By Adnan Hameed
TWA
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In commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD), the Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) convened a significant roundtable discussion themed “Women’s Inclusion in Policy Discourse of Pakistan.” Distinguished speakers, including Ms. Fauzia Viqar, Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace, and former Ambassador Seema Ilahi Baloch, addressed the pivotal role of women in shaping policy across diverse domains.
Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director CSP, aligned the discussion with the IWD 2024 theme, envisioning a gender-equal world free from bias. The Director emphasized the crucial role women play in shaping policies concerning the economy, foreign policy, diplomacy, energy, and media within Pakistan’s unique context.
DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted the necessity of women’s involvement in policy for Pakistan’s socio-economic development. He underscored the importance of addressing unique challenges faced by women, emphasizing that women’s diverse perspectives enrich policy discourse. Ambassador Mahmood acknowledged historical figures and contemporary leaders, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to human rights and gender equality.
Ambassador Seema Ilahi Baloch emphasized the fundamental need for women’s inclusion in policy discourse for gender equality and democracy. Major Wajiha Arhsad shared insights on women’s increasing role in the Pakistani forces and UN peacekeeping, emphasizing that gender is a strength, not a limitation.
Dr. Salma Malik stressed the need for safe social spaces and respect to empower women, acknowledging the challenges faced by women in conflict. Dr. Fareeha Armughan addressed implicit biases in workplaces hindering women’s potential and advocated for societal change through interventions.
Ms. Shanza Faiq highlighted the increased inclusivity of women in Pakistan’s foreign office, calling for more steps to improve women’s representation in all facets. Ms. Fauzia Viqar, in her keynote remarks, emphasized the critical need for gender-friendly economic inclusion and proposed measures for consistent progress.
The roundtable concluded with an interactive discussion, and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the Board of Governors, ISSI, presented the Institute’s memento to Ms. Fauzia Viqar. A group photo marked the end of the insightful event.
