Lahore, 22 Dec 2023: The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) with support from UN Women and the United States, hosted the 21st Inter-Provincial Ministerial Group (IPMG) meeting in Lahore, during which participants discussed how to use data more effectively in efforts to advance gender equality in Pakistan.
The meeting showcased stakeholders’ dedication and commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women in Pakistan. The shared vision of a more inclusive society, where every woman can thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress, remains at the core of these collective efforts. The IPMG was established in 2009 to enhance coordination on gender equality and women’s empowerment in Pakistan.
Nilofar Bakhtiar, Chairperson, NCSW said, “This assembly serves as a crucial platform, fostering collaboration and initiating positive change on the path to gender equality and the empowerment of women in Pakistan. Together, let’s unite to construct a society where every woman’s voice echoes, and her rights and contributions are valued.”
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Ms. Sharmeela Rassool, Country Representative of UN Women, stated, “The IPMG functions as an inventive platform for devising tailored solutions that cater to the unique needs of Pakistan. An exemplary illustration of this is the National Gender Data Portal. Acknowledging the crucial role of data, we recognize its importance in identifying policy gaps and empowering officials to make informed decisions.”
U.S. Consul General, Lahore, Ms. Kristin Hawkins added, “The National Gender Data Portal, which is financially supported by the United States, is a credible and comprehensive source of gender-related data. Better data collection, analysis, and reporting paves the way for more informed decision making, both by the Government of Pakistan and donors working to eradicate gender-based violence and to empower women.”
Mr. Khalil George, Minister for Human Rights, emphasized that, “As part of the Inter-Provincial Ministerial Group, we stand at the forefront of transformative action. The IPMG functions as a catalyst, igniting innovative strategies and collaborative efforts, steering us towards a future where equality and justice prevail for all.”
