Balochistan establishes technical advisory board for disabled women

QUETTA: Balochistan set up its first “Technical Advisory Board” (TAG) for gender-based violence (GBV) service providers focused on women with disabilities.

The board will oversee the implementation of the National Action Plan on Human Rights, with a focus on disability inclusion.

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It will coordinate with government departments, hospitals, and other organisations to improve access and remove barriers in GBV services.

Officials from government, civil society, development partners, and disability rights groups attended the launch. The Social Welfare Department Secretary said the board aims to ensure people with disabilities have access to justice and protection without obstacles.

Supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), a disability accessibility assessment will review GBV services across health, law enforcement, legal aid, shelters, crisis centres, and helplines.

The goal is to identify gaps and propose solutions.

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The Director of Programmes at STEP Abia Akram said that women and girls with disabilities face high risks of violence and that the initiative is meant to ensure that protection services meet their needs.

Following the assessment, STEP, UNFPA and the government of Balochistan will develop an action plan to improve inclusivity and service delivery for with disabilities.