USAID’s HumAhang Project hosts transformative conference on human rights and sustainable peace
Celina Ali
Islamabad: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) HumAhang project, implemented by the Center for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), successfully concluded a two-day conference on “Human Rights as the Foundation for Sustainable Peace”.
The conference brought together policymakers, academics, activists, and civil society leaders to address pressing human rights issues in Pakistan. Participants emphasized the critical role of human rights in fostering peace, inclusion, and social justice, exploring topics such as:
- Access to Education: Ensuring equal access to quality education for all, particularly vulnerable groups.
- Rights of Vulnerable Groups: Protecting the rights of women, children, minorities, and persons with disabilities.
- Gender-Based and Conflict-Related Violence: Addressing the challenges posed by violence and promoting justice for marginalized communities.
Speakers highlighted actionable steps to advance human rights in Pakistan, including:
- Raising public awareness and promoting education on human rights.
- Strengthening legislative frameworks and institutions to support human rights.
- Increasing investment in education and promoting inclusive development.
- Enhancing the role of civil society in democratic governance and promoting social equity.
Sindh Minister for Women Development Shaheena Shair Ali emphasized, “Human rights are the foundation for a peaceful and tolerant society. Legislative actions must align with international human rights commitments.”
Vice Chancellor SALU, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yousuf Khushk, highlighted the role of education in preventing human rights violations and promoting democratic values.
Representing HumAhang, Haseeb Iqbal stressed the importance of sustained collaboration, stating, “Collective efforts by all stakeholders are crucial to transforming human rights commitments into concrete action.”
The event concluded with a powerful theatre performance, depicting societal challenges and urging continued advocacy for human rights.
HumAhang, a project of USAID, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships that promote social equity and peace, marking a significant milestone in achieving the program’s objectives of advancing peace, social cohesion, and inclusive development across Pakistan’s most vulnerable regions.
