Zubair Qureshi
Speakers at an International Women’s Day (IWD) gala called for collective efforts to invest in women’s advancement and well-being which will guarantee a progressive and tolerant society.
The event was jointly hosted jointly by the UN and the Embassy of Denmark.
UN Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya while welcoming the women participants and partners said, “When women overcome challenges, achieve gender equality, and fully participate in society, everyone wins.”
During the gala, which was hosted at the Residence of the Ambassador of Denmark, representatives of the government, ambassadors, representatives of the UN agencies and leaders from the private sector pledged gender equality and empowerment of women.
“As we celebrate women this year, we must put a special emphasis on their economic empowerment. We will spotlight the significant positions and impactful contributions made by women and girls in reshaping the economic terrain, said Mr. LansanaWonneh, UN Women Country Representative at the Gala which showcased speeches, video screenings, and the debut of a women empowerment song.
British High Commissioner Ms Jane Marriott also attended the event and paid rich tributes to the Pakistani women’s talent and leadership. Ms Jane Marriott, who has recently met Punjab’s new chief minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Lahore, said she was convinced the Pakistani girls had the potential to become the future leaders and take the country forward towards progress and sustainability.
Women empowerment is an important area the British government is working with the Pakistani government and we believe true development would remain elusive until we fully utilize women’s potential, she said.
Deputy Head of Denmark Mission, Peter Emil Nielsen while talking to Pakistan Observer termed it an honour to host the event at the green lawns of the Danish residence.
We have gathered here to celebrate women, their amazing abilities and achievements across Pakistan, he said , adding it reaffirmed the Denmark government’s commitment in longstanding partnership with Pakistan in diverse areas including gender equality, girls education, rights, green energy etc.
It may be mentioned here that Pakistan has put efforts towards gender equality and women empowerment over the years, and has passed a number of pro-women legislations. Women’s labour force participation doubled from 13 per cent in 1992 to 22.5 per cent in 2018, but it remains among the lowest rates in South Asia and in the world. Most women workers are concentrated in the informal economy while women’s key role in agriculture remains undervalued and, often, unpaid or underpaid.
Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) NilofarBakhtiar said, “As we gather to celebrate International Women’s Day, it is with immense pride and gratitude that we acknowledge the remarkable contributions of women in Pakistan and across the globe.”
