Islamabad: A national dialogue in Islamabad has called for stronger actions to end child, early, and forced marriages across Pakistan. The event, organized by the Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) with support from the U.S. Department of State and Save the Children, gathered key stakeholders to discuss the pressing social issue. The dialogue emphasized the need for a collective effort involving government, civil society, and local partners.
The event featured panel discussions moderated by Ms. Farhat Ali Sheikh and Ms. Munazza Ali and included influential figures such as Dr. Manizeh Bano, Ms. Afreen Kanwal, and Commissioner Salahudin Norzai, among others. They discussed strategies and shared insights on tackling child marriages, particularly in regions like Sindh and Balochistan.
Mr. Khurram Gondal, Country Director of Save the Children, highlighted the importance of consistent and committed efforts beyond mere policy implementation. He praised local NGOs and district governments for their engagement and reaffirmed ongoing support from Save the Children.
At the event, Mr. Jamil Asgher Bhatti from SPO shared concerning statistics from Sindh and Balochistan, where nearly 60 percent of respondents reported being married before the age of 18. This data underscores the urgent need for action to protect young girls from early marriages.
Senator (R) Javed Jabbar emphasized the empowerment of girls, referencing trailblazing women leaders in Pakistan’s history. He advocated for local resolve and commitment, stating that efforts to protect children should not rely solely on foreign funding.
Ms. Arifa Mazhar, Chief Executive of SPO, closed the event by urging a shift from project-based approaches to sustained, community-driven efforts. She called the initiative a collective mission and encouraged continued collaboration among stakeholders.
The event ended with a joint commitment from government bodies, parliamentarians, and civil society to enhance legal protections, expand awareness campaigns, and ensure a safe and educated future for every child in Pakistan.