Law ministry in collaboration with UN launches 'TAHAFFUZ' protecting women from violence.

ISLAMABAD -- UN Women in collaboration with the Ministry of Law and Justice launched the initiation of a programme 'Preventing and Protecting Women from Violence through Enhanced Access to Justice and Services, 'TAHAFFUZ'.

The programme, funded by Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) of the US Department of State, focuses on preventing violence against women and enhancing their access to justice will be implemented in five districts of Punjab and Sindh, as well as the Islamabad Capital Territory from 2022 till 2024.

UN Women Deputy Country Representative Jacqui Ketunuti welcomed the distinguished participants and introduced the TAHAFFUZ programme to the audience.

She said, 'Building on the successes of the previous phase of this project, UN Women will address the issue of violence against women (VAW) through a holistic approach, targeting all the key stakeholders from government institutions, justice and security sector officials, as well as civil society.

Using gender and social inclusion strategies, the programme will ensure VAW is addressed from all angles and institutions that facilitate women in accessing justice are strengthened to deliver accessible, quality and gender-responsive services.'

The programme aims to tackle the issue of violence against women (VAW) in a holistic way through evidence-based legislation and policy interventions, strengthening capacity of duty bearers, enhancing coordination and increasing awareness.

While addressing the National Launch Event of the Programme, INL Director Lori Antolinez said, 'The U.S. government is awarding $1.5 million to UN Women to help Pakistani women better access justice and legal services via TAHAFFUZ.

He said this continues years of INL's support and partnership with the Pakistani government, Pakistani citizens, and UN Women. In 2016, INL was the sole funder for Phase One of the UN Women program, providing $3.5 million.

Gender inclusivity and women's empowerment in law enforcement and criminal justice is a top priority for INL in Pakistan. INL supports programs to improve women's access to justice through improved law enforcement response to gender-based violence. More and better...