The UK, Canada, and UNFPA reaffirm their pleas to put an end to gender-based violence.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE emphasized at the British High Commission event on December 4, 2023, that while progress in safeguarding women and girls from gender-based violence is worth celebrating, it’s crucial not to become complacent. The UK will persist in speaking out against the concerning regression of women’s and girls’ rights and will continue backing grassroots organizations.

UNFPA Country Representative Dr. Luay Shabaneh highlighted their commitment to ending gender-based violence by 2030 under UNFPA’s transformative goals. Stressing the potential that women hold in Pakistan, he expressed that empowering them could lead to the country’s prosperity. Dr. Shabaneh urged for the shaming of perpetrators, support for survivors, investment in health and protection services, and emphasized the need for Pakistan to enhance the execution of laws and elevate the conviction rate for cases involving violence against women and girls.

Canadian High Commissioner Leslie Scanlon emphasized Canada’s global advocacy against sexual and gender-based violence targeting women and girls. In Pakistan, Canada supports over 12 women’s rights organizations, advocating for gender equality. Additionally, the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives aids small-scale projects designed to promote women’s rights on an annual basis.