Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gul Bahar Khan and National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) Chairperson Nilofar Bakhtiar on Saturday announced establishment of the Gilgit-Baltistan Commission on the Status of Women.
The initiative is set to transform the lives of women in the region. At the event held at the GB House in Islamabad on Saturday, Chief Minister Khan said, "The establishment of the women commission is a historic milestone for the women of Gilgit-Baltistan. Today, marks a great success for those who have tirelessly worked for decades to create a more enabling environment for all segments of our population, especially the vulnerable."
The newly formed Gilgit-Baltistan Commission on the Status of Women, as highlighted by Chairperson Bakhtiar, is expected to play a pivotal role in protecting women from violence and promoting their economic empowerment.
"The GB Commission on the Status of Women will serve as a guardian for the rights of women and help them achieve economic independence," she affirmed.
This move comes after the formulation of a law for the GB Commission and its subsequent approval by the GB Assembly last year. Ms Bakhtiar expressed her gratitude towards NCSW, its national and UN partners, and Dilshad Bano, the minister for women development in GB, for their unwavering support in making this vision a reality.
Ms. Bakhtiar stated, "We believe that by working together, we can make significant progress in securing a safer and more equitable environment for all. NCSW is committed to strengthening these commissions to ensure the protection of women's rights."
She concluded by thanking all NCSW partners and the NCSW team for their relentless efforts and recognized the invaluable support provided by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) throughout the entire process.
Dr Luay Shabany, country representative of UNFPA, also extended his congratulations on the establishment of the commission.