16 Days of Activism: Stakeholders join heads to end gender-based violence in GB

GILGIT: The Social Welfare & Women Development Department of Gilgit Baltistan, Aga Khan Rural Support Program (AKRSP), and various stakeholders have come together to address the pressing issue of gender-based violence in the region during the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

A meeting was held in Gilgit in this regard on Monday to discuss strategies and programs aimed at raising awareness and combatting gender-based violence in Gilgit Baltistan. According to a statement issued after the meeting, the collaborative efforts of the Women Development Department and AKRSP highlight the commitment to creating a safe and inclusive society for all.

During the meeting, it was decided that a series of programs and activities would be conducted throughout the 16 Days of Activism campaign. These initiatives will involve engaging with various stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society organizations, and local residents.

Through workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns, the aim is to educate and empower individuals to actively participate in ending gender-based violence.

The statement said that the Social Welfare and Women Development Department and AKRSP recognize the importance of a multi-faceted approach in addressing this issue. By working together, it said, they aim to foster a culture of respect, equality, and non-violence within the community.

The statement said that the collaboration would also focus on providing support services and resources to survivors of gender-based violence, ensuring their well-being and access to justice.

“We are committed to creating a society where every individual feels safe and respected,” said Secretary of the Social Welfare & Women Development Department Fida Hussain. “Through our collaboration with AKRSP and other stakeholders, we aim to raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, and empower individuals to take a stand against gender-based violence,” Hussain added.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign that runs from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. International Day of Disabled Persons will also be celebrated on December 03 as part of the Awareness Campaign. It serves as a platform to advocate for the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls.