U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome at the Asia Foundation’s “Reflective Session on Gender Based Violence Reduction”
Ambassador Blome: Dr. Zia ul Haq, Director General of the Islamic Research Institute Thank you; Mr. Rana Abdul Majeed, Prosecutor General of Punjab; Mr. Haris Qayum, Representative of the Asia Foundation; Dr. Samza Fatima; colleagues and friends. Aa- salaam – alai- kum. Good morning.
It is a great honor to join you to reflect on lessons learned and progress made in the effort to combat gender-based violence.
In Pakistan, and around the world, alarming rates of gender-based violence demand our collective action and attention. Women and girls continue to face discrimination, harassment, and violence solely based on their gender. This is a violation of their basic human rights and an affront to the principles of equality and justice that both our countries and the United Nations uphold.
In late 2021, the U.S. government adopted its first ever national strategy on gender equality. The strategy is the first U.S. roadmap for addressing gender inequality both in our domestic and foreign policies. Similarly, Pakistan’s National Security Policy states that “providing women and transgender persons a safe environment at home, in public spaces, and at the workplace are priorities for the country.” The United States and Pakistan share a conviction that promoting gender security means the full integration and participation of women in decision-making, law enforcement, justice, and peacekeeping.
The Asia Foundation, its partners, and allies gathered here today are championing this causeand your baseline survey captures the extent of gender-based violence, identifies service gaps, and provides a blueprint for how to address them. Let us continue to work together to support a Pakistan that is safe, inclusive, and just for all its citizens.
I would like to recognize the International Islamic Research Institute, whose collective experience and extensive scholarship on the nexus between gender equity and Sharia principles is helping root out misinformation and educate the public on the resources available to survivors of gender based violence.
Those in this room are on the front lines responding to gender-based violence crimes and engaging everyday on these issues. Today’s conversations are an important opportunity to highlight best practices for supporting survivors and increase public awareness about the impact these crimes have on individuals and on society.
Our presence here today underscores the United States and Pakistan’s shared interest in promoting gender security as a matter of justice and of prosperity. We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Pakistan in our shared goal of justice for all.
Shukriya and thank you.
Sub-Editor: Ghufran M