UN Women Regional Director Visits Pakistan

Christine Arab, Regional Director for UN Women Asia and the Pacific, will visit Pakistan from 2–4 December 2025 to strengthen collaboration with government institutions, civil society, development partners, and the private sector on gender equality and women’s empowerment. The visit will begin in Islamabad and conclude in Karachi, featuring high-level engagements across multiple sectors.

During the mission, Ms. Arab will meet senior government officials, including the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus of the National Assembly, the Minister of Law and Justice, and the Chair of the National Commission on the Status of Women. These discussions aim to advance gender-responsive legislation, accelerate legal reforms, and enhance women’s access to justice nationwide.

The visit coincides with the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign. Ms. Arab will join the UN Country Team and partners in Islamabad and Karachi to reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to ending gender-based violence through key events highlighting collective action and awareness.

In Karachi, the Regional Director will observe the survivor-centred response model at the Anti-Rape Crisis Cell (ARCC) and meet with implementing partners to understand frontline efforts addressing GBV. She will also engage with Soorty Enterprises, a Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) signatory, to highlight the role of the private sector in creating gender-responsive workplaces and enhancing women’s economic participation.

The mission will further engage bilateral and multilateral development partners to explore expanded collaboration on women’s economic empowerment, digital inclusion, and policy advocacy, aligning with Pakistan’s commitments to Beijing+30 and Sustainable Development Goal 5.

Through this visit, UN Women seeks to deepen strategic partnerships, showcase program achievements, and ensure that gender equality remains a central focus in Pakistan’s national development and humanitarian priorities. The mission underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in driving sustainable change for women and girls across the country.