Islamabad, Pakistan – UN Women, in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Rights, today officially opened the newly refurbished Family Protection and Rehabilitation Center for Women in Islamabad. This significant upgrade aims to provide high-quality, survivor-centered services in a safe, confidential, and dignified environment for women affected by gender-based violence (GBV).
Enhanced Facilities for Comprehensive Support
The renovation, undertaken as part of the Essential Services Package (ESP) initiative with support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia, significantly enhances the center’s capacity. The ESP is designed to deliver a coordinated set of essential, multisectoral services to survivors of violence, adhering to international human rights standards and global best practices.
The upgraded facility now boasts improved infrastructure, private consultation rooms, and integrated service delivery, encompassing medical care, psychological counseling, legal assistance, and safe referrals—all conveniently located under one roof. These enhancements are designed not only to support survivors but also to empower them through every stage of recovery and justice-seeking.
A Crucial Link in the Ecosystem of Support
Mr. Jamshed Kazi, UN Women Country Representative, emphasized the broader impact of this initiative. “The refurbishment of the Family Protection and Rehabilitation Center is not just about infrastructure; it represents a crucial link in a wider ecosystem of support for survivors of gender-based violence,” he stated. “When combined with legal reforms, institutional capacity building, and community engagement, initiatives like this can catalyze systemic change. Our aim is to ensure that every survivor, regardless of where they are in Pakistan, has access to quality, coordinated services that uphold their dignity and rights.”
Strengthening Partnerships to Combat GBV
Federal Minister for Human Rights, Mr. Azam Nazir Tarrar, underscored the importance of strong partnerships in addressing GBV. “We are grateful to UN Women for its continued partnership in strengthening Pakistan’s response to gender-based violence,” said Mr. Tarrar. “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to improving essential services for survivors, particularly the most vulnerable. The upgraded Family Protection and Rehabilitation Center will allow us to respond more effectively, ensuring dignity, safety, and support for every woman and child who seeks help.”
This joint effort is a vital component of a broader national strategy to strengthen Pakistan’s response to GBV. The strategy focuses on survivor-sensitive case management, improved coordination among service providers, and building institutional capacity. UN Women continues to collaborate with federal and provincial authorities to expand access to essential services across the country.
Addressing a Pressing Human Rights Issue
UN Women and the Ministry of Human Rights reaffirm their unwavering commitment to creating a Pakistan where survivors of GBV are supported, protected, and empowered, with full access to justice, healing, and a future free from violence.
Gender-based violence remains a critical human rights issue in Pakistan and globally. According to UN Women, nearly one in three women worldwide are affected. In Pakistan, over 63,000 cases were reported between 2020 and 2023, with domestic violence constituting the majority. These figures likely underrepresent the true scale due to factors such as stigma, fear of retaliation, and limited access to support. GBV not only endangers lives but also severely restricts women’s participation in education, employment, and public life. Effectively addressing this issue requires both robust legal reform and comprehensive practical support services. Facilities like the Family Protection and Rehabilitation Center play a vital role by offering integrated, survivor-focused care, providing safety, dignity, and critical services under one roof to help women and children rebuild their lives.
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