoring, hand embroidery, machine embroidery as well as computer and English language courses (for literate beneficiaries). All trainees participate in numeracy, literacy and health classes as well. A nursery is also available for young children accompanying their mothers during the day. Most of the beneficiaries are not only skilled artisans but aspiring female agents of change. Originally from Kunduz in northern Afghanistan, Saleema could not continue her studies beyond primary school due to poverty. However, her life took a turn for the better when she got the opportunity to become a trainer with SFS. Today, she’s the sole bread winner in her family, paying off all of the heavy debt that they accumulated over time. At first, her community didn’t respond well to her decision to pursue skills training. In fact, they didn’t even approve of a girl leaving the home, but Saleema stood firm against the frowning faces and unfriendly gestures. She kept working hard, learning new skills. “Someday, I look forward to becoming a successful businesswoman,” mused Saleema. She says that women should be brave, lead prosperous lives and pursue their dreams. By Humera Karim, UNHCR, Quetta, Pakistan

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09 December 2020

Social inclusion of vulnerable transgenders in times of COVID-19‎

Continuing with its commitment to ‘Leave No One Behind’, UNDP in Pakistan, with UNFPA’s support, conducted a rapid preliminary socio-economic assessment to gauge the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on transgender persons living in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This initiative is the first outcome of the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) and UNDP Human Rights Taskforce on COVID-19 for collaboration on efforts through a human rights lens. The assessment was conducted with representative sampling of 75 transgender persons (50 individuals in Rawalpindi and 25 in Islamabad), through transgender focal points of Islamabad and Rawalpindi— who are also members of the National Implementation Committee of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018. The Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) was on board to ensure ownership from the government. All geographical areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi were a part of the assessment while the assessment itself was disaggregated along multiple categories including, but not limited to, key-informants’: age, disability if any, health status, pre-COVID19 employment/income generation capacity, residence, and any experience of Gender Based Violence (GBV)). The sample-size was loosely based on Census 2017-18 findings[1] and in consultation with the trans-community, measuring at 50 key informants from Rawalpindi and 25 key informants from Islamabad-ICT. The findings of the assessmnet reveal serious socio-economic impact of the already marginalised communities of trangender persons; with limited mobility due to COVID-19, their earnings have declined considerably and they are facing issues of shelter, food and access to mandatory hygiene products such as masks, gloves and sanitizers. National Consultation in 2018 on Political inclusion and Electoral participation of transgender community in Pakistan. © UNDP Pakistan/Shuja Hakim The first assessment had the following findings and recommendations: ´ Trans-persons in the twin-cities have been gravely, disproportionately affected by socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. ´ Measures to address the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic should consider the particular vulnerabilities of the trans-people, including older persons, those living with disabilities, compromised immune systems and the homeless, and ensure that trans-people are fully covered by relief to recovery packages and not rendered invisible or unheard at any stage. ´ All development partners, including decision-makers, must speak out against stigmatization and discrimination directed at the trans-people in the context of the pandemic. ´ Shelters, support services, and other measures to address gender-based violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and must take urgent steps to include the trans-population. ´ Measures restricting movement should provide protection for transgender and gender non-conforming persons. Law enforcement officials should be instructed and trained not to discriminate against this segment of the population. The immediate needs identified through the assessment are: The initial findings pointed out the challenges faced by the transgender community which includes: ´ Stigma and discrimination makes transgender people reluctant to disclose their health and socioeconomic status, and get help. ´ Transgender persons continue to experience discrimination from service providers and staff across the social protection and health care settings and social security safety nets – this leaves them poorer and more vulnerable in the face of COVID-19 pandemic. ´ Existing socio-economic marginalization and health conditions mean more of trans-persons live in a state of invisible multi-dimensional vulnerability and compromised health. ´ Transgender and non-binary persons living with hostile families under the current lockdown have to deal with stress and trauma, especially those who have recently come out as trans-persons, those who have recently undergone sex reassignment surgery or are taking hormones. ´ Most trans-persons are either living in temporary residences with other transgender persons in cramped-unsafe conditions or alone in locations other than their places of origin. ´ Most trans-community members are semi or poorly educated, therefore there are obvious and serious gaps in understanding written information and precautionary guidelines with regards to COVID-19. A community-based awareness mechanism should be introduced to educate them on COVID-19 prevention and response. This should be clubbed with the basic training on preparing cost-effective masks, disposing of masks and gloves, maintaining physical distance and keeping themselves safe in their personal spaces. ´ A group from this community has reported their unmet long-term medication needs which have been disrupted due to closure of OPDs in government hospitals. This requires urgent re-prioritisation of health services for those in need of chronic medical care. The majority of trans-people have reported either none or limited funds available at their disposal to purchase basic necessities of life. Considering the uncertainty about ending the Corona Virus pandemic there is a dire need to look for alternative livelihood options for trans-people to enable them to earn their living. MoHR with the support of UNDP in Pakistan and UNFPA Pakistan distributed Eid Relief Packages for COVID-19 affected transgender persons. © UNDP Pakistan/Shuja Hakim In light of the assessment findings, UNDP with the support of UNFPA and in collaboration with Ministry of Human Rights will distribute assistance packages to the most vulnerable transgender persons living in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. UNDP and MoHR have been collaborating for the past two years for effective implementation of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018. This is possible by social inclusion of transgender persons through capacity building, institutional and policy support. UNDP Pakistan is also supporting the establishment of the first ever protection centre for vulnerable transgender persons living in the twin cities with the support of UNFPA. Discussions are currently underway on the structure and setup of the centre with MoHR and UNFPA.

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07 December 2020

Empowering female police trainees and ‎officers of Sindh and Motorway Police ‎

Madiha Anjum is working as a staff officer in the morning at National Highways and Motorway Police (NH&MP) and taking classes at the university in the evening. Growing up she never imagined that she would be able to join a profession like the Police while living in a social setup that didn’t give her the option to choose a career path on her own. “My brothers used to say that you are only allowed to be a teacher or do the kind of job that can be done from home. I always knew I was not meant for teaching,” she says.
Swimming against the tide, many female officers like Anjum are fighting battles, social and physical, to assimilate into a workforce that is as demanding as it is rewarding. Yet women are joining NH&MP at an increasing rate.
“The presence of female staff in Motorways Police is very important, especially as the number of female drivers has increased.” says Mehboob Aslam, DIG NH&MP, and Commandant of Training College NH&MP Sheikhupura.
As part of the force, female officers of the Motorways Police need proper training. Anjum who is originally from Faisalabad resides at the hostel premises of the college at Sheikhupura along with 50 other young trainees who come from all over Pakistan. They stay in hostels for months – hostels that are often housed in old buildings with leaking ceilings, badly maintained bathrooms with sewage problems, poor ventilation, cramped rooms without emergency exits which pose health and safety hazards. These young women have chosen this difficult profession, but the process becomes more difficult when they do not even get to have basic facilities in their hostels.
“I didn’t know anyone when I came to this place, but I am used to living here now. I strongly believe a comfortable living environment would have helped us adjust better,” says Kiran Sawera from Sukkur.
Anam Tahir, a Patrol Officer from Islamabad who is staying in the hostel, says that they have limited space in extremely tiny rooms and sometimes the hostel has to accommodate up to 100 trainees in a place not even meant for 50 people. The hostel is devoid of even the basic facilities. They do not have any space to study, receive guests or prepare hygienic and healthy food for themselves.
According to DIG Aslam, the training college was established in 1992 and the female hostel has not been touched since that time which means the building is in a dilapidated condition. He indicated that the hostel building is dangerous and in the event of an earthquake or a natural disaster it could even be destroyed. “We are in dire need of a better hostel facility for the women,” he says. Women’s participation in public sector jobs in Pakistan has been hindered due to several factors, including the lack of a women-friendly work environment, unequal access to professional opportunities, gender disparity in educational and professional development and socio-cultural issues. While the Government of Pakistan has set a 10% quota for women in the police force, the current percentage of women in the police force remains below 2%, despite the government’s efforts to increase female representation. In addition, most of these women are at constable level, with very few in superintendent positions.
Things are poised to get better for these female officers. Maria Batool, who has been a Patrol Officer at NH&MP for the last three years, says that she admires the struggles of women who became part of the forces decades ago despite the huge stigma associated with joining the police department. Those women paved the way for the younger generation like her and created a space for them to join this profession. She recalls how the presence of women used to bother male colleagues in Motorways Police. “Now, they don’t stop their conversations when we go near them because they know that we are part of their department and we will remain with them whether they want us to or not,” she says. “Females are now a major part of society and they cannot be kept at home forcefully. People have to accept us and they are because they are acknowledging our presence and admiring our work,” she adds. Keeping in view the problems faced by working women in the police department, UNOPS will construct hostels for female police trainees as part of the Infrastructure for Gender Equality in Police project. The aim of the project was to enhance gender equality in the police by expanding accommodation facilities and creating an enabling environment for female police personnel.
The project is being implemented by UNOPS in partnership with the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State (INL), Sindh Police and National Highways and Motorway Police. Four housing facilities will be built under this project: a hostel at the NH&MP Training College in Sheikhupura for 100 female recruits, two hostels at the Police Training College Saeedabad in Karachi for 220 female recruits, and a hostel at the Police Training College Shahdadpur in District Sanghar for 120 female recruits.
The direct beneficiaries of this project will include new female recruits, female trainers, and in-service policewomen who come to these colleges to attend mandatory promotional courses. UNOPS Pakistan Project Manager, Nauman Amin, says he is proud to lead the project. “This project will not only provide a dignified and comfortable living space to women police officers and trainees, but also encourage women to join the department,” he says. The design and construction of these multi-story buildings will be completed by UNOPS to provide sustainable and resilient infrastructure which caters to the needs of the female officers. Once the project is completed, an expected outcome would be gender responsive rule of law through an increased presence of women in law enforcement agencies. UNOPS believes in gender mainstreaming and through this strategy, addresses the need for making the experiences of women as well as men, an integral dimension of the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of policies and projects. The ultimate goal is to achieve gender equality.
There are high hopes attached to this project as it will encourage more women to join law enforcement agencies. “We have come a long way. We wear uniforms and walk without any fear. Our parents do not feel ashamed and we are proud of it,” says Batool.

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Press Release

27 September 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 27 September 2021

UNDP PRESS RELEASE Government of Pakistan and UNDP launches Digital Media Development Programme for youth skills development Islamabad, 25 September 2021—Digital Media Development Programme (DMDP), a flagship initiative of the Government of Pakistan was inaugurated by Digital Media Wing (DMW), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), yesterday. Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr Imran Khan was the chief guest for the ceremony and formally launched this initiative. Pakistan’s digital media community has been growing rapidly, with over 100 million internet users, 185 million mobile subscriptions and over 50 million people active on social media. Against this backdrop, DMDP is strategically designed to leverage the digital landscape. This will empower the youth of Pakistan in enhancing their digital skills and gain employment opportunities. The Digital Media Development Programme will bridge the gap between the students, Government of Pakistan and the digital media industry by training the youth. In the first batch, 100 capable interns will be selected placed at federal ministries and departments for three months to enhance their skills. The Programme has partnered with the world’s leading social media organizations and digital media industry experts, including YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter to give workshops to young Pakistani interns. With UNDP’s support, the students will also get monthly stipends upon successful completion of tasks. During the internship period, the interns will also be guided to conduct digital media seminars in their respective universities to engage the youth of Pakistan. The interns will also work on a project to address issues such as fake news that Pakistan faces in this particular industry. Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister Mr. Imran Khan said, “The Pakistani Youth should never underestimate their abilities and set a very high goal for themselves to achieve. You should never give up in the face of failures, and the hurdles are there only to make you stronger. Choose objectives that are bigger than yourself and serve a higher purpose. Further, he said that he is delighted to see this initiative that will involve the youth of Pakistan in furthering Pakistan’s narrative. He stressed the importance of truth and said that those who remain truthful in their life are respected.” Regarding UNDP’s support to the internship programme, the UNDP Resident Representative Knut Ostby quoted, “UNDP is pleased to support the Government of Pakistan in this effort to empower youth by providing very relevant digital skills and on-the-job training to young men and women in government offices. This kind of professional exposure will be an important step to enhance youth’s future career prospects.” UNDP, through its Youth Empowerment Programme, has already been providing digital skills trainings, entrepreneurship trainings, internships and employment opportunities to the youth in Pakistan through its various interventions since 2018. With DMDP, a more collaborative and agile digital ecosystem will be created, where all stakeholders will be working towards a common goal of transforming Pakistan’s digital landscape for the betterment of the country. For additional information, please contact Ayesha Babar at ayesha.babar@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5650

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Press Release

25 September 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 25 September 2021

United Nations READOUT Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi, Foreign Minister of Pakistan The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi, Foreign Minister of Pakistan. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s support for the work of the United Nations, particularly in its successful presidency of ECOSOC and in UN peace operations. The Secretary-General and the Foreign Minister exchanged views on developments in the region and on other issues of common concern, in particular Afghanistan. New York, 24 September 2021 *** UN Women PRESS RELEASE Strengthening institutions key to women rights says President Alvi at National Seminar on Protection of Women Against Harassment Lahore (September 24, 2021): President of Pakistan Dr Arif Alvi lauded the government’s efforts of activating institutions to protect women against harassment and to empower them by rights of ownership and possession of properties. Addressing a national seminar on protection of women against harassment, the president said it is our religious duty to protect women against harassment and to give them property rights, but unfortunately this protection is not fully accorded in some parts of the country. He, nevertheless, expressed his satisfaction over the establishment and working of the offices of ombudspersons for protection of women and emphasized that society has a role to play for protection of women against harassment. The mega seminar attended by parliamentarians, members of civil society, academia, youth and private sector entities was organized by UN Women Pakistan in collaboration with Office of the Ombudsperson, Punjab and Bargad Organization for Youth Development. Governor Punjab Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar said that the government is committed to safeguard rights of women and giving them socio-economic status that they deserve. In this connection, he said that the ombudsperson offices are essential in providing speedy justice and we will continue working to further strengthen effective implementation of the passed laws. The panelists of the seminar included Ms. Kashmala Tariq, Federal Ombudsperson; Ms. Sabira Islam, Ombudsperson Balochistan; Muhammad Kamran Khan Chief Operating Officer Punjab Safe Cities Authority; Senator Mr. Waleed Iqbal and Member Provincial Assembly Uzma Kardar, Bushra Butt, Shawana Bashir and Aysha Iqbal amongst others. Punjab Ombudsperson Nabila Hakim Ali Khan briefed the participants about working of her office in creating an enabling environment and protecting women in Punjab. She added that Office of the Ombudsperson is striving and making strenuous efforts for establishment of Inquiry Committees at all levels and in all types of offices/ workplaces in Punjab. She urged the citizens and stakeholders to access this progressive and legally strong office for grievances of women over harassment and property rights. Speaking at the seminar, UN Women Country Representative, Ms. Sharmeela Rassooel said that "The Gender Equality and Women Empowerment policy developed with technical support of UN Women is one of the prominent achievements, yet we need to work together along with all our partners for its effective implementation". Ms. Rassool further added that Gender equality cannot be achieved until women are given equal opportunities to develop and advance professionally, for which harassment-free workplaces are critical. There were two Interactive sessions were held, first with government stakeholders and CSO, and the second with parliamentarians, to recommend ways to increase ownership of federal and provincial governments and create synergy across stakeholders for effective implementation of the existing law ombudsperson law for women empowerment. The government officials and the Ombudspersons shared their learning on practical issues around the implementation of the law. The panelists also agreed on a roadmap for effective coordination and oversight of the law for anti-harassment measures and the protection of women rights of ownership and possession of properties. For Media Queries: Hassan Ali Abbasi Communications Assistant UN Women Pakistan Hassan.abbasi@unwomen.org 03335496914|0346-8502117

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Press Release

24 September 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 24 September 2021

ITC PRESS RELEASE Actions required for trade growth in Pakistan agreed upon Islamabad: The second round of hybrid consultations focusing on Plan of Action review for the development of the priority sector export strategies was concluded in Karachi. Hundreds of public and private sector representatives participated in the review and approval process of the priorities for the next five years in each of their sector. For Pakistan to achieve its trade growth ambition, the Ministry of Commerce (MoC) and TDAP are developing a coherent and comprehensive Strategic Trade Development Framework (STPF) focusing on 17 priority sectors. As part of the National Priority Sectors Export Strategy (NPSES), the International Trade Centre (ITC) is supporting MoC to develop 10 strategies directly stemming from the STPF priorities. The STPF priority sectors’ strategies design process will focus on developing actionable plans to increase their export competitiveness in the global market. The STPF priority sectors covered by the NPSES include engineering goods, leather, processed food and beverages, fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, pharmaceuticals, software development and services, business process outsourcing, logistics, and institutional coordination. The development of the priority sector export strategies will aim to reduce barriers to international trade growth which can become a key driver for Pakistan’s economic recovery in a post-pandemic world. The sector strategies will enable potential for companies in Pakistan to diversify and improve their competitiveness and exports, better participate in global and regional value chains, and move up the quality ladder, by innovating, producing and exporting higher value products, and marketing through branding and promotion. Each sector session invited industry stakeholders to review and validate the Action Plans, while agreeing on the responsibilities for each implementing agency. In addition to key national institutions and private sector representatives, development partners were also invited to support implementation of the sector strategies. These consultations are conducted by MOC and TDAP and are directly aligned with the ambitions from the Government of Pakistan to develop exports. The newly formed National Export Development Board (NEDB) will further steer the implementation of the STPF and the sector strategies through Sector Advisory Councils (SAC). “The NPSES comes at a crucial time for Pakistan. As the hon. Prime Minister of Pakistan emphasised the need to boost Pakistani exports, the NPSES will provide a tangible and concrete roadmap for the Government and private sector to work together towards this goal, while creating jobs and new opportunities for Pakistan. The NPSES will reflect the needs of Pakistani exporters and the Ministry is committed to implement the Plans of Action that will emanate from it” said Sualeh Ahmad Faruqi, the Federal Secretary of Commerce of Pakistan. The development of the NPSES is supported by the Revenue Mobilisation, Investment and Trade (ReMIT) Programme, implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), and funded by the United Kingdom Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). For more information, contact: Waqas Rafique, International Trade Centre, Geneva wrafique@intracen.org *** UNDP PRESS RELEASE UNDP establishes a Command and Control Centre to support Gilgit Baltistan Police to connect digitally Gilgit, September 24, 2021—UNDP Pakistan’ has established a Command and Control Centre for Gilgit Baltistan Police to connect digitally in Gilgit. Inspector General of Police Gilgit Baltistan, Mr. Saeed Khan Wazir, and UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Mr. Knut Ostby inaugurated the newly established Command and Control Centre today. The pandemic has increased the need to connect virtually to work efficiently. Operational now with relevant equipment including cameras, sound systems, screens and licensed Zoom accounts, the Command and Control Centre will enable the Gilgit Baltistan Police to conduct conferences and meetings virtually—within Gilgit Baltistan and with officials in other provinces as well. The centre, established through UNDP’s Amn-o-Insaf programme, will also help the capacity building of police officials to use digital platforms and thus save time and reduce costs significantly. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Inspector General of Police Gilgit Baltistan, Mr. Saeed Khan Wazir thanked UNDP for extending its support, and expressed hope that the collaboration between UNDP and Gilgit Baltistan Police will continue to thrive and grow. UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Mr. Knut Ostby highlighted that strengthening justice sector institutions is essential to strengthening Rule of Law in Pakistan. “The Command and Control Centre is a step towards further interventions that will strengthen the justice and Rule of Law sector in Gilgit Baltistan. With support from our partner, Global Fund, UNDP is also working with the Government of Gilgit Baltistan to develop a Rule of Law roadmap that will provide strategic guidance for rule of law reforms in the region”, he added. For additional information, please contact Ayesha Babar at ayesha.babar@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5650 *** UNODC PRESS RELEASE 1ST NATIONAL TABLE-TALK EXERCISE TO PROMOTE INTERAGENCY COOPERATION IN PAKISTAN’S MARITIME DOMAIN KARACHI (24 September 2021): United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Country Office in Pakistan concluded the 1st National Table-Talk Exercise. This four-day exercise was organized in the Movenpick Hotel Karachi. It aimed at addressing the challenges of drugs trafficking and smuggling of contraband items through Pakistan’s coastal areas and maritime domain more effectively. The participating law enforcement agencies included the Anti Narcotics Force, Pakistan Customs and the Pakistan Coast Guards. The exercise was designed to identify challenges, gaps, best practices and lessons-learnt, for enhancing interagency coordination and interoperability in Pakistan’s maritime domain. While warmly welcoming the participants at the inaugural session on 21 September 2021, Dr. Jeremy Milsom, Representative UNODC Country Office in Pakistan highlighted the existing and emerging trends of drug trafficking, Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling, and smuggling of other contraband items emanating from Afghanistan, and creating governance and security challenges in Pakistan and the wider region. He emphasized the need to improve interagency and regional cooperation, to respond to these challenges more amicably, particularly in the aftermath of recent political changes in Afghanistan. In his opening remarks, Mr. Akbar Hussain Durrani (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz), Secretary Ministry of Narcotics Control highlighted Pakistan’s crucial role as the first-line of defence against the massive flow of opiates and its derivatives, synthetic drugs and new psychotropic substances through Pakistan – both for domestic consumption and transnational trafficking to rest of the world. He stressed the importance of fully implementing countermeasures, as envisaged in Pakistan’s Anti Narcotics Policy 2019, especially to combat the threats of narcotics abuse in educational settings. In his opening remarks, Mr. Mark Stroh, the U.S. Consul General Karachi thanked Pakistan for making concerted efforts in counter-narcotics, being the main transit country neighboring Afghanistan. He recognized the major role being played by the Anti Narcotics Force and other counter-narcotics law enforcement agencies in this regard, and the need for enhancing technical capacity – to detect, deter and disrupt drug trafficking proactively. He also appreciated a close and strong relationship between Pakistan and the United States of America in the fight against drug proliferation. In his opening remarks, Major General Ghulam Shabeer Narejo, Director General Anti Narcotics Force highly appreciated the efforts by UNODC, to bring together important stakeholder for a wholesome view of illicit trafficking and smuggling of various kinds, and to find more practical solutions. He highlighted Pakistan’s major role, to safeguard the international community against the existing and emerging threats of drug trafficking and other transnational organized crime emanating from Afghanistan. He also stressed the need for improving interagency coordination and thanked UNODC for this idea of bringing together all concerned counterparts for open discussion through this exercise. The exercise was facilitated by International experts from UNODC’s Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP). It was also attended by the National Crime Agency of the United Kingdom as an observer. Extensive technical discussions were held among Pakistani maritime law enforcement agencies, around the challenges of illicit trafficking and smuggling and how to address those through an integrated response in the maritime domain. The Director General Anti Narcotics Force chaired the closing session as the Chief Guest. He also distributed completion certificates among all participants. The event was organized by UNODC Country Office Pakistan under its project entitled ‘Improved National Response against Drugs and Contraband Trafficking in the Maritime Domain’ – funded by the U.S. Department of State’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Pakistan. For further information, please contact:- Ms. Rizwana Rahool, Communications Officer, UNODC Pakistan, cell: 0301 8564255, email: rizwana.asad@un.org *** ریلیز پاکستان میں میری ٹائم کے شعبے میں متعلقہ اداروں کے درمیان تعاون کے فروغ کے لئے پہلی نیشنل ٹیبل ٹاک کا انعقاد کراچی (24 ستمبر 2021): اقوام متحدہ دفتر برائے انسدادِ منشیات و جرائم پاکستان کی جانب سے پاکستان کے ساحلی علاقوں کے راستے منشیات اور دیگر ممنوعہ اشیاء کی سمگلنگ اور میری ٹائم کے شعبے میں درپیش دیگر مشکلات کے ازالہ کے سلسلے میں منعقد کی گئی پہلی نیشنل ٹیبل ٹاک اپنے اختتام کو پہنچ گئی۔ چار روزہ ٹیبل ٹاک کا اہتمام موون پک ہوٹل کراچی میں کیا گیا جس میں انٹی نارکوٹکس فورس، پاکستان کسٹمز اور پاکستان کوسٹ گارڈز سمیت قانون نافذ کرنے والے متعلقہ اداروں نے حصہ لیا۔ اس موقع پر پاکستان کے میری ٹائم کے شعبے کو درپیش مشکلات اور مختلف حوالوں سے اس میں پائی جانے والی کمی کی نشاندہی کے علاوہ مختلف اداروں کے درمیان باہمی تعاون بہتر بنانے اور مل کر کام کرنے کے لئے بہترین مروجہ طریقوں اور سبق آموز تجربات پر تبادلہ خیالات کیا گیا۔ 21 ستمبر 2021 کو منعقد ہونے والے افتتاحی سیشن میں شرکاء کا پرتپاک خیرمقدم کرتے ہوئے پاکستان میں یو این او ڈی سی کنٹری آفس کے نمائندے ڈاکٹر جیریمی مِلسم نے منشیات کی سمگلنگ، انسانی سمگلنگ، مہاجرین کی سمگلنگ، اور افغانستان سے ہونے والی دیگر ممنوعہ اشیاء کی سمگلنگ کے موجودہ اور ابھرتے ہوئے رجحانات اور ان کی وجہ سے پاکستان اور وسیع تر خطے کے لئے پیدا ہونے والی گورننس اور سلامتی کی مشکلات پر روشنی ڈالی۔ انہوں نے بالخصوص افغانستان کی حالیہ سیاسی تبدیلیوں کے پیش نظر ان مشکلات پرموثر جوابی اقدامات کے لئےمتعلقہ اداروں کے درمیان اور علاقائی سطح پر تعاون بہتر بنانے کی ضرورت پر زور دیا۔ سیکرٹری وزارتِ انسدادِ منشیات جناب اکبر حسین درانی (تمغہ امتیاز) نے اپنے ابتدائی کلمات میں پاکستان کے اس انتہائی اہم کردار کو اجاگر کیا جو وہ خود اپنے ملک میں اور دنیا بھر کو سمگل کی جانے والی افیون اور اس سے بنائی جانے والی نشہ آور اشیاء، سنتھیٹک منشیات اور نفسیاتی بیماریاں پیدا کرنے والی نشہ آور اشیاء کی نئی اقسام کی بڑے پیمانے پر سمگلنگ کے خلاف پیش پیش رہتے ہوئے ادا کر رہا ہے۔ انہوں نے اس سلسلے میں پاکستان کی انسدادِ منشیات پالیسی، 2019، میں وضع کئے گئے انسدادی اقدامات پر بھرپور عملدرآمد کی اہمیت پر زور دیا جن میں تعلیمی اداروں میں منشیات کے استعمال سے متعلق خطرات کا خاتمہ خاص طور پر قابل ذکر ہے۔ کراچی میں امریکہ کے قونصل جنرل جناب مارک سٹروہ نے اپنے ابتدائی کلمات میں انسدادِ منشیات کی بھرپور کوششوں پر پاکستان کا شکریہ ادا کیا جو ہمسایہ ملک افغانستان کے لئے ایک بڑی راہداری ہے۔ انہوں نے اس سلسلے میں انٹی نارکوٹکس فورس اور انسداد منشیات سے متعلق قانون نافذ کرنے والے دیگر اداروں کی طرف سے ادا کئے جانے والے مرکزی کردار کو سراہا اور اس بات کو تسلیم کیا کہ منشیات کی سمگلنگ کا سراغ لگانے اور اسے روکنے کے لئے تکنیکی استعداد میں بہتری ضروری ہے۔ انہوں نے منشیات کے پھیلاؤ کے خلاف جدوجہد میں پاکستان اور امریکہ کے درمیان موجود مضبوط اور قریبی تعلق کو سراہا۔ انٹی نارکوٹکس فورس کے ڈائریکٹر جنرل میجر جنرل غلام شبیر نریجو نے اپنے ابتدائی کلمات میں یو این او ڈی سی کی جانب سے کی جانے والی کوششوں کو بھرپور انداز میں سراہا جن کی بدولت مختلف اشیاء کی غیرقانونی سمگلنگ پر ایک کلی نقطہ نظر پیدا کرنے اور مسائل کے عملی حل تلاش کرنے کے لئے اہم متعلقہ فریقوں کو یکجا کرنے کا موقع ملا۔ انہوں نے منشیات کی سمگلنگ اور دیگر منظم بین الاقوامی جرائم کے سلسلے میں افغانستان سے پیدا ہونے والے موجودہ اور ابھرتے ہوئے خطرات سے بین الاقوامی برادری کو تحفظ فراہم کرنے کے لئے پاکستان کے مرکزی کردار پر روشنی ڈالی۔ انہوں نے مختلف متعلقہ اداروں کے درمیان باہمی تعاون بہتر بنانے کی ضرورت پر زور دیا اور تمام متعلقہ فریقوں کو اس گفتگو کے سلسلے میں یکجا کرنے پر یو این او ڈی سی کا شکریہ ادا کیا۔ ٹیبل ٹاک کے سلسلے میں یو این او ڈی سی کے گلوبل میری ٹائم کرائم پروگرام (جی ایم سی پی) سے تعلق رکھنے والے بین الاقوامی ماہرین نے معاونت فراہم کی۔ برطانیہ کی نیشنل کرائم ایجنسی نے بطور مبصر اس میں حصہ لیا۔ اس دوران میری ٹائم کے شعبے سے متعلق پاکستان کے قانون نافذ کرنے والے اداروں کے درمیان میری ٹائم کے میدان میں غیرقانونی سمگلنگ کی مشکلات اور باہم مربوط اقدامات کے ذریعے انہیں دور کرنے کے طریقوں پر تفصیلی تبادلہ خیالات کیا گیا۔ ڈائریکٹر جنرل اینٹی نارکوٹکس فورس نے اختتامی سیشن میں بطور چیف گیسٹ شرکت کی اورتمام شرکاء میں سرٹیفکیٹس بھی تقسیم کیے۔ ٹیبل ٹاک کا اہتمام یو این او ڈی سی کنٹری آفس پاکستان نے میری ٹائم کے شعبے میں منشیات اور ممنوعہ اشیاء کی سمگلنگ کے جواب میں قومی سطح پر بہتر جوابی اقدامات سے متعلق اپنے پراجیکٹ کے تحت کیا تھا۔ اس پراجیکٹ کے لئے مالی تعاون امریکی محکمہ خارجہ کے انٹرنیشنل نارکوٹکس اینڈ لاء انفورسمنٹ افیئرز (آئی این ایل) پاکستان نے فراہم کیا ہے۔ مزید معلومات کے لئے رابطہ:- محترمہ رضوانہ راہول، کمیونیکیشنز آفیسر، یو این او ڈی سی پاکستان، موبائل: 0301 8564255، ای میل: rizwana.asad@un.org

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Press Release

23 September 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 23 September 2021

UNIDO PRESS RELEASE UNIDO is Enhancing the Collaboration of Stakeholders for Apple Value Chain (AVC) in Balochistan with the First Public Private Partnership (PPP) Platform Quetta (23 September 2021), The Minister for Agriculture and Cooperative Department, Government of Balochistan, Engineer Zamarak Khan Achakzai, chaired the first Public Private Partnership (PPP) platform meeting of The Project for Agri-Food and Agro-Industry Development Assistance (PAFAID) organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Department of Agriculture Government of Balochistan. Established under PAFAID project, the objective of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Platform for the Apple Value Chain (AVC) in Balochistan is to enhance the collaboration of public and private sectors stakeholders in piloting applications of the compliance capacities and value addition practices in the apple value chain in Balochistan. The forum also supported the development and validation of required policies, procedures and strategies related to the AVC in Balochistan. The chief guest, Engineer Zamarak Khan Achakzai, The Minister for Agriculture and Cooperative Department, Government of Balochistan, appreciated JICA and UNIDO’s for supporting the agriculture department for developing the Good Agricultural Practices and Apple Value Chain Development and investment strategy. He said, “Synergies among projects, programs and organizations, including government department is vital for improvement of apple value chain”. During the PPP meeting, UNIDO presented the Apple Value Chain Development & Investment (AVCD&I) Strategy for Balochistan to the members of the platform for their feedback and inputs. The Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) guideline for apple value chain was also reviewed. The meeting was attended by representatives from P&D, Women Development Department, Finance Department, local government and Rural Development Department, official from agriculture extension directorate, representatives from Chamber of Commerce and Industry Quetta, industry association, farmer association, transporters, cold storage owners, Balochistan Agriculture College, SMEDA and UN agencies. PAFAID, is a four-year Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funded project and being implemented by UNIDO in close coordination with Government of Pakistan, aims at improved pilot applications of the compliance capacities and value addition practices in the cattle meat value chain in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and apple value chain in Balochistan province. For more information, please visit website www.pafaid.org.

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Press Release

21 September 2021

Media Update-2: United Nations Pakistan, 21 September 2021

UNHCR PRESS RELEASE Country-wide DRIVE updates details of 500,000 registered Afghan refugees PESHAWAR, 21 September 2021 – Pakistan has updated details of more than 500,000 registered Afghan refugees as part of a country-wide campaign to issue renewed Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. Some 1.4 million already registered Afghan refugees are being verified and issued with new biometric cards through 35 sites and four mobile units. The last large-scale verification of refugees in the country was undertaken 10 years ago. Known as the Documentation Renewal and Information Verification Exercise – DRIVE – the government-led campaign is run by Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and Commissionerate for Afghan Refugees (CAR), with the support of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and is expected to be completed within the year. DRIVE will boost Pakistan’s efforts to enhance protection and assistance for refugees. The cards will better enable refugees to access critical services, such as health and education. Refugees who completed their DRIVE verification interviews receive SMS notifications advising them of when and where their new PoR smartcards can be collected. “I applaud the progress Pakistan has made with this exercise. It is a global leader in terms of developing a high-tech refugee registration platform which enables refugee protection and solutions. I hope more countries will follow in Pakistan’s footsteps in providing documentation to refugees,” said the UNHCR Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific Indrika Ratwatte while visiting a DRIVE Centre in Peshawar today. Pakistan’s NADRA has printed and distributed some 100,000 new smartcards to existing registered Afghan refugees. “A lot has changed since the last large-scale exercise in Pakistan 10 years ago. The refugee smartcards are an important tool of protection, and it enables the Government and UNHCR to have current information on the refugee population, including vulnerabilities, skills and education levels to better inform the provision of services and assistance,” Ratwatte added. The smart PoR cards, which will be valid until June 2023, are legally recognized proof of identity and include enhanced security features. These cards will also be technologically compatible with systems used in Pakistan to authenticate the identities of nationals to access services. DRIVE is also part of a wider effort to seek solutions for Afghan refugees, particularly through the Support Platform for the Solutions Strategy for Afghan Refugees (SSAR). The exercise will help collect data on the educational and professional backgrounds of refugees. This information will also assist in the development of skills training and enhance education opportunities for refugees, as well as match the needs for specific skill sets with opportunities in Afghanistan, which may enable voluntary return and sustainable reintegration in the future. Measures are in place at all DRIVE sites to mitigate COVID-19 risks through enhanced hygiene, physical distancing, and the scheduling of set numbers of appointments each day. ENDS

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