First gender parity report in the works

National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), with support from UNFPA, UN Women, Group Development Pakistan and the Embassy of the Netherlands, has concluded a two-day national consultation to finalise a unified framework for Pakistan's first National Gender Parity Report, to be launched on International Women's Day, March 8, 2026.

For the first time, Pakistan's gender data will be synchronised at the national level, aligned with international standards. The move is expected to improve Pakistan's ranking in the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report and strengthen national policies on women's empowerment.

Federal Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar called gender discrimination the biggest obstacle to progress, stressing that development cannot be achieved by excluding half the population.

He said women's rights must go beyond speeches to practical action, as women are already excelling in many fields. He assured full government support to integrate the new framework into laws, policies and institutions.

NCSW Chairperson Ume Laila Azhar said credible and timely data is vital to present the right image of Pakistan to the world. She urged federal and provincial governments to become responsive partners, providing data that meets international standards. She added that without reliable information, policies cannot address gaps in education, health, political participation and economic empowerment.

The consultation concluded with consensus on a lean, sustainable and comparable framework. In her vote of thanks, NCSW Secretary Humaira Zia Mufti acknowledged all partners and appreciated Minister Tarar's commitment to advancing reforms. This historic initiative marks the beginning of Pakistan's journey towards credible, standardised gender reporting and long-term accountability.