Islamabad : The Ministry of Human Rights on Friday held a get-together to show solidarity with working women. The event marking the working women's day was attended by women Officers and staff members of the Shaheed Benazir Centre for Women, Help Line Service and National Child Protection Centre.
On the occasion, Joint Secretary for Ministry of Human Rights Humaira Azam Khan was the chief guest. She said women empowerment had been on top priority of the ministry, which had ensured their empowerment through legislations and implementations on various levels.
Briefly discussing Legislative measures, the joint secretary said that to empower women of Pakistan, National Policy for development and Empowerment of Women 2002, the National Plan of Action 1998, National Action Plan on Human Rights 2016 and other legislative measures including Harassment at Workplace Act, 2010 have been adopted which encourage women to join formal labour sector jobs.
"With constant efforts of the Government, the political representation of women in Pakistan is also higher and more than 100 women parliamentarians are playing significant role in raising issues and concerns relating to women at public forums and to ensure that women gain equitable access to resources and education," she said.
She said the government had allocated 50 percent share for women in the Prime Minister’s Youth Loan Scheme which reflects the government’s dedication and commitment to provide maximum opportunities to the women. The banking system has launched various loan schemes for short & medium terms wherein women were given the opportunity to participate in promotion and development of economic and agricultural sector.
The Benazir Income Support Programme provides a unique forum for empowerment to the poorest women by redefining their lives and adding dignity, empowerment and meaning to their lives. She added that in the Ministry Day Care Centre has been working efficiently to assist working women.
The participants apprehended difficulties faced by them and gave suggestions to improve situation of Working Women in general. Many of the participants suggested publishing separate news letter and annual awards to recognise the contributions of working women from different parts of the society.