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The Sustainable Development Goals 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.
Publication
08 November 2022
United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2023-2027 for Pakistan
With this framework, the UN in Pakistan has prioritized five development outcomes to improve people’s lives in Pakistan, especially the lives of those at the greatest risk of being left behind. The UN will support Pakistan to move forward on its pathway towards sustainable development, on the understanding that:✓ If basic social services – including health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education and social protection – are strengthened, there will be increased equal access to sustainable quality services for all.✓ If women, girls and transgender persons are empowered to reach their fullest potential, their human, social, economic and cultural rights will be fully protected and upheld, and they will have decision-making power over all aspects of their lives.✓ If the health of the Indus River Basin is restored and protected, and resources are equitably and efficiently used, the Indus will sustain a thriving civilization from its sources to the sea, and Pakistan will be much better equipped to adapt to climate change and mitigate its impact.✓ If there is sustainable and inclusive green economic growth and decent work, there will be equitable employment opportunities, enhanced productivity, a sustainable business environment and the realization of workers’ rights.✓ If inclusive, accountable and efficient governance systems are in place, they will provide equitable service delivery, affordable and accessible justice systems, and enable people to be aware of – and obtain – their rights.To download an abridged version: Click here
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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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09 January 2025
Bold action to rescue SDGs in Pakistan
AS the New Year beckons, and the world begins to count down the final six years of the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, our shared vision of decisive progress towards sustainable development everywhere stands at a precipice. The ambitions of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — launched in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all — are slipping out of reach.In recognition of this grave danger, UN Secretary General António Guterres has declared a “global emergency”, underscoring the urgent need for bold and transformative actions. The recently adopted UN Pact for the Future provides a renewed framework for re-energising Agenda 2030. Specifically, member states have reaffirmed their commitment to closing the SDG financing gap, through scaling up official development assistance, combating illicit financial flows, and mobilising domestic and private resources.Pakistan exemplifies the struggle of low- and middle-income countries trapped in a web of debt, climate vulnerability, and under-investment in human development. Ranked 137th out of 166 nations in the UN Sustainable Development Report 2024, Pakistan’s SDG performance is off track. While modest improvements are noted in some areas, eight out of the 17 SDGs show stagnation, and three are regressing.Gains that are made in human development terms are literally washed away by the effects of climate change on a regular basis.An estimated 40 per cent of Pakistan’s population — approximately 97 million people — lives in poverty, with women disproportionately bearing the impact. Twenty-six million children do not go to school and half of the women population cannot read or write. Forty per cent of children under five are stunted.These figures represent the enormous challenges Pakistan has to overcome to achieve sustainable development and improve the living standards of its people. While Pakistan has made progress in 2024 towards macroeconomic stabilisation, with inflation dropping to a six-year low, the financing gap for achieving the SDGs in the country remains staggering: a conservative projection puts it at around $60 billion annually, which is 16pc of GDP. The price tag of turning such indicators of deprivation around, and meeting the SDGs, dwarfs the country’s revenue base.Without alternative sources of finance, we fear Agenda 2030 will not be accomplished.As of September 2024, Pakistan’s total debt and liabilities stood at an estimated $308.2bn, representing 81.2pc of GDP. Of this, total external debt and liabilities amounted to $133.4bn. Debt servicing costs the government over half of its annual budget, leaving little room for investments in development priorities. Every dollar allocated to debt repayment is a dollar denied to building schools, improving healthcare, or mitigating the impacts of climate change. These issues are critical not only to human development in Pakistan, but also to the country’s future economic growth and prosperity.Pakistan’s challenges are compounded by the global climate crisis it did not create. Gains that are made in human development terms are literally washed away by the effects of climate change on a regular basis. Contributing less than 1pc to global emissions, Pakistan is among the top 10 nations that are most vulnerable to climate change. The devastating floods of 2022, which submerged more than 10pc of the country, served as a stark reminder of how the Global South bears the brunt of a crisis driven by the industrialised world. Pakistan is obliged to take on more debt to recover from, and attempt to build resilience to, disasters caused by consumption patterns far away, perpetuating a cycle of dependency and vulnerability.In the face of its SDG financing gap, it is time to consider bold options.A six-year standstill on the Pakistan government’s external debt repayments would be one pragmatic and morally compelling solution. It would free up an estimated $108bn, providing the fiscal breathing room needed to invest in re-energising Agenda 2030 in Pakistan. With these resources, Pakistan could widen social safety nets, lifting an estimated 10m out of extreme poverty;reduce maternal and infant mortality; improve schoolenrolment rates; andinvest in climate resilience to protect millions from future shocks.Critics will argue that implementing a debt standstill is fraught with challenges. Multilateral creditors may resist, citing preferred creditor status. Bilateral lenders may be reluctant to create a precedent. Private creditors may fear losses on bonds.These concerns are valid, but not insurmountable. Indeed, the world came together during the Covid-19 crisis to implement not dissimilar debt standstills. Let us recognise that the remaining six-year window to deliver Agenda 2030 represents a crossroads that is equally perilous. And, of course, any debt standstill arrangement would require a robust governance framework be put in place to ensure that funds freed are transparently allocated to SDG priorities, with clear accountability mechanisms to ensure proper use.Short of a full standstill, a break on interest payments can also be considered. Other countries have also experimented with “debt for development swap” arrangements.The UN’s Pact for the Future provides a unique opportunity to align global priorities with the needs of vulnerable nations. Its call to mobilise resources comprehensively to galvanise progress towards achieving Agenda 2030 in this last six years must be heeded.Let Pakistan breathe. Let it invest in its people and its future. And let this moment mark the beginning of a new era of global solidarity, where no nation is left behind in the quest for sustainable development. We are on the final stretch for the SDGs. It is time to be bold.Mohamed Yahya is the United Nations resident and humanitarian coordinator in Pakistan.Bilal Azhar Kayani is a member of the National Assembly and the convener of the National Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs.Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2024
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13 November 2024
Pakistan’s Lady Health Workers: Offering a Lifeline of Health and Hope
As the sun rises over the desert of Tharparkar, the small village of Chehlar begins to wake up under a blistering sky. Despite the harsh heat, the people of Chehlar continue their daily routines. Parveen, 39, a mother of two, has already prepared a simple breakfast for her family and sent her daughters to school, which is miles away. Now, she gathers her materials, pamphlets, and tools for her session at the local health house.Today, in her role as a lady health worker, Parveen will meet with a group of women who have walked, some for over an hour along with their children, to address a diarrhea outbreak in the village. Poor sanitation and lack of clean water have made many sick, and there is a risk of acute malnutrition if the situation persists. Sitting in a circle in the stifling heat, the women listen attentively to Parveen.“It is important to wash hands frequently,” she advises. “If you don’t have access to clean water, boil it before drinking, and eat soft foods such as potatoes, boiled rice, and lentils to boost your immune system.” During the session, Parveen records the names of those needing further examination and prepares to refer them to the nearby health center for nutrition assistance. She then checks the children for malnutrition, using a simple tape measure around their upper arms. Today, an eight-month-old boy shows signs of severe undernourishment. His mother watches anxiously as Parveen gently reassures her, offering guidance on nutrition and registering the child for additional care.This is just one part of Parveen’s work. For 24 years, she has walked from home to home, teaching mothers how to prepare nutritious meals and reminding them about vaccinations.“At first, people didn’t trust me,” Parveen says. “But over time, they saw that I was here to help. Now they respect me, and they listen.”Lady health workers like Parveen are lifelines in their communities, bridging the gap between households and healthcare systems. They teach families essential health practices, guiding mothers on hygiene, and nutrition and preparing meals that improve family diets. Parveen’s expertise developed under the Community Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) Surge programme, equips her to assess malnutrition, monitor pregnant women, and coach new mothers.The CMAM Surge approach, launched in Umerkot in 2021 and now expanded to Tharparkar, strengthens health systems in regions with high malnutrition rates. Funded by the European Union and implemented by WFP and Concern Worldwide, the programme provides tools and training to health workers like Parveen, who help detect malnutrition and link communities to critical care. This model, embedded across 12 health centers, enables responsive, effective care during seasonal surges of malnutrition caused by poverty, limited clean water, and high vulnerability to infections and drought. Since Pakistan’s Lady Health Worker (LHW) was launched in 1994, it has empowered community health champions in underserved areas, setting a global standard for grassroots health. LHWs like Parveen are crucial in spotting malnutrition early and establishing reliable referral networks to ensure families get timely help, especially during crises. In the past year, Parveen has referred 180 malnutrition cases to the Basic Health Unit in Chehlar, providing each with dedicated follow-up.Prepared for any emergency, from floods to disease outbreaks, Parveen carries her essential health kit — fetoscope, measuring tape, weight scale — delivering accurate, prompt care wherever needed.“This new way of doing things has really improved the system,” Parveen says.She glances at the women still gathered around her, their faces reflecting the heat but also hope. “Now, when we send someone to the health facility, they know who to go to, and they get the right care. The link between us and the hospital is much stronger.”— — Anam Abbas
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09 October 2024
Safe drinking water remains unavailable to nearly half of the people living in Pakistan
Waterborne diseases, and the resulting loss of life, are widespread and further compounded by the scarcity of water testing and monitoring resources – crucial to safeguarding drinking water. Working together over the past three years, UNOPS, the Korea International Cooperation Agency and the government of Pakistan have upgraded 45 laboratories across the country. We had old equipment and didn’t have the right equipment. It used to take around a week to test a water sample. But now, thanks to the new equipment UNOPS and KOICA have provided, we can test water samples quickly and get the results in just a few hours: Farah Naz - Senior Research Officer, Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources, Islamabad Through the $4.5 million project, UNOPS procured and installed state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and upgraded the facilities of Public Health Engineering Departments, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency and the Pakistan Council for Research in Water Resources to ensure safe environments that support efficiency. Capacity at the water testing labs was developed via training for the Ministry of Climate Change and the rollout of a management information system. Remote areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province have never had local water testing facilities. To address this challenge, eight vehicles were remodelled to serve as mobile testing laboratories. “These mobile laboratories can travel to remote areas where there are no facilities to test the water quality. They can collect samples and test the water for pollutants. UNOPS has also provided us with management information system software to help make our operations paperless and more efficient,” said Shahid Sohail Khan, Secretary Public Health and Engineering Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The project is set to benefit over 60 million people across Pakistan.Story: UNOPS Pakistan
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06 August 2024
Building a Future Free from Child Trafficking: A Collaborative Effort!
By working together, we can build a future where no child is subjected to the horrors of trafficking and every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and supportive environment," emphasized Senator Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson of the National Commission on Rights of Child (NCRC). "We have to act fast to ensure that no child is left behind," she added.In an unprecedented collaborative effort, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), alongside the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), came together to commemorate World Day against Trafficking in Persons 2024 in Islamabad. The event, held under the global theme “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking,” highlighted the collective commitment to protect children and reduce their vulnerability to trafficking.“Children are particularly vulnerable of trafficking for several reasons, including poverty, lack of access to education, humanitarian crises or lack of support networks”, said Uqbaan Khan, one of the student while talking to FIA in the margins of the commemoration of the TIP Day. Many passionate students from the National University of Moder-in Languages (NUML) Rawalpindi shared powerful messages to raise awareness. Their voices added a vibrant and inspiring dimension to the day's activities, emphasizing the urgency of protecting children from trafficking. https://fb.watch/tFBvdM8EIV/?mibextid=w8EBqM Approximately 100 participants from across Pakistan joined to discuss the urgent issue of child trafficking and emphasize the protection of children’s rights. Children represent a significant proportion of trafficking victims globally, with girls disproportionately affected. Rising inequalities and globalization have fueled complex trafficking networks, further exposing children to exploitation via online platforms.The event aimed to raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of child trafficking in Pakistan while highlighting the collaborative efforts of various organizations. National partners and stakeholders were recognized for their significant contributions to combating human trafficking.Ms Shahida Gilani read the message of UNODC Executive Director , “This year’s theme focuses on child victims, which have tripled over the past 15 years. According to UNODC’s data, globally, children account for one-third of trafficking victims, suffering unspeakable abuse.”While the Director ILO emphasized the urgent need to combat human trafficking, particularly its impact on children. “With 3.3 million children trafficked worldwide, it is crucial for state systems to adopt integrated approaches that prioritize child protection”, the Senior Programme Coordinator at IOM, highlighted the importance of stronger partnerships and improved migration management.The Executive Director of SSDO and the Head of Office at ICMPD both emphasized the need for a systematic approach to victim identification and support. They highlighted the importance of increased prosecutions, better labor inspections, and enhanced public awareness to effectively address and prevent trafficking. They also underscored the necessity of collaborative frameworks to combat human trafficking, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that no child falls through the cracks and that every child is protected from exploitation and harm.As the main stakeholders in the efforts by international agencies and civil society, government representatives Director General FIA Mr. Ahmad Ishaque Jahangir (PSP) and Abbas Ahsan, Additional Director General of FIA, spoke on the TIP Day. Director General FIA added, “Human trafficking, particularly child trafficking, is a serious human rights violation that demands our unwavering attention and action. Our work is significantly enhanced through collaboration with our esteemed partners.” And “Our society and law enforcement must acknowledge what constitutes trafficking, its prevalence in Pakistan, and its impact on children,” emphasized Additional Director General, underscoring the serious nature of child trafficking.
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21 May 2024
Empowering Lives: UNDP's Food Security Initiative for People Living with HIV in Pakistan
Recognizing this critical need, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has taken a significant step forward. Since 2021, UNDP has been actively collaborating with the Association of Persons Living with HIV (APLHIV), with support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria. Their collaborative effort includes a vital food package program specifically designed to empower PLHIV in Pakistan by tackling food insecurity head-on.
The rationale behind UNDP's food distribution program is clear: for HIV positive individuals, maintaining adequate nutrition is critical to support adherence and tolerance to the lifesaving HIV treatment medication – antiretrovirals. Further, food insecurity can increase the progression of AIDS-related illnesses, reduce the capacity of HIV positive individuals to work and contribute to family and community security. In Pakistan, access to regular, nutritious food remains a significant challenge for people living with HIV due to various socio-economic factors.
UNDP's food distribution process involves providing four packages annually – one for each quarter of the year. These food packages are curated carefully, containing essential components necessary for a balanced diet such as flour, rice, milk, pulses, and cooking oil. As part of our quality assurance procedures, all items included in the food package undergo thorough lab testing to ensure their quality prior to dispatch. As of 2024, UNDP has distributed more than 18,000 food packages to PLHIV across all four provinces of Pakistan, in addition to the federal level. Distribution is as follows: Balochistan: 538 packs, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) 3,249 packs, Punjab: 3,868 packs, Sindh: 8,932 packs and Federal: 1,422 packs.
These food packages serve as more than just a source of nutrition; they also bring a sense of solidarity and support. Ms. Ruqaiya, a beneficiary from Islamabad, expressed, “It’s not just a food package, it’s a package of hope and happiness for us.” UNDPs commitment to providing food assistance underscores its dedication to addressing the multifaceted needs of PL HIV in Pakistan.Amid ongoing challenges, including the socio-economic repercussions, UNDP remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting PLHIV in Pakistan. Through strategic partnerships, innovative interventions, and a holistic approach to development, UNDP continues to make meaningful strides towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and leaving no one behind. As UNDP's food distribution efforts continue and its commitment to strengthening HIV prevention and response persists, UNDP is not only saving lives but also building a more resilient and inclusive society for all. Story: UNDP Pakistan
The rationale behind UNDP's food distribution program is clear: for HIV positive individuals, maintaining adequate nutrition is critical to support adherence and tolerance to the lifesaving HIV treatment medication – antiretrovirals. Further, food insecurity can increase the progression of AIDS-related illnesses, reduce the capacity of HIV positive individuals to work and contribute to family and community security. In Pakistan, access to regular, nutritious food remains a significant challenge for people living with HIV due to various socio-economic factors.
UNDP's food distribution process involves providing four packages annually – one for each quarter of the year. These food packages are curated carefully, containing essential components necessary for a balanced diet such as flour, rice, milk, pulses, and cooking oil. As part of our quality assurance procedures, all items included in the food package undergo thorough lab testing to ensure their quality prior to dispatch. As of 2024, UNDP has distributed more than 18,000 food packages to PLHIV across all four provinces of Pakistan, in addition to the federal level. Distribution is as follows: Balochistan: 538 packs, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) 3,249 packs, Punjab: 3,868 packs, Sindh: 8,932 packs and Federal: 1,422 packs.
These food packages serve as more than just a source of nutrition; they also bring a sense of solidarity and support. Ms. Ruqaiya, a beneficiary from Islamabad, expressed, “It’s not just a food package, it’s a package of hope and happiness for us.” UNDPs commitment to providing food assistance underscores its dedication to addressing the multifaceted needs of PL HIV in Pakistan.Amid ongoing challenges, including the socio-economic repercussions, UNDP remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting PLHIV in Pakistan. Through strategic partnerships, innovative interventions, and a holistic approach to development, UNDP continues to make meaningful strides towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and leaving no one behind. As UNDP's food distribution efforts continue and its commitment to strengthening HIV prevention and response persists, UNDP is not only saving lives but also building a more resilient and inclusive society for all. Story: UNDP Pakistan
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Press Release
21 January 2025
Media Update: United Nations Pakistan,20 January 2025
Quetta, January 17, 2025 – Florence Rolle, FAO Representative in Pakistan, visited Quetta to foster collaboration with key Balochistan government officials, participate in the introductory meeting of the EU-funded project, “Post Floods Resilient Recovery and Strengthening of the Livestock Sector in Balochistan”, and visit project sites under the EU-funded “Revival of Balochistan Water Resources Programme (RBWRP)”.FAOR Florence Rolle accompanied by Waleed Mahdi, Head of FAO Office Balochistan, and James Okoth, Head of FAO Office Sindh, held productive meetings with Ali Akbar Baloch, Secretary Agriculture; Tayyab Lehri, Secretary Livestock; Noor Ahmed Pirkani, Secretary Forest; and DG PDMA, Rafiq Ghorezai. The discussions centred on enhancing collaboration between FAO and the Government of Balochistan to advance sustainable practices in agriculture, livestock, irrigation, and forestry.FAOR Florence also attended the introductory meeting of the “Post Floods Resilient Recovery and Strengthening of the Livestock Sector in Balochistan” project, where key decisions were made regarding the composition of the Project Steering Committee (PSC), its Terms of Reference (ToRs), and district selection criteria.In the field, FAOR Florence laid the foundation for the rehabilitation of Quetta’s Chashma Achozai Karez, an underground water channel serving over 3,000 residents and irrigating approximately 500 acres of farmland. The ongoing rehabilitation will enhance water access and agricultural sustainability for the community. She also observed the rehabilitation of earthen bunds in Chashma Achozai, which aim to improve grazing areas and increase forage availability for livestock.In Killi Atakzai village, Hanna Urak, Quetta, FAOR Florence inaugurated the first of ninety-nine climate-adaptive animal shelters, which are being built in various districts of Balochistan under the Revival of Balochistan Water Resources Programme (RBWRP). These shelters integrate rooftop water harvesting techniques and improved hygiene facilities to promote sustainable livestock management. The initiative ensures equitable access for female farmers, underscoring FAO’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and sustainable development.FAOR Florence visited the Farmer Field School in Killi Sufi Khuchlak Village, where farmers are learning innovative onion farming techniques, including seed testing, certification, and water-efficient trickle irrigation. These practices are contributing to increased incomes and enhanced water productivity.FAOR Florence also visited a local beneficiary’s field, where FAO’s distribution of certified Alfalfa seeds is enriching soil fertility, boosting fodder availability, and improving livestock health —key elements in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
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Press Release
15 January 2025
Media Update: United Nations Pakistan,14 January 2025
Islamabad/Riyadh, 14 January 2025 - UNICEF and The Muslim World League (MWL) have signed a US$1.5 million agreement to enhance education and skill-building programmes in Chad and Pakistan and to improve maternal, newborn and childcare services in Afghanistan. The agreement was signed by UNICEF Representative to Pakistan, Abdullah A. Fadil, on behalf of UNICEF’s Executive Director, Catherine Russell, and MWL’s General Manager of Strategic Partnerships, Dr. Shaima Alluqmani, on the sidelines of the global conference on Muslim World League Initiative Hosted by Pakistan “Girls’ Education in Muslim Communities: Challenges and Opportunities”, held in Islamabad, Pakistan.‘The climate crisis and digital divide are critical challenges faced by children in Pakistan every day. Providing vulnerable children and youth, especially girls, with the education and skills they need will empower them to reach their full potential and help Pakistan prosper. We look forward to working with the Muslim World League to help ensure that no girl is left behind,’ said UNICEF Representative to Pakistan, Abdullah A. Fadil.The agreement will support the "Green Skills Training Programme for Non-Formal Education Students" in Pakistan to equip adolescents - especially girls - with essential green skills and digital skills. This programme will enhance their employability and empower them to contribute to a sustainable future.In Chad, the "Renovation of Koranic Schools in Lac" programme aims to improve access to education and learning environment in Koranic schools. This programme includes teacher training, the construction of 12 classrooms, and the provision of clean water to 500 students in two schools.As for Afghanistan, the "Improving Quality of Care for Maternal, Newborn and Childcare Health Services (MNCH)" programme was designed to increase access to and utilization of high-quality MNCH services across the country through strengthening health facilities, equipping them with necessary supplies, and improving clinical practices. This program seeks to reduce maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity by ensuring better care and coverage.Dr. Shaima Al-Luqmani, Director General of Strategic Partnerships at the Muslim World League, stated that the MWL is keen for such agreements to represent an important pillar of the MWL's initiative: “Girls' Education in Muslim Communities: Challenges and Opportunities," through tangible projects that positively impact the future of millions of girls and women in Muslim societies.Al-Luqmani added that the initiatives and partnerships established by the MWL with various governmental and non-governmental regional and international organizations have emphasized inclusivity in their programs, whether in the field of girls’ education and its related services and institutions, or in raising awareness and correcting misconceptions and misinterpretations that cast doubt on the undisputed legitimate right of girls to receive education.Muslim World League and UNICEF had partnered for over 14 years, delivering impactful results for children and reaching the most vulnerable with humanitarian supplies and services in education, health, social protection, water and sanitation hygiene ‘WASH’. This longstanding collaboration aims to create sustainable solutions that address the pressing needs of children and their families around the world.***About Muslim World LeagueMuslim World League is an international non-profit, non-governmental organisation with headquarters in the holy city of Makkah. It aims to present the tolerant principles of true Islam, provide humanitarian aid, extend bridges of dialogue and cooperation with all, engage in positive openness to all cultures and civilizations, and follow the path of centrism and moderation to realize the message of Islam and ward off movement calling for extremism, violence and exclusion for a world full of peace, justice and coexistence.About UNICEFUNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.
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Press Release
23 December 2024
Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 20 December 2024
Islamabad, 19 December 2024 — A closing ceremony is held today to mark the successful completion of the project "Community-led Flood Rehabilitation and Restoration in Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provinces of Pakistan". This project, supported by the Government of Japan in partnership with Pakistan’s federal and provincial governments, was a key component of UNDP's flagship Pakistan Flood Recovery Programme, launched in April 2023 to support one million of the most vulnerable people impacted by the devastating floods of 2022.With a generous contribution of USD 4.6 million from the Government of Japan, the project focused on six of the most severely flood-affected districts: Dera Ismail Khan, Naseerabad, Jafarabad, Dadu, Larkana, and Jacobabad.The project created a lasting impact by empowering over 141,000 individuals in flood-affected areas, with women comprising almost half of the beneficiaries. It helped revive local livelihoods, restore safety and dignity, and improve access to markets and social services by supporting the revival of micro-enterprises and distribution of 20,000 agricultural toolkits. In addition, it helped improve safe living conditions by providing 6,000 health and hygiene kits; 2,000 household solar energy systems; 2,000 water filtration systems, and insect repellents. These efforts have addressed the immediate needs of flood-affected communities while laying a strong foundation for long-term recovery and resilience.Addressing the ceremony, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi stated, “We believe that such a holistic approach is critical to bringing sustainability and resilience in the most vulnerable communities in Pakistan. With the increasing climate risks, community resilience to the impact of disasters and emergency situations is the cornerstone of remaining on track for sustainable development pathway in Pakistan.Ms. Nasira Batool, Joint Secretary, Economic Affairs Division, expressed her gratitude and re-iterated the Government's commitment to sustainable development: "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Japan for their unwavering friendship, and to UNDP for their exceptional contributions. This initiative has provided essential relief and long term resilience to over 141,000 people across Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this project's success. Together, we have proven that unity and determination can overcome even the greatest challenges.”While the project has officially concluded, its impact endures through resilient communities and stronger local institutions, paving the way for sustained recovery in Pakistan through restored livelihoods, improved living conditions, and empowered communities.In thanking the Government of Japan, UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Dr. Samuel Rizk, stated, "This project stands as a testament to the resilience of flood-affected communities in overcoming hardship and adversity. Together, we have supported the implementation of locally-led solutions that not only restore hope but also empower these communities as they rebuild their lives and livelihoods in the aftermath of the floods. At the successful completion of this project, UNDP reaffirms commitment to accompany the people and institutions in Pakistan on their path toward resilience, recovery and sustainable development.”Contact Details:
For additional information, please contact Fizza Bangash at fizza.bangash@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5631About UNDP:UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.Learn more at undp.org or follow at @UNDP
For additional information, please contact Fizza Bangash at fizza.bangash@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5631About UNDP:UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.Learn more at undp.org or follow at @UNDP
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Press Release
12 December 2024
Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 11 December 2024
UNICEFPRESS RELEASEFastest global increase in birth registration rates in South Asia - UNICEF
New UNICEF report also shows that 42 million children under age five are still without legal identities in South AsiaKATHMANDU, 11 December 2024 — Over the last two decades, South Asia has seen the fastest increase in birth registration rates among all regions, soaring from 39 per cent in 2008 to 76 per cent in 2024, according to a new UNICEF report released today.India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have made significant strides in securing legal identities for millions of children, as per the report, The Right Start in Life: Global levels and trends in birth registration, 2024 update. Maldives, Bhutan and Sri Lanka have near 100 per cent coverage. Prioritizing timely registration; using health, social protection, and education systems to register babies; expanding services to more locations; digitizing the process; and eliminating fees are some of the reasons for the progress. Released on UNICEF’s 78th birthday, the report is the latest update on the number of children registered since 2019.“A birth certificate is the foundation for legal identity. But it’s so much more than a document. It protects children’s rights and enables them to access essential services like healthcare, education and other social services,” said Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia. “Today, as UNICEF marks 78 years of championing children’s rights, we celebrate the millions of children who now have their right to a legal identity and a lifetime of promise and possibility.” Over 42 million children under age five are still not registered and remain ‘invisible’ in South Asia. This means they are deprived of their right to legal identity and social services. According to the report, one-fourth of the total number of unregistered children under five globally lives in South Asia.To achieve universal birth registration by 2030, Afghanistan and Pakistan, in particular, must accelerate their efforts. Bangladesh, which has made significant increases over the past decade, needs to scale up birth registration. India has also made remarkable progress over the last ten years, and a ‘celebrating the last-mile' strategy would enable the country to reach universal birth registration by 2030.Countries can recommit to scale up birth registration across South Asia, ahead of the ‘Third Ministerial Conference on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) in Asia and the Pacific’ in June 2025.UNICEF is calling for every child to be registered at birth; for the registration process to be streamlined; and for health, social protection and education programmes to be used in scaling up birth registration.“To uphold our commitment to leave no child behind, we must prioritize birth registration to protect children and give them the best start in life,” said Wijesekera. “UNICEF calls on leaders across South Asia to accelerate efforts so that every child in the region is registered at birth. It’s the right thing to do.” Notes to editors:Download multimedia content here. View the report and data here.Article 7 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child states affirms every child's right to have their identity established ‘immediately’ after birth through birth registration. Find out more here.Estimates are based on comparable data collected between 2014 and 2023 for a subset of 173 countries, representing 98 per cent of the global population of children under age 5. The latest available data for around 80 per cent of these countries are from the last five years. Data sources include nationally representative household surveys such as the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) and Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), vital statistics from civil registration systems, censuses and other nationally representative surveys that use a comparable methodology.For more information, please contact:Sabrina Sidhu, UNICEF South Asia, +91 9384030106, ssidhu@unicef.org About UNICEF
UNICEF works in some of the world's toughest places, to reach the world's most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF’s work for children in South Asia, visit www.unicef.org/rosa.Follow UNICEF on Twitter and Facebook. UNDPPRESS RELEASESKhyber Pakhtunkhwa Police launches its first-ever Gender Strategy, Gender-Responsive Policing Policy, and SOPs for Gender-Responsive DesksPeshawar, 10 December 2024 – In a significant step toward ensuring gender-responsive policing, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Police launched its first-ever Gender Strategy, Gender-Responsive Policing Policy, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Gender-Responsive Desks, under the European Union (EU) funded ‘Deliver Justice Programme’ which is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).These landmark initiatives were launched by Mr Akhtar Hayat Khan, Inspector General of the KP Police, marking the end of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and aim to create safer, more inclusive police stations for women, both as duty bearers and right holders.The Gender Strategy, Policy, and SOPs are priorities of the second iteration of the KP Rule of Law Roadmap (2023-2028) and are expected to play a pivotal role in advancing gender-responsive policing and rule of law in the province.Mr Akhtar Hayat Khan, Inspector General KP Police, took this opportunity to reaffirm, “With this launch today, we have achieved a milestone in advancing gender equality at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and it is a major step towards ending violence against women and girls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This year, we have seen an unprecedented increase in the number of women participating in our recruitment process, with candidates coming from even the most remote areas of KP. We remain committed to ensuring a safer environment for women police officers and GBV survivors, as this is the key to improving the reporting rate in GBV cases.” He also thanked the EU and UNDP Pakistan for their partnership and support in making the institution more gender-responsive for both the women officers and the communities that they serve.The KP Police Gender Strategy will promote gender equality by increasing women’s representation within the force and making the institution more gender responsive. Complementing this, the Gender-Responsive Policing Policy and SOPs will help develop the capacity of law enforcement to address the unique needs of vulnerable groups, including women and marginalized communities, with a special focus on survivors of gender-based violence.In a virtual message, H.E. Dr Riina Kionka, EU Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan said, “Statistics show that violence against women and girls ha increased here in recent years. This should be reversed and gender-responsive law enforcement is part of the answer. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 5 year Police Gender Strategy that we are launching today, is a key step in that direction, and we stand behind its implementation.” She also thanked Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police for their commitment to end GBV and UNDP for their continued support to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police in achieving this crucial goal.Under the EU-funded 20 million Euro ‘Deliver Justice Programme,’ the UNDP Rule of Law Programme successfully established four gender-responsive desks in the police stations in Peshawar. Similarly, during the past two years, UNDP supported the KP Police to train over 550 police officers, including more than 90 women officers, on handling GBV cases and gender-responsive policing skills.Mr Kaiser Ishaque, Assistant Resident Representative UNDP Pakistan, underlined, “Improving gender-responsive, accountable, and efficient rule of law service delivery in KP, including its merged districts, is a top priority for the UNDP Rule of Law programme to address crimes against women, improve working conditions for women police officers, and encourage more women to join the police service.” He also thanked KP Police and the EU for their long-lasting partnership to shape safer and more peaceful communities in KP.For additional information, please contact Fizza Bangash at fizza.bangash@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5631About the Project:The 20 Million Euro “Deliver Justice Programme”, is funded by the EU and aims to support reform processes to ensure the delivery of people-centred justice, enhance access to justice for all, particularly women and less privileged groups, and improve service delivery of the security sector in line with constitutional safeguards and international standards in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Merged Districts and Balochistan. The programme is funded by the EU and jointly implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).The UNDP Rule of Law Programme is implementing a range of interventions to enhance security and justice sector governance in Pakistan.About UNDP:UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.Learn more at undp.org European Union and UNDP partner with Government of Pakistan to launch Huqooq-e-Pakistan II for Human Rights AdvancementIslamabad, 09 December 2024 — The European Union (EU) in partnership with the Government of Pakistan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) jointly commemorated the International Human Rights Day with the launch of its flagship human rights Huqooq-e-Pakistan II (HeP II) project.This EU-funded initiative builds on the first phase (2019–2022) and aims to support key Pakistani actors in promoting, protecting, and fulfilling human rights across the country.Being the second phase of the project, the EU continues to show its strong commitment to strengthening the human rights ecosystem in Pakistan. In her welcome address, H.E. Riina Kionka, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, reiterated the nexus between human rights, peace, and economic prosperity indicating that “human rights are the stepping stone of development and prosperity in all of its dimensions.”In his closing reflections, Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative UNDP Pakistan, thanked the Government of Pakistan and the EU for their support in making HeP II possible. Marking Human Rights Day, he acknowledged both the challenges and the progress on human rights in Pakistan, highlighting “the contributions of Pakistan’s human rights champions and defenders across all sectors and backgrounds.”HeP II focuses on four key strategic areas: i) partnering with the government for strengthened human rights implementation and reporting; ii) working with human rights institutions to fortify their role as watchdog bodies; iii) collaborating with universities to promote human rights education; and iv) engaging the private sector to strengthen the role of businesses in protecting human rights.While speaking about the role of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) as Pakistan’s watchdog institution and first A-status accredited National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha commented that, “There is an urgent need to strengthen human rights in Pakistan. NCHR looks forward to this partnership to protect and promote the rights of the most marginalized, including those affected by the intersection of climate vulnerability, gender inequality, and poverty.”The Federal Minister for Human Rights, Azam Nazeer Tarar opened the event by expressing the government’s commitment to meeting its human rights obligations and highlighted Pakistan’s progress on human rights, including “efforts to strengthen gender equality, curtail child marriage, and empower transgender persons.” He noted the importance of all stakeholders working together in silos to strengthen human rights in Pakistan. For further details, please contact:Samar Saeed Akhtar, Press and Information Officer, samar-saeed.akhtar@eeas.europa.eu, Delegation of the European Union to PakistanFizza Bangash, Head of Communications, fizza.bangash@undp.org, UNDP Pakistan UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.
Learn more at undp.org or follow at @UNDP.
New UNICEF report also shows that 42 million children under age five are still without legal identities in South AsiaKATHMANDU, 11 December 2024 — Over the last two decades, South Asia has seen the fastest increase in birth registration rates among all regions, soaring from 39 per cent in 2008 to 76 per cent in 2024, according to a new UNICEF report released today.India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have made significant strides in securing legal identities for millions of children, as per the report, The Right Start in Life: Global levels and trends in birth registration, 2024 update. Maldives, Bhutan and Sri Lanka have near 100 per cent coverage. Prioritizing timely registration; using health, social protection, and education systems to register babies; expanding services to more locations; digitizing the process; and eliminating fees are some of the reasons for the progress. Released on UNICEF’s 78th birthday, the report is the latest update on the number of children registered since 2019.“A birth certificate is the foundation for legal identity. But it’s so much more than a document. It protects children’s rights and enables them to access essential services like healthcare, education and other social services,” said Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia. “Today, as UNICEF marks 78 years of championing children’s rights, we celebrate the millions of children who now have their right to a legal identity and a lifetime of promise and possibility.” Over 42 million children under age five are still not registered and remain ‘invisible’ in South Asia. This means they are deprived of their right to legal identity and social services. According to the report, one-fourth of the total number of unregistered children under five globally lives in South Asia.To achieve universal birth registration by 2030, Afghanistan and Pakistan, in particular, must accelerate their efforts. Bangladesh, which has made significant increases over the past decade, needs to scale up birth registration. India has also made remarkable progress over the last ten years, and a ‘celebrating the last-mile' strategy would enable the country to reach universal birth registration by 2030.Countries can recommit to scale up birth registration across South Asia, ahead of the ‘Third Ministerial Conference on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) in Asia and the Pacific’ in June 2025.UNICEF is calling for every child to be registered at birth; for the registration process to be streamlined; and for health, social protection and education programmes to be used in scaling up birth registration.“To uphold our commitment to leave no child behind, we must prioritize birth registration to protect children and give them the best start in life,” said Wijesekera. “UNICEF calls on leaders across South Asia to accelerate efforts so that every child in the region is registered at birth. It’s the right thing to do.” Notes to editors:Download multimedia content here. View the report and data here.Article 7 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child states affirms every child's right to have their identity established ‘immediately’ after birth through birth registration. Find out more here.Estimates are based on comparable data collected between 2014 and 2023 for a subset of 173 countries, representing 98 per cent of the global population of children under age 5. The latest available data for around 80 per cent of these countries are from the last five years. Data sources include nationally representative household surveys such as the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) and Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), vital statistics from civil registration systems, censuses and other nationally representative surveys that use a comparable methodology.For more information, please contact:Sabrina Sidhu, UNICEF South Asia, +91 9384030106, ssidhu@unicef.org About UNICEF
UNICEF works in some of the world's toughest places, to reach the world's most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF’s work for children in South Asia, visit www.unicef.org/rosa.Follow UNICEF on Twitter and Facebook. UNDPPRESS RELEASESKhyber Pakhtunkhwa Police launches its first-ever Gender Strategy, Gender-Responsive Policing Policy, and SOPs for Gender-Responsive DesksPeshawar, 10 December 2024 – In a significant step toward ensuring gender-responsive policing, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Police launched its first-ever Gender Strategy, Gender-Responsive Policing Policy, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Gender-Responsive Desks, under the European Union (EU) funded ‘Deliver Justice Programme’ which is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).These landmark initiatives were launched by Mr Akhtar Hayat Khan, Inspector General of the KP Police, marking the end of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and aim to create safer, more inclusive police stations for women, both as duty bearers and right holders.The Gender Strategy, Policy, and SOPs are priorities of the second iteration of the KP Rule of Law Roadmap (2023-2028) and are expected to play a pivotal role in advancing gender-responsive policing and rule of law in the province.Mr Akhtar Hayat Khan, Inspector General KP Police, took this opportunity to reaffirm, “With this launch today, we have achieved a milestone in advancing gender equality at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and it is a major step towards ending violence against women and girls in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This year, we have seen an unprecedented increase in the number of women participating in our recruitment process, with candidates coming from even the most remote areas of KP. We remain committed to ensuring a safer environment for women police officers and GBV survivors, as this is the key to improving the reporting rate in GBV cases.” He also thanked the EU and UNDP Pakistan for their partnership and support in making the institution more gender-responsive for both the women officers and the communities that they serve.The KP Police Gender Strategy will promote gender equality by increasing women’s representation within the force and making the institution more gender responsive. Complementing this, the Gender-Responsive Policing Policy and SOPs will help develop the capacity of law enforcement to address the unique needs of vulnerable groups, including women and marginalized communities, with a special focus on survivors of gender-based violence.In a virtual message, H.E. Dr Riina Kionka, EU Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan said, “Statistics show that violence against women and girls ha increased here in recent years. This should be reversed and gender-responsive law enforcement is part of the answer. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 5 year Police Gender Strategy that we are launching today, is a key step in that direction, and we stand behind its implementation.” She also thanked Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police for their commitment to end GBV and UNDP for their continued support to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police in achieving this crucial goal.Under the EU-funded 20 million Euro ‘Deliver Justice Programme,’ the UNDP Rule of Law Programme successfully established four gender-responsive desks in the police stations in Peshawar. Similarly, during the past two years, UNDP supported the KP Police to train over 550 police officers, including more than 90 women officers, on handling GBV cases and gender-responsive policing skills.Mr Kaiser Ishaque, Assistant Resident Representative UNDP Pakistan, underlined, “Improving gender-responsive, accountable, and efficient rule of law service delivery in KP, including its merged districts, is a top priority for the UNDP Rule of Law programme to address crimes against women, improve working conditions for women police officers, and encourage more women to join the police service.” He also thanked KP Police and the EU for their long-lasting partnership to shape safer and more peaceful communities in KP.For additional information, please contact Fizza Bangash at fizza.bangash@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5631About the Project:The 20 Million Euro “Deliver Justice Programme”, is funded by the EU and aims to support reform processes to ensure the delivery of people-centred justice, enhance access to justice for all, particularly women and less privileged groups, and improve service delivery of the security sector in line with constitutional safeguards and international standards in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Merged Districts and Balochistan. The programme is funded by the EU and jointly implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).The UNDP Rule of Law Programme is implementing a range of interventions to enhance security and justice sector governance in Pakistan.About UNDP:UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.Learn more at undp.org European Union and UNDP partner with Government of Pakistan to launch Huqooq-e-Pakistan II for Human Rights AdvancementIslamabad, 09 December 2024 — The European Union (EU) in partnership with the Government of Pakistan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) jointly commemorated the International Human Rights Day with the launch of its flagship human rights Huqooq-e-Pakistan II (HeP II) project.This EU-funded initiative builds on the first phase (2019–2022) and aims to support key Pakistani actors in promoting, protecting, and fulfilling human rights across the country.Being the second phase of the project, the EU continues to show its strong commitment to strengthening the human rights ecosystem in Pakistan. In her welcome address, H.E. Riina Kionka, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan, reiterated the nexus between human rights, peace, and economic prosperity indicating that “human rights are the stepping stone of development and prosperity in all of its dimensions.”In his closing reflections, Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative UNDP Pakistan, thanked the Government of Pakistan and the EU for their support in making HeP II possible. Marking Human Rights Day, he acknowledged both the challenges and the progress on human rights in Pakistan, highlighting “the contributions of Pakistan’s human rights champions and defenders across all sectors and backgrounds.”HeP II focuses on four key strategic areas: i) partnering with the government for strengthened human rights implementation and reporting; ii) working with human rights institutions to fortify their role as watchdog bodies; iii) collaborating with universities to promote human rights education; and iv) engaging the private sector to strengthen the role of businesses in protecting human rights.While speaking about the role of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) as Pakistan’s watchdog institution and first A-status accredited National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha commented that, “There is an urgent need to strengthen human rights in Pakistan. NCHR looks forward to this partnership to protect and promote the rights of the most marginalized, including those affected by the intersection of climate vulnerability, gender inequality, and poverty.”The Federal Minister for Human Rights, Azam Nazeer Tarar opened the event by expressing the government’s commitment to meeting its human rights obligations and highlighted Pakistan’s progress on human rights, including “efforts to strengthen gender equality, curtail child marriage, and empower transgender persons.” He noted the importance of all stakeholders working together in silos to strengthen human rights in Pakistan. For further details, please contact:Samar Saeed Akhtar, Press and Information Officer, samar-saeed.akhtar@eeas.europa.eu, Delegation of the European Union to PakistanFizza Bangash, Head of Communications, fizza.bangash@undp.org, UNDP Pakistan UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.
Learn more at undp.org or follow at @UNDP.
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Press Release
11 December 2024
Media Update: United Nations Pakistan,10 December 2024
UNDPMEDIA ADVISORYCelebrate International Mountain Day in IslamabadWhat:
Join us in celebrating International Mountain Day at Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination in Islamabad.Opening Remarks by Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam: Welcoming participants and providing an overview of the significance of International Mountain Day, delivered by the Coordinator MoCC Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam.Video Screening: Showcasing a brief video by MoCC and UNDP to highlight ongoing initiatives supporting mountain ecosystems and communities.Interactive Discussion: A short discussion session on the challenges and opportunities related to mountain conservation and climate resilience, with input from ministry officials and UNDP representatives.Closing Remarks by UNDP Pakistan Assistant Resident Representative Mr. Mustafa Mahmood When:
Wednesday, 11 Dec | 10:00AM to 11:30 AM Where:
MoCC Committee Room, MoCC, IslamabadEntry:
Free of charge.Contact:
Ms. Shameen Raza
UNDP
Tel.: +92 300 5444539
Email: shameen.raza@undp.org
UNICEFPRESS RELEASEUNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council (UPAC) launched to drive collective action for child rightsIslamabad, 10 December 2024 – The UNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council (UPAC) was launched today to create a strategic platform to advance child rights in Pakistan. The Council brings together thought leaders, philanthropists and advocates who share UNICEF’s values and a commitment to tackle the challenges facing children, from access to education, nutrition and protection to gender barriers, frontier technologies and climate change.“This is an important moment for children in Pakistan. UPAC brings together a diverse network of leaders and advocates to inspire, engage and collaborate to create a more equitable Pakistan for children. The Council will help forge new pathways and co-create solutions that uplift children to reach their true potential,” said Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.UPAC is co-chaired by Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan and Murtaza Hashwani, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist. The Council currently consists of 17 members from the business sector, civil society, media and academia who are committed to promoting child rights and positive change in their areas of influence.The Council will convene regularly to discuss strategies, leverage their networks and resources, explore innovations, and share insights and expertise to inform UNICEF’s programmes and child-centred solutions.‘’Every decision and investment that impacts children also shapes Pakistan’s growth and development. Only a truly collective effort will help us to achieve sustainable and scalable results for children. We look forward to answering this call and taking up this challenge to accelerate results for children,” said Murtaza Hashwani, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist.About The UNICEF National Advisory Council
The UNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council is a strategic initiative introduced to unite leaders and influencers to champion child rights in Pakistan. Members will serve terms of one to two years, with structured orientation and accountability measures in compliance with UNICEF’s Global Transparency Guidelines.
About UNICEF UNICEF works in some of the world's toughest places, to reach the world's most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF’s work in Pakistan, visit: https://www.unicef.org/pakistan/ For further information, please contact:A. Sami MalikCommunication SpecialistUNICEF PakistanEmail: asmalik@unicef.orgTel: +92 300 8556654 ایڈوائزری کونسل قائم کرلی گئیاسلام آباد، 10 دسمبر 2024 – یونیسف پاکستان ایڈوائزری کونسل (UPAC) نے آج سے اپنی خدمات کا آغاز کردیا ہے، جس کا مقصد پاکستان میں بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ کے لیے ایک اسٹریٹیجک پلیٹ فارم فراہم کرنا ہے۔ یہ کونسل ایسے مفکرین، فلاحی کاموں میں حصہ لینے والوں، اور بچوں کے حقوق کے علم برداروں کو اکٹھا کرتی ہے، جو یونیسف کی اقدار اور بچوں کو درپیش مسائل، مثلاً تعلیم، غذائیت اور تحفظ تک رسائی سے لے کر صنفی رکاوٹوں، جدید ترین ٹیکنالوجیز اور ماحولیاتی تبدیلیوں سے جڑی مشکلات سےنمٹنے کے لیے پُرعزم ہیں۔اس موقع پر یونیسف پاکستان کے سربراہ، عبداللہ فاضل نے کہا، ’’ پاکستان کے بچوں کے لیے یہ ایک اہم موقع ہے۔ یوپی اے سی ایک متنوع نیٹ ورک کو بچوں کے لیے ایک انصاف پر مبنی پاکستانی معاشرہ تخلیق کرنےکے لیے رہنماؤں اور بچوں کے حقوق کے لیے کام کرنے والوں کو اکٹھا کرتی ہے تاکہ لوگوں کو ترغیب دینے، مشترکہ اقدامات اٹھانے اور تعاون بڑھانے کیلئے کوششیں کی جا سکیں۔ کونسل نئے راستے تلاش کرنے اور مشترکہ حل تخلیق کرنے میں مدد کرے گی، جس سے بچے اپنی بھرپور صلاحیتیں بروئے کار لانے کے قابل ہو سکیں گے۔‘‘یونیسف کے سربراہ، عبداللہ فاضل اور معروف کاروباری و فلاحی شخصیت، مرتضیٰ ہاشوانی مشترکہ طور پر یو پی اے سی کی صدارت کریں گے۔ کونسل میں اس وقت سترہ (۱۷) ارکان شامل ہیں، جو کاروباری شعبے، سول سوسائٹی، میڈیا اور تعلیمی اداروں سے منسلک ہیں اور اپنے اپنے شعبوں میں بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ اور مثبت تبدیلی لانے کیلئے کوشاں ہیں۔کونسل کے اجلاس باقاعدگی سے منعقد ہونگے، جن کے مقاصد میں مختلف حکمت عملیوں پر تبادلہ خیال کرنا، نیٹ ورکس اور وسائل سے فائدہ اٹھانا، مختلف اختراعات پر غور کرنا اور یونیسف کے پروگراموں اور بچوں کی بہتری پر مرکوز سہولیات کو فروغ دینے کے لیے بصیرت اور مہارتوں کا تبادلہ کرنا شامل ہیں۔فلاحی اور کاروباری شعبے کی معروف شخصیت ، مرتضیٰ ہاشوانی کا کہنا تھا، ’’ہر فیصلہ اور سرمایہ کاری جو بچوں پر اثرانداز ہوتی ہے، وہ پاکستان کی ترقی اور خوشحالی کی بھی تشکیل کرتی ہے۔ صرف ایک حقیقی اجتماعی کوشش ہی بچوں کے لیے پائیدار اور قابل پیمائش نتائج حاصل کرنے میں ہماری مدد کر سکتی ہے۔ ہم یونیسف کی تعاون کی درخواست کا مثبت جواب دیتے ہوئے بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ کی کوششوں میں تیزی لانے کا بیڑہ اٹھار ہے ہیں۔‘‘یونیسف نیشنل ایڈوائزری کونسلیونیسف پاکستان ایڈوائزری کونسل ایک اسٹریٹیجک اقدام ہے جس کا مقصد پاکستان میں بچوں کے حقوق کے لیے رہنماؤں اور اثرورسوخ رکھنے والوں کو متحد کرنا ہے۔ کونسل میں 17 ارکان شامل ہیں جن میں نجی شعبے اور سول سوسائٹی کے ارکان، سماجی و سیاسی اثر رسوخ والے افراد، اور فکری رہنما شامل ہیں جو بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ اور اپنے اثرورسوخ کے شعبوں میں تبدیلی لانے کے لیے پرعزم ہیں۔ کونسل کی رکنیت میں جغرافیہ، نسلی، صنفی اور مہارت کے لحاظ سے تنوع کا خیال رکھا گیا ہے تاکہ بچوں کے لیے زیادہ سے زیادہ موثر اقدامات اٹھائے جا سکیں ۔ ارکان ایک سے دو سال کی مدت کے لیے خدمات انجام دیں گے، جن کی تنظیمی رہنمائی اور ذمہ داری کے انتظامات یونیسف کے عالمی شفافیت کے رہنما اصولوں کے مطابق ہوں گے۔یونیسفیونیسف دنیا کے چند مشکل ترین مقامات پر خدمات انجام دے رہا ہے، تاکہ دنیا کے پسماندہ ترین بچوں کو ضروری خدمات تک رسائی دی جا سکے۔ 190 سے زیادہ ممالک اور خطوں میں ہم ہر بچے کے لئے، ہر جگہ، ہر ایک کے لیے ایک بہتر دنیا کی تعمیر کے لئے کوشاں ہیں۔ پاکستان میں بچوں کی بہتری کے لیے یونیسف کے کام کے بارے میں مزید معلومات کے لئے ملاحظہ کریں: http://www.unicef.org/pakistanمزید معلومات کے لیے رابطہ کیجیے:عبدالسمیع ملک، کمیونی کیشن اسپیشلسٹ، یونیسف پاکستان +92 300 855 6654 - asmalik@unicef.org
Join us in celebrating International Mountain Day at Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination in Islamabad.Opening Remarks by Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam: Welcoming participants and providing an overview of the significance of International Mountain Day, delivered by the Coordinator MoCC Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam.Video Screening: Showcasing a brief video by MoCC and UNDP to highlight ongoing initiatives supporting mountain ecosystems and communities.Interactive Discussion: A short discussion session on the challenges and opportunities related to mountain conservation and climate resilience, with input from ministry officials and UNDP representatives.Closing Remarks by UNDP Pakistan Assistant Resident Representative Mr. Mustafa Mahmood When:
Wednesday, 11 Dec | 10:00AM to 11:30 AM Where:
MoCC Committee Room, MoCC, IslamabadEntry:
Free of charge.Contact:
Ms. Shameen Raza
UNDP
Tel.: +92 300 5444539
Email: shameen.raza@undp.org
UNICEFPRESS RELEASEUNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council (UPAC) launched to drive collective action for child rightsIslamabad, 10 December 2024 – The UNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council (UPAC) was launched today to create a strategic platform to advance child rights in Pakistan. The Council brings together thought leaders, philanthropists and advocates who share UNICEF’s values and a commitment to tackle the challenges facing children, from access to education, nutrition and protection to gender barriers, frontier technologies and climate change.“This is an important moment for children in Pakistan. UPAC brings together a diverse network of leaders and advocates to inspire, engage and collaborate to create a more equitable Pakistan for children. The Council will help forge new pathways and co-create solutions that uplift children to reach their true potential,” said Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.UPAC is co-chaired by Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan and Murtaza Hashwani, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist. The Council currently consists of 17 members from the business sector, civil society, media and academia who are committed to promoting child rights and positive change in their areas of influence.The Council will convene regularly to discuss strategies, leverage their networks and resources, explore innovations, and share insights and expertise to inform UNICEF’s programmes and child-centred solutions.‘’Every decision and investment that impacts children also shapes Pakistan’s growth and development. Only a truly collective effort will help us to achieve sustainable and scalable results for children. We look forward to answering this call and taking up this challenge to accelerate results for children,” said Murtaza Hashwani, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist.About The UNICEF National Advisory Council
The UNICEF Pakistan Advisory Council is a strategic initiative introduced to unite leaders and influencers to champion child rights in Pakistan. Members will serve terms of one to two years, with structured orientation and accountability measures in compliance with UNICEF’s Global Transparency Guidelines.
About UNICEF UNICEF works in some of the world's toughest places, to reach the world's most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF’s work in Pakistan, visit: https://www.unicef.org/pakistan/ For further information, please contact:A. Sami MalikCommunication SpecialistUNICEF PakistanEmail: asmalik@unicef.orgTel: +92 300 8556654 ایڈوائزری کونسل قائم کرلی گئیاسلام آباد، 10 دسمبر 2024 – یونیسف پاکستان ایڈوائزری کونسل (UPAC) نے آج سے اپنی خدمات کا آغاز کردیا ہے، جس کا مقصد پاکستان میں بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ کے لیے ایک اسٹریٹیجک پلیٹ فارم فراہم کرنا ہے۔ یہ کونسل ایسے مفکرین، فلاحی کاموں میں حصہ لینے والوں، اور بچوں کے حقوق کے علم برداروں کو اکٹھا کرتی ہے، جو یونیسف کی اقدار اور بچوں کو درپیش مسائل، مثلاً تعلیم، غذائیت اور تحفظ تک رسائی سے لے کر صنفی رکاوٹوں، جدید ترین ٹیکنالوجیز اور ماحولیاتی تبدیلیوں سے جڑی مشکلات سےنمٹنے کے لیے پُرعزم ہیں۔اس موقع پر یونیسف پاکستان کے سربراہ، عبداللہ فاضل نے کہا، ’’ پاکستان کے بچوں کے لیے یہ ایک اہم موقع ہے۔ یوپی اے سی ایک متنوع نیٹ ورک کو بچوں کے لیے ایک انصاف پر مبنی پاکستانی معاشرہ تخلیق کرنےکے لیے رہنماؤں اور بچوں کے حقوق کے لیے کام کرنے والوں کو اکٹھا کرتی ہے تاکہ لوگوں کو ترغیب دینے، مشترکہ اقدامات اٹھانے اور تعاون بڑھانے کیلئے کوششیں کی جا سکیں۔ کونسل نئے راستے تلاش کرنے اور مشترکہ حل تخلیق کرنے میں مدد کرے گی، جس سے بچے اپنی بھرپور صلاحیتیں بروئے کار لانے کے قابل ہو سکیں گے۔‘‘یونیسف کے سربراہ، عبداللہ فاضل اور معروف کاروباری و فلاحی شخصیت، مرتضیٰ ہاشوانی مشترکہ طور پر یو پی اے سی کی صدارت کریں گے۔ کونسل میں اس وقت سترہ (۱۷) ارکان شامل ہیں، جو کاروباری شعبے، سول سوسائٹی، میڈیا اور تعلیمی اداروں سے منسلک ہیں اور اپنے اپنے شعبوں میں بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ اور مثبت تبدیلی لانے کیلئے کوشاں ہیں۔کونسل کے اجلاس باقاعدگی سے منعقد ہونگے، جن کے مقاصد میں مختلف حکمت عملیوں پر تبادلہ خیال کرنا، نیٹ ورکس اور وسائل سے فائدہ اٹھانا، مختلف اختراعات پر غور کرنا اور یونیسف کے پروگراموں اور بچوں کی بہتری پر مرکوز سہولیات کو فروغ دینے کے لیے بصیرت اور مہارتوں کا تبادلہ کرنا شامل ہیں۔فلاحی اور کاروباری شعبے کی معروف شخصیت ، مرتضیٰ ہاشوانی کا کہنا تھا، ’’ہر فیصلہ اور سرمایہ کاری جو بچوں پر اثرانداز ہوتی ہے، وہ پاکستان کی ترقی اور خوشحالی کی بھی تشکیل کرتی ہے۔ صرف ایک حقیقی اجتماعی کوشش ہی بچوں کے لیے پائیدار اور قابل پیمائش نتائج حاصل کرنے میں ہماری مدد کر سکتی ہے۔ ہم یونیسف کی تعاون کی درخواست کا مثبت جواب دیتے ہوئے بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ کی کوششوں میں تیزی لانے کا بیڑہ اٹھار ہے ہیں۔‘‘یونیسف نیشنل ایڈوائزری کونسلیونیسف پاکستان ایڈوائزری کونسل ایک اسٹریٹیجک اقدام ہے جس کا مقصد پاکستان میں بچوں کے حقوق کے لیے رہنماؤں اور اثرورسوخ رکھنے والوں کو متحد کرنا ہے۔ کونسل میں 17 ارکان شامل ہیں جن میں نجی شعبے اور سول سوسائٹی کے ارکان، سماجی و سیاسی اثر رسوخ والے افراد، اور فکری رہنما شامل ہیں جو بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ اور اپنے اثرورسوخ کے شعبوں میں تبدیلی لانے کے لیے پرعزم ہیں۔ کونسل کی رکنیت میں جغرافیہ، نسلی، صنفی اور مہارت کے لحاظ سے تنوع کا خیال رکھا گیا ہے تاکہ بچوں کے لیے زیادہ سے زیادہ موثر اقدامات اٹھائے جا سکیں ۔ ارکان ایک سے دو سال کی مدت کے لیے خدمات انجام دیں گے، جن کی تنظیمی رہنمائی اور ذمہ داری کے انتظامات یونیسف کے عالمی شفافیت کے رہنما اصولوں کے مطابق ہوں گے۔یونیسفیونیسف دنیا کے چند مشکل ترین مقامات پر خدمات انجام دے رہا ہے، تاکہ دنیا کے پسماندہ ترین بچوں کو ضروری خدمات تک رسائی دی جا سکے۔ 190 سے زیادہ ممالک اور خطوں میں ہم ہر بچے کے لئے، ہر جگہ، ہر ایک کے لیے ایک بہتر دنیا کی تعمیر کے لئے کوشاں ہیں۔ پاکستان میں بچوں کی بہتری کے لیے یونیسف کے کام کے بارے میں مزید معلومات کے لئے ملاحظہ کریں: http://www.unicef.org/pakistanمزید معلومات کے لیے رابطہ کیجیے:عبدالسمیع ملک، کمیونی کیشن اسپیشلسٹ، یونیسف پاکستان +92 300 855 6654 - asmalik@unicef.org
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