“Aawaz II shows what real change looks like at the grassroots,” observed a member of the KP Provincial Forum (PF) participating in the field visit to Abbottabad convened under the Aawaz II Programme by its lead in KP, #omarasgharkhanfoundation in collaboration with its district partner, #sungidevelopmentfoundation.

Six PF members including Secretary KP Commission on the Status of Women, Deputy Secretary, Social Welfare Department and civil society representatives interacted with AawazII’s District Forum members to discuss field-based experiences and explore ways of strengthening engagement with provincial stakeholders for protecting the rights of women, children, transgender persons, minorities and persons with disabilities.

District Social Welfare and Child Protection officials expressed their appreciation of #AawazII’s inclusive, community-led approach. Community members shared evidence of challenging gender-based violence, child marriage and harmful practices in District Abbottabad. The need for implementing PWD job quotas, making public buildings accessible and utilizing development funds was discussed.

“The programme’s success in changing mindsets is exceptional as it is the most challenging barrier to overcome” remarked Ms. Shazia Atta, Secretary, KP Commission on the Status of Women. The PF delegation appreciated the capacity and commitment of #AawazII’s community members and agreed that their inclusion in government-notified district committees will make these structures more effective in pursuing protection and human rights.