Pakistan Renews Commitment to Disability Inclusion and Women’s Leadership

Pakistan has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to disability inclusion and women’s leadership as Sightsavers Pakistan, in partnership with the National Forum of Women with Disabilities (NFWWD), hosted a national event marking three important milestones: the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), 40 years of Sightsavers’ work in Pakistan, and 15 years of NFWWD’s movement-building and advocacy efforts.

The event brought together a wide range of participants, including senior government officials, development partners, representatives from the European Union, disability rights activists, and women leaders from across the country. The gathering reflected a unified commitment to advancing human rights, amplifying the voices of women with disabilities, and strengthening inclusive development across Pakistan.

Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, who attended as the chief guest, emphasized that Pakistan’s progress depends greatly on how effectively it supports and empowers women with disabilities. He stressed that their leadership is not optional but essential for national development. He also highlighted the need for stronger institutional backing, consistent policy implementation, and youth-focused opportunities that remain accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, Wajiha Qamar, reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive education. She stated that achieving true inclusion requires a whole-of-government approach, with every institution contributing to ensure full participation of women with disabilities in leadership roles, education, and decision-making spaces. Her remarks highlighted the government’s recognition of the role women with disabilities play in shaping a more equitable society.

A core theme of the event was the celebration of two key milestones. First, Sightsavers Pakistan commemorated 40 years of work in disability inclusion, eye health, and community empowerment. Over the decades, the organization has supported national policies, created awareness, and developed programs that center the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. Second, NFWWD celebrated 15 years of building the country’s largest network dedicated entirely to women with disabilities. Beginning as a small advocacy group, it has grown into a powerful national platform influencing legislation, strengthening grassroots voices, and creating leadership opportunities for women with diverse disabilities.

In her remarks, Munazza Gillani, Director for Pakistan and the Middle East at Sightsavers, reaffirmed the organization’s steadfast commitment to gender equity and disability inclusion. She emphasized that empowering women with disabilities is not symbolic but a vital investment toward a more just, equitable, and prosperous Pakistan.

NFWWD CEO Abia Akram highlighted the network’s achievements in advancing the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), supporting national disability frameworks, and contributing to Pakistan’s progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She shared that the organization has worked tirelessly to ensure women with disabilities are not only represented but also respected and meaningfully included in decision-making processes.

Representatives from the European Union also addressed the gathering. Sebastien Lorion, Team Lead for Governance and Human Capital, acknowledged the EU’s long-standing partnership with Pakistan on disability rights and gender equality. He stated that the EU remains committed to supporting initiatives that uplift women with disabilities, as inclusive development is central to its global mission.

The event featured powerful TED-style talks delivered by women with disabilities from across Pakistan. Their stories shared experiences of resilience, leadership, and the challenges faced in social and institutional systems. Their voices highlighted the urgent need for continued investment in accessibility, inclusive policies, and platforms that amplify their leadership.

As the programme concluded, government officials, development partners, and women leaders renewed their commitment to accelerating disability-inclusive development ahead of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event served as a reminder that progress is possible when institutions and communities work together and that the leadership of women with disabilities is central to building a stronger, more inclusive Pakistan.