Major Sania Safdar of the Pakistan Army has been awarded the '2023 - Certificate of Recognition' by the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for her efforts in promoting gender equality. She is the first female UN peacekeeper to receive this honor.
The award recognizes Major Safdar's contributions to advancing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS). UNFICYP cited her work in the Field Technology Section and her efforts to promote gender representation within the military as key factors in the selection.
Major Safdar expressed that receiving this certificate as a peacekeeper is an honor for both herself and the mission. She stated that it demonstrates their commitment to promoting gender equality.
The Pakistan Army views this achievement as evidence of its professional capabilities and ongoing efforts to foster gender equality and inclusion within its ranks. This recognition highlights Pakistan's contribution to international peacekeeping missions and its commitment to gender parity in military service.