“The speaker thanked provincial legislators for their …the convention, Mr Ali Imran, Event Manager from Ace Production, Ms. Rubina Rauf from Lok Virsa and Mr. Attique Ullah Khan

“The speaker thanked provincial legislators for their active participation in the convention. She was of the view that the women MPs actively participated in the working sessions during the convention, which formed the basis of the landmark resolution adopted at the conclusion of the convention”

The News 8th June 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF ACRONYMS

1

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

2

BACKGROUND & RATIONALE

3

DESIGN & METHODOLOGY

5

CONVENTION PROCEEDINGS DAY 2 INAUGURAL SESSION

- Formal Welcome by the Secretary Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) Nafisa Shah MNA

- Policy Statement by Nawabzada Malik Ahmed Ali Khan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

- Keynote Address by Asma Jehangir - Inaugural Speech by the Speaker National Assembly and Patron

WPC, Dr. Fehmida Mirza - Address by the Chief Guest Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani, Prime Minister

of Pakistan - Video Presentation and official song dedicated to marking the

convention inaugural scripted by Shamoon Hashmi NCWP Chief Coordinator and performed by Tina Sani

WORKING SESSIONS

- Working Session 1: Women and Conflict Resolution - Working Session 2: Women and Security - Working Session 3: Effects of Conflict on Women - Plight of

Internally Displaced Women

6

6

8 8

11 15

DAY 3 SECOND PLENARY SESSION

- Address by Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek - Overview of Peace and Security - Senator Nilofar Bakhtiar - Way to Economic Empowerment; A Case Study of Benazir Income

Support Program (BISP) – Ms. Speech. Farzana Raja, Member National Assembly (MNA)/ Chairperson BISP

- Legislating for Empowerment: Harassment at Workplace Bill – Ms. Yasmeen Rehman, MNA/Advisor to the Federal Ministry of Women Development

19

PRESIDENCY SPEECH Speech by the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari on The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation WORKING SESSIONS

- Working Session 4: Engaging Media for Peace - Working Session 5: Building Networks for Peace - Working Session 6: Role of Women Caucuses In Legislation and

Oversight of Peace and Security Issues CLOSING SESSION

- Way Forward --- Keynote Speech by Shahnaz Wazir Ali Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Sector (based upon the recommendations of the six sessions)

- Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, Chairperson Drafting Committee Presenting Declaration

- Speech by Jan Jamali Depty Chairman Senate - Closing Speech by Speaker National Assembly and Patron WPC Dr.

Fehmida Mirza - Speech by Mir Jan Muhammad Jamali, Deputy Chairman Senate - Closure of Convention and Vote of Thanks by Secretary WPC Nafisa

Shah MNA

20

20

21 23 25

28

ANNEXURES

Annexure 1 : Program Agenda Annexure 2 : Convention Speeches Annexure 3 : Working Session Registration Annexure 4 : Working Session Presentations and Papers Annexure 5 : Convention Newsletters Annexure 6 : Media Clippings

31 31 35 75 81

117 141

1

LIST OF ACRONYMS AJ&K Azad Jammu & Kashmir ANP Awami National Party BISP Benazir Income Support Programme CEDAW Convention for the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination against

Women CSOs Civil Society’s Organizations FATA Federally Administered Tribal Areas FIR First Information Reports GB Gilgit-Baltistan GoP Government of Pakistan HRCP Human Rights Commission of Pakistan IDPs Internally Displaced Persons IDW Internally Displaced Women MDGs Millennium Development Goals MMR Maternal Mortality Rate MNA Member of National Assembly MLA Member of Legislative Assembly MoWD Ministry of Women’s Development MP Member Parliament MPA Member of Provincial Assembly MQM Muttahida Quami Movement NCWP National Commission of Women Parliamentarians PATA Provincially Administered Tribal Areas PDMA Provincial Disaster Management Authority PLSP Pakistan Legislative Strengthening Project PML-N Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz PPP Pakistan People’s Party SAARC South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SDPD Strengthening Democracy Through Parliamentary Development UNDP United Nations Development Program UNIFEM United Nations Development Fund for Women WPC Women Parliamentary Caucus

2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS SIGNED BY Mr. Shamoon Hashmi, National Caucus of Women Parliamentarians (NCWP) Chief Coordinator This convention would not have been possible without the essential and gracious support of many renowned individuals: The personal support and interest of the Patron of WPC. Fehmida Mirza and all the members of the WPC working council who supervised and stood by the entire staff all along the leadership and guidance of Coordinator WPC Mr. Shamoon Hashmi, NCWP Chief Coordinator Ms. Huma Chughtai and the entire staff of WPC, es:pecially Syed Wasim Kazi, Fatima Hashmi, Aamina Javed, Farheen Khalid, Syed Ghulam Abbas, Syed Shahab Zaidi, Qari Shehzad and Rizwan Mawbool whose timeless hard work made this convention possible. We also acknowledge the support of the following donors: PLSP of USAID, Mr. Farhaan Sabeeh, Programme Director and Ms. Marvi Sarmad from UNDP/SDPD, Ms. Alice Shackelford, Country Programme Director UNIFEM, Mr. Saghir Bukhari also through the courtesy of UNIFEM, Mr. Imran Rizvi of KZR and his team for facilitating the convention, Mr. Gregor Euste and Ms. Saima Jasam from Mr. Henrich Boel Foundation. We would also like to acknowledge the efforts of the following Members of the National Assembly: Mr. Karamat Niazi, Secretary National Assembly; Mr. Syed Munawar Abbas, Additional Secretary National Assembly; Mr. Feroz Khan, Director General IR; Mr. Anjum Mughal, Director General PR; Mr. Shahid Jillani, Joint Secretary Administration; Mr. Amir Khan, Deputy Secretary; respective officers and sections of the National Assembly, Mr. Tariq Bhatti, Director Automation, for establishing and supervising an efficient convention secretariat; and Mr. Taj Bangash, Mr. Amanullah and their entire team of Special Branch (Security). We also wish to thank Mr. Zafar Sultan, cameraman, for the outstanding coverage of the convention, Mr Ali Imran, Event Manager from Ace Production, Ms. Rubina Rauf from Lok Virsa and Mr. Attique Ullah Khan Khattak from Khiva Restaurant for the catering. We would like to acknowledge the entire team of ushers provided by SDPD. Finally, we are grateful to the Capital Development Authority, the Islamabad Police and the Interior Ministry for helping to make this convention a success

3

BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE The people of Pakistan continue to suffer from the effects of instability, caused by tensions on the country’s eastern borders and the on-going hostilities that result from militancy on the western front. The social, economic and security implications are felt by the entire country. Such a situation demands actions for peace that will not only ensure an end to violence but also provide a sustainable base for development and progress, with special consideration for the vulnerable sections of society, particularly women and children who are often the worst affected by conflict. Action is essential in view of the fact that “peace” is not merely the absence of disorder, war and unrest but an environment that encourages creativity, a better quality of life and a space for all persons to enjoy their fundamental rights. Ensuring peace calls for women to play a meaningful role at all levels of decision making, especially in matters related to peace building and security. The history of Pakistan testifies to the fact that historically women leaders have been in the forefront in pursuing the ideals of peace and progress in the region. What is more, the continued success of Pakistan’s current democratic order, despite the many upheavals, proves that the cherished legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, namely reconciliation, has answers to many of our problems. Women parliamentarians, therefore, must be an integral part in all decision-making processes concerning peace, security and reconciliation. The February 18, 2008 elections not only saw the return of over 22 percent women to parliament but also the election of the first woman Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan. The substantial presence of women MNAs provides a unique opportunity for women to contribute towards making parliament gender sensitive and to promote women’s rights and empowerment both at the national and international levels. The Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC), established at the national level, provides a forum beyond party lines to build a consensus on priority issues concerning women. It highlights a women’s perspective within and outside the parliament to ensure that gender concerns are adequately addressed through legislation, policies and programmes. The National Convention of Women Parliamentarians (NCWP) is a similar attempt to bring together women parliamentarians from all parts of the country to join hands in the pursuit of a joint vision for the national agenda. The Convention will also strengthen meaningful partnership with civil society. At the same time, it aims to create networks at the regional level with women parliamentarians from neighboring countries. The focus of discussion during the Convention will be around the Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation. Hence, by taking up such a crucial agenda for discussion, the Convention, towards the end, is expected to bring out recommendations for a way forward in creating national consensus on the role of women parliamentarians in peace, security and reconciliation

4

Convention Objectives To:

1. Strengthen the role of women parliamentarians in the ongoing geo-political situation

2. Create a community of women leaders across party lines that holds together on issues of national concern

3. Raise a strong and united voice for peace and stability in the region 4. Create a network of women parliamentarians with a common agenda for

women’s empowerment and participation at all levels of decision making 5. Involve civil society in the development and progress of women

5

DESIGN & METHODOLOGY Preparation and coordination meetings were held between KZR and WPC representatives to agree on the convention’s scope, objectives and process design. The role of KZR was to facilitate and document convention proceedings as well as to provide logistical advice on matters such as room layout, floor plan, stationery etc. Keeping in view the profile and audience of this event, great care was taken to agree on a clear set of objectives for each working session in a way that would motivate honorable members and delegates to remain committed. Discussions on process included finalization of working session challenge statements, methodology generating issues and recommendations, and agreement on report structure. Sessions were interactive and allowed time for dialogue and question and answers. Chair and discussant guidelines were finalized and a dry run with WPC colleagues was conducted to build consensus on process. To ensure timely finalization of recommendations for keynote address on day three by Ms. Shanaz Wazir Ali, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Social Sector a dedicated rapporteur was located within the secretariat to coordinate and work on drafting the speech. Honorable members and delegates were provided with a convention kit including a workshop folder containing the agenda1 and related background documents.

1 Annexure 1 : Program Agenda

6

CONVENTION PROCEEDINGS DAY 2 INAUGURAL SESSION The National Convention for Women Parliamentarians commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran. This was followed by Ms. Nighat Rizvi, official anchor, welcoming the panellists for the inaugural session. Formal Welcome by Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah MNA2 Ms. Nafisa Shah began the formal welcome by sharing her dream of a unified women’s movement under the august sponsorship of government. Reminding the honorable members and delegates of the efforts of great women of the past - Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto - she quoted instances from their lives of how they defied enslaving traditions, resisted dictators and promoted peace and reconciliation. Deriving her inspiration from Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Ms Shah paid tribute to her devotion to the cause of democracy. While her politics of reconciliation led her on an unpredictable journey marked by both triumphs and failures, Mohtarma always preferred dialogue and yet refused to capitulate to dictators and terrorism. Inspired by Mohtarma’s peace-oriented strategy, Ms Shah affirmed that a secure and peaceful tomorrow could only be realized through a united women movement. At the end of her speech, Ms Shah shared her recommendations for strengthening the caucus; this would include grooming a community of women leaders who would raise a united voice to advocate women’s development regardless of party background. She also suggested that effective networking among women parliamentarians which is all open to accommodate willing sections of society was essential to our working together. Policy Statement by Nawabzada Malik Ahmed Ali Khan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs3 Mr. Khan congratulated the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus for taking the initiative in holding the conference and highlighted Mohtarma Benzir Bhutto’s philosophy of reconciliation: “to create a socially cohesive, politically stable and economically vibrant society in Pakistan”. Mr Khan added that Pakistan had achieved many milestones in the course of its pursuit of women’s empowerment with the result that women now play a larger role in the political, economic, social, cultural and administrative spheres of national life. Mr. Khan stated that through their commitment and perseverance women are capable of playing a central role in peace building and reconciliation. He added that Pakistan had committed itself to many international peace building initiatives, including the World CEDAW held in Beijing 1995 and the SAARC Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children. In the end, he

2 Annexure 2 : Convention Speeches


7

acknowledged the role of civil society and the media in raising awareness of peace issues and suggested that all segments of society should contribute to bringing about a peaceful society. Keynote Address by Asma Jehangir, Chairperson, HRCP4 Ms. Asma Jahangir highlighted the part played by women activists in securing special seats for women in the National Assembly. The formation of women’s caucuses was a very important step and she assured them of the full cooperation of civil society. United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 signified the earliest recognition of the unique impact of armed conflicts on women and of the role they could play in peace building and conflict prevention. Ms. Jahangir also addressed the need for a healing touch in Balochistan where sectarian and ethnic conflicts are many. She stressed that it is often women who face the worst consequences. An institute for peace building and reconciliation should be established that will bring women of different nationalities together to share their experiences of conflict resolution. Along with women parliamentarians, civil society should play a major role in the peace building process. Inaugural Speech by the Speaker National Assembly and Patron WPC Dr. Fehmida Mirza5 Dr. Fehmida Mirza emphasized the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to women’s empowerment and the contribution made by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to setting the women’s rights agenda through the initiation of the National Plan of Action and CEDAW Convention. Currently, women have 22 percent of the seats in the national legislature. The formation of the WPC reflects the fact that opportunities are now available to women across the country. Women and children are the first to be affected by the problems of human security and displacement brought about by natural disasters. To address this issue, women need to be brought into decision making so that they can help devise strategies and forge effective networks. Address by the Chief Guest Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani, Prime Minister of Pakistan6 Mr. Gillani pointed out that women are central to the political decision making process; their active involvement in peace building and reconciliation will help bring about sustainable peace. He also appreciated the commitment of women parliamentarians to addressing the challenges women face by passing gender sensitive laws that ensure equal rights through economic, social, legal and political measures. Mr. Gillani noted that discriminatory laws were being amended to protect and encourage women to join the private and public sectors without fear of harassment. Women parliamentarians should work across party lines to strengthen the peace and prosperity of Pakistan and of the region as a whole.

4Annexure 2 : Convention Speeches



8

At the close of the inaugural session a video presentation and official song scripted by Mr. Shamoon Hashmi, NCWP Chief Coordinator and performed by Tina Sani, well known composer and singer marked the convention inauguration WORKING SESSIONS At the end of the inaugural session, the facilitator requested honourable members and delegates to join their respective pre-selected groups as follows:

Working Session 1: Women and Conflict Resolution Working Session 2: Women and Security Working Session 3: Effects of Conflict on Women - Plight of Internally

Displaced Women Working session proceedings Working Session 1 Women and Conflict Resolution

“Do women really have a role in conflict resolution? What role can women parliamentarians play in this regard?”

The theme focused on women as the primary victims of conflict and therefore the major stakeholders in conflict resolution. However, their role has yet to be fully recognized as they remain excluded from reconciliation and reconstruction processes. Past experience suggests that whenever women have become a party to the peace process, successful agreements have been achieved. These have worked to bring about justice, fight corruption, demand accountability and maintain transparency in such a way that “good governance” paves the way for the reconciliation process. This group was chaired by Ghazala Gola, Minister for Women Development, Balochistan. Discussants included the Farzana Bari, Gender Expert, Anees Haroon, Chairperson NCSW, Honourable Rosy Senanayake, Member of Parliament from Sri Lanka, Bushra Gohar, MNA ANP and Shazia Aurangzeb, MPA ,PML-N (Absent) Summaries of discussant speeches and presentations7 are as follows: Dr. Farzana Bari, Gender Expert stated that in our societies women are more vulnerable than men to sexual violence, trafficking, kidnapping etc. For this reason, they can play a strategic role in preventing conflict and building peace. There are “masculine” style women who support patriarchal control over women's lives and mobility. Women parliamentarians can play a major role in countering religious militancy and other threats to security and should push for legislation that reverses inequalities and injustices. As a result of UN Security Council Resolutions 1820 and 1325, women parliamentarians can ensure that women's concerns are integrated in conflict resolution and reconstruction measures. Dr. Bari concluded by outlining the key challenges faced by women parliamentarians: male dominated patriarchal political parties and legislative structures. The only way to build their own power base

7 Annexure 4 : Working Session Presentations and Papers

9

is to form partnerships and networks with peace organizations and activists at all levels Anees Haroon, Chairperson NCSW highlighted the fact that men are responsible for conflicts while women face the effects: sexual violence, abduction, rape etc. While women lack a role in decision and peace making processes, they have proved their value to the peace process whenever they have had a chance to participate. The Women’s Action Forum has brought women from opposing political parties onto a neutral platform. Women parliamentarians must be proactive in regional peace building and must ensure that women from conflict ridden areas are involved in the restructuring process. UN Security Council Resolution 1325 must be implemented. Hon. Rosy Senanayake, MP from Sri Lanka shared her experience of thirty years of civil war and its effects on almost all citizens, with women being the most affected as a result of poverty, societal discrimination and economic instability. UN Security Council Resolution 1325 has made women an integral part of peace building measures. The Government of Sri Lanka now ensures implementation of existing laws in accordance with the resolution and plans to take further measures. Bushra Gohar, MNA, ANP focused on the constant state of conflict that prevails in Pakistan as the result of militancy. Women suffer the most and therefore need to be included in all peace making processes. The actions of government and civil society are crucial to making this happen. Global experts must be called upon to advise government on how to enact legislation. Chairperson’s summary: Women undoubtedly face many challenges, especially women in our region. They need to muster up the confidence and courage to change the status quo. Networks and partnerships with activists and peace organizations can be very helpful. Issues Raised

Through generations of conditioning, women have preferred the role of caretaker.

Transformation into “masculine women” occurs when women are given important roles in government but because of the dominant masculine and patriarchal nature of society, are pressurized to behave like men. They therefore lack the room to grow.

There is a lack of peace within countries, communities, genders etc Extremism is the nation’s biggest threat. The divide between the “haves” and

“have nots” causes immense violence. Women need to network nationally and internationally to get rid of the many

discriminatory laws against them. Women cannot find their voice because they have no power base. As long as violence against women continues, women have little hope of

feeling secure. (No justice = no protection = no peace) There is a need to develop a regional agenda to change the mindset of

Pakistani women in order to unify them to work towards common goals. Key stakeholders in peace agreements have often been women in

government and they need to ensure legitimacy of their leadership There is a need to eradicate terrorism at every level, nationally and

internationally. Women have to play a more active role in taking power and setting standards

of conduct internationally The Election Commission must have women’s participation.

10

Problems that women face in casting their votes in rural areas must be dealt with.

While women make up 48 per cent of the population of Pakistan, they still lack a peace-making role

General Recommendations

Female MPAs should also be given a position in decision making. All women related issues should go to parliament through the Caucus. There should be 33 per cent reserved seats for women. An international peace and security committee including women

parliamentarians should be set up. Female parliamentarians should be made more autonomous in their

decisions. Implementation on 10% quota should be made on an immediate basis. Female technical education should be prioritized. Women should contribute to making the “Annual Development Programme”

so that they monitor the budgetary allocation on female education. Awareness raising campaigns should be initiated at the district level. Poverty alleviation programmes should be initiated. Parliamentarians should take the lead in educating women on gender issues. Women should be included in sectors like banking and micro financing Implementation of laws should be confirmed. Action should be sought against those who are responsible for not allowing

women to cast their votes. Women should be empowered beyond the scope of their party affiliation Law enforcement should be ensured across district levels. Women parliamentarians’ participation in their ministries should be

encouraged. The number of female judges in the supreme and high courts should be

increased. Corruption in education should be eliminated. All female Members of the National Assembly should maximize their

effectiveness by presenting combined resolutions on women issues. Women parliamentarians on reserved seats should be provided with a

constituency and be held accountable Women from the minorities should be given representation in all institutions Political parties should give tickets to minority women to fight general

elections. Each party should have a reserve quota for women of between 30 and 50 per

cent. Women should be appointed to the post of patwari in the Revenue

Department, where women’s representation is virtually negligible. Women’s capacity building programmes should be initiated. Women should underline the point that they are not a minority. Parliamentarian development funds should be planned according to

governments gender responsive budgeting commitments Education standards in rural areas should be equivalent to the level in rural

areas. Non-implementation of decisions made by women parliamentarians should be

reversed.

11

Key Recommendations

Women parliamentarians should have an oversight role in the peace building process that ensures justice and human rights in reconciliation and post conflict reconstructing.

Women’s role in conflict prevention as well as in conflict resolution should be promoted.

There should be a shift away from "state security" to "people’s security" and legislation and policies should be formulated against inequality and injustice, the root causes of conflict.

Legislation should be enacted that protects women against violence, kidnapping, trafficking, harassment and other sources of harm exacerbated in conflict situations.

Parliamentarians should build networks with peace organizations and activists at the national, regional and international levels for the purpose of attaining enduring peace.

The 10 per cent quota should be implemented, especially in law enforcement agencies, including police, security agencies and the judiciary.

Working Session 2 Women and Security issues “What is the role of women parliamentarians in ensuring implementation of legislation

(existing & new) that guarantees women’s protection?” Women are considered to be the main stabilizers in conflict situations; however, primitive mind-sets and their preconceived positioning hamper their creativity. The inadequacy of legislation for women’s protection and its implementation renders women open to different types of violence. Organizations working for women focusing on legislation against domestic violence and workplace harassment are steps in the right direction. The role of the police is critical to women’s empowerment. Women police stations are essential so that women can feel free to register their grievances. Empowered and expanded women’s police stations can certainly play a vital role in advancing women’s healthy participation in society. The group was chaired by Shehla Raza, Deputy Speaker Sindh Assembly. Discussants included Senator Shirala Malik,(MQM, Shawkat Ara Begum, MP Bangladesh, Ranee S Saral, MP India, Tauqir Fatima Bhutto, MoWD Sindh, Saira Tarar, MNA, PML N, Hina Jilani, Expert and Saba Khatak, Member Social Sector, Planning Commission of Pakistan. Discussant speeches and presentations8 are as follows: Senator Shirala Malik (MQM)’s speech focused on the duty of the government and civil society to ensure women’s security by reinforcing existing laws, including the Women’s Harassment Bill, the Domestic Violence Bill and the National Plan of Action. Since, these laws provide only basic protection to women and most of them are not adequately enforced, they need to be revised and supplemented with better legislation. International commitments e.g. the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, need to be implemented in letter and spirit. Misuse of electronic media, e.g. illegal FM radio stations propagating violence against women, is an issue along with many


12

others that needs to be addressed. Gender sensitization of men is critical to achieving women’s emancipation and empowerment. Shawkat Ara Begum, MP (Bangladesh) spoke about inclusion of women in all spheres of life if peace, security and stability are to be consolidated. Women are denied participation in conflict resolution wherein they are the major stakeholders. Women’s participation in policy and decision making roles, especially in parliament, public and private sectors, needs to be encouraged. Currently, there are 64 women in the Bangladesh parliament but there is still a long way to go in terms of making real progress. Ranee S Saral, MP (India) highlighted the fact that effective conflict resolution requires participation from all segments of society, as stated in UN Security Council Resolution 1325. However, women bear the brunt of shattered lives owing to their exclusion from conflict prevention and post conflict resolution activity. In India, Parliament remains in close contact with all sections of society, in particular marginalized groups, minorities and victims of violence. Tauqir Fatima Bhutto, Minister for Women Development, Sindh stressed that domestic violence and women’s harassment are issues that need to be strictly addressed. The President and Prime Minister of Pakistan have already focused on a mediation week for the purpose of crushing the Jirga system. Women’s caucuses need to be established at the provincial level so that acts of violence such as vani, women’s trafficking and innocent imprisonment are dealt with. Follow up from crisis centers needs to be improved. Saira Tarar, MNA (PML - N) began by stating that women are considered as property rather than as human beings. The literacy rate for women in Pakistan is 36 per cent, which is the main reason for their victimization. It is essential that men be gender sensitized and the concept of women’s rights in Islam be clarified at all levels. Misconceptions, such as the fact that family planning is unIslamic, need to be addressed. There must be implementation of existing laws. Hina Jilani, Expert stressed that democracy must be supported at all levels since it is essential for women’s empowerment. Political processes, rather than political parties, must be encouraged for democracy to flourish. Recognition of women’s rights through the establishment of separate courts and the use of adequate laws for the protection of women are the key to women’s advancement. Institutions like Dar-Ul- Amans act more like prisons for women as appose to shelters. Implementation of certain anti-discriminatory laws, e.g. the Domestic Violence Bill and Sexual Harassment Bill, has faced problems and these must be resolved on a emergency footing. Saba Khatak, Member Social Sector, Planning Commission of Pakistan focused on the fact that the Human Development Index did not include women’s development. For this reason, the Gender Development Index was formed. The war on terror has changed ground realities. Owing to the lack of women’s authority in policy and decision making roles, domestic violence is increasing. This is the reason why livelihood security should be institutionalized and a institutional response to gender issues is lacking. Chairperson’s Summary: There is a need to change society’s mindset on gender issues through education, awareness raising campaigns and sensitization. The concept of women’s rights in Islam needs to be clarified. Democracy is necessary to support the movement for women rights. Women need to explore the many

13

dimensions of conflict to understand the space for extension of peace building measures and their own role in doing so. Issues Raised in General Discussion

Steps to improve the literacy rate need to be taken in different provinces of Pakistan.

While Karokari exists, it has not yet been declared “intentional murder”. Kasas Wadyat is an integral part of this law, which makes it more difficult to get justice if the murderer happens to be a relative.

Funds need to be found for the establishment of women’s complexes/centers at the district levels.

MoWD has the Prime Minister in charge while in Punjab, the Minister is Mr. Kamran Michel.

Steps need to be taken to change social behavior on this issue. Under age marriage must be looked into. If young people under 18 are

considered as children, it follows that those who get married before 18 are in the same category.

There needs to be a debate on whether or not registering and tackling domestic violence against women leads to family breakup.

Labor inspectors should be allowed to visit the work places of women workers.

Implementation of property rights for women remains highly inadequate The fact that the mother is always responsible for child care needs to be

considered, along with the fact that the wife is always to blame even if the husband is the guilty party.

Women living in areas like FATA and PATA cannot make proper use of laws available for their protection because of the prevailing Jirga system.

War on terror presents new challenges as it blurs the boundaries between individuals and the state. Threats come from both state and non-state entities, which is why human rights come under attack and women on both sides of the ideological divide suffer.


The police system must be gender inclusive to allow for increased recruitment.

Women criminals must have access to a lady police officer and lawyer. Female police stations should be re-organized by giving them the authority to

register cases and their number should be increased. The problems of home based workers should be identified and solved. Women should organize associations and raise their voices for equal wage

rate, safety at work, livelihood security etc. Co-education should be encouraged so that problems related to sex

discrimination do not arise. Protection committees should be made at union council levels. There should be gender sensitization of religious groups and scholars to

overcome the negative influence of their speeches and there should be adequate legislation to control their right to free speech.l

Women should be educated about their rights. For the purpose of gender sensitization, men should be involved in

discussions regarding women’s rights. Steps should be taken to increase the literacy rate, change social behaviour,

improve women’s financial stability and increase grass roots participation.

14

Networking mechanisms should be established with civil society, non-governmental organizations and the media.

Job opportunities for women overseas should be increased by the overseas employment ministry.

Women should be appointed as DSPs in women police stations so that women can report their problems without any hesitation and register FIRs

Provincial caucuses should be established. Women parliamentarians should be given equal importance in opposition. So that women can participate more effectively, the use of English in public

places should be minimized. Measures should be taken to prevent the massive violation of women’s rights

in the course of rehabilitation during natural disasters. Women should be saved from forced marriages perpetrated through karokari

or by jirgas. Knowledge of fundamental rights under the constitution of Pakistan should be

included in the school syllabus.. Opening times for crisis centers should be extended to 24 hours instead of

closing them at 3 PM to respond to victims of violence Women should be respected by the administration of all police stations,

hospitals, shelters and Dar-Ul-Amans. Women criminals should not be handed over to police stations administered

by men. Women should be handled in separate police stations. Pakistani women’s rights should be defined in terms of Islam and the

constitution of Pakistan rather in terms of western freedom and equality. Parents and maulvis should follow the 18th provision of the nikah nama, which

ensures that consent be taken from the girl at the time of her marriage. It should be compulsory to fill in the points on the last page of the nikah nama

as they carry provisions for women’s rights that should reduce domestic violence by up to 60 per cent.

There should be awareness raising among men of women’s rights in Islam. There should be provincial conventions on the equal status of women and all

provincial governments should ensure implementation of their laws. Women parliamentarians should unite their voices on women’s issues

regardless of party background. Women’s employment exchanges should be established and their

participation must be protected by security institutions allowing women to register freely

Steps should be taken to make under aged divorced females financially independent given that parents cannot always afford to support them.

Every law should be supported by effective mechanisms for implementation. A comprehensive protection body should be established to coordinate

implementation of laws and policies The fundamental element of a protection system should be respect for human

dignity and relief for the victim from the burden of prosecution. Articles 14 and 25 of the constitution of Pakistan should be the basis of all

agendas for women’s protection and empowerment. Women’s police stations must not be restricted to territorial jurisdiction Adequate security, currently provided to Ministers should be equally extended

to female MPAs in Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa, where the law and order situation is deteriorating.

Mothers should sensitize their children to gender concerns in the course of their upbringing.

Budgetary allocation for women should be made in all fields, including education, health etc.

15

Women’s crisis centers should have lady legal advisors. The posts of computer operators and clerks should also be assigned to females.

Adaptation and improvement of existing legal norms and procedures in line with specific aspects of assistance should be offered to women

Key Recommendations

Accelerated advocacy efforts should be made for complete enforcement of Article 25 of the Constitution of Pakistan which states that “All citizens are equal before the law and entitled to equal protection before the law; there shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex alone; nothing in this article shall prevent the State from making any special provision for the protection of women and children”

Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, specifically the provisions that protect girls below the age of 18, should be ensured.

There should be a harmonization of laws throughout Pakistan to ensure equal access for all citizens, especially women in FATA, PATA, GB and AJ&K. This would put an end to parallel systems such as jirgas and punchayats.

There should be criminalization of violence against women committed by family members through legislation against domestic violence. There should also be institutional mechanisms to implement laws and provision of shelters at the district level.

Women’s police stations should be revived and strengthened with sufficient budgets, resources and mandates to empower women police officials to register first information reports (FIRs) and take other measures to protect women

There should be collective efforts made by women parliamentarians across party lines to identify solutions to women’s security issues and engage male parliamentarians in the advancement of the women's human rights agenda.

Programmes should be developed at district and union council levels to ensure women's economic security through training in income generation skills.

Women should be trained in specific job skills as well as in leadership skills (negotiation, mediation, consensus building, conflict resolution etc).

Working Session 3 Effects of Conflict on Women - Plight of Internally Displaced Women

“Why should special attention be given to women IDWs?” The group work theme focused on the fact that Pakistan is at present suffering from the effects of instability caused by tensions on the Pak-Afghan border and the on-going conflict in FATA and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Without peace, sustainable development is impossible to achieve. Conflict resolution and peace building in war ravaged areas need special attention, especially to the vulnerable sections of society, women and children who are the worst affected. Women parliamentarians need to advocate a meaningful role for displaced women at all levels of decision making in conflict and post-conflict situations. This group was chaired by Sitara Ayaz, Honorable Provincial Minister for Women Development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Discussants included: Fawzia Koofi, Member of Parliament, Republic of Afghanistan; Asma Arbab Alamgir, Member of National Assembly, Government of Pakistan; Noureen Arif, Minister of Education, Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir; and Rahila Hameed Khan Durrani, Provincial Minister for Prosecution, Government of Baluchistan. Robina Saigal, Expert, was absent.

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Discussant speeches and presentations9 are summarized as follows: Fawzia Koofi, Member of Parliament, Republic of Afghanistan highlighted Afghanistan’s poor progress on human development before and after the Taliban came into power. As a result, Afghanistan now ranks as one of the poorest countries in the world. Before the Taliban came to power, women participated in state and society’ affairs and worked as legislators, teachers, lawyers, judges, journalists, writers and poets. During the Taliban regime, women and girls were systematically discriminated against and marginalized; their human rights were violated. This resulted in deteriorating economic and social conditions for women and girls in all parts of the country, in particular in areas under Taliban control. In these areas, women and girls continued to be severely restricted in their access to education, health care facilities and employment. There are two wars going on in Afghanistan: one is to defeat the Taliban and extremism and the other is to liberate women. Asma Arbab Alamgir, Member of National Assembly, Pakistan highlighted the plight of displaced women in Khyber Pakhtunkhua and FATA. She explained that women in these parts of the country already lagged behind in education and economic empowerment. As a result, Talibanization and military operations had left women in a state of extreme misery and despair. Internal displacement through war between militants in Malakand, Swat and FATA sets a world record in terms of intensity of its effect on women and children. The current Government has played a significant role in recognizing the plight of women in conflict areas. Women parliamentarians should raise a strong united voice for the well being and empowerment of displaced women. Noureen Arif, Minister of Education, Azad Jammu and Kashmir stated that women throughout the history of Islam and Pakistan have played a vital role and made sacrifices for the sake of peace and prosperity. Women should participate more effectively in peace building and conflict resolution in current conflict situations. Women parliamentarians have been prominent in securing the passage of the Workplace Harassment Bill and police reforms. There must be a strengthening of women’s role in developing a national plan for achieving peace and security. Rahila Hameed Khan Durrani, MPA, Baluchistan explained that displaced women are special among the billions of women in the world living in difficult circumstances on account of their increased vulnerability. Only a few lines in resolutions and reports are not adequate for addressing their plight. UN Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement need to be implemented. These would address issues related to the displacement of women, as well as pre-disaster planning, effective coordination mechanisms (public and private), community-based disaster preparedness and special measures for protection of displaced girls, food security, health care, psycho-social counseling and sensitization of the media to the issues of displaced women overall. Government needed to establish: separate departments at both national and provincial levels; a national level core committee with representation for the provinces representation; standing committees; a pro-women legislative agenda, advocacy for peace building; effective representation of women parliamentarians on various committees and forums; and awareness raising at grass-roots levels of the need to solicit public and media support. Chairperson’s Summary: Displaced women in Afghanistan and Pakistan face the same issues. There is a dire need for to develop joint strategies to deal with this


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grave humanitarian crisis. Talibanization and military operations have left the women and children of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and FATA in an extreme state of misery. Without the meaningful participation of women in post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation, peace and stability in these areas will remain elusive. The current government and the sacrifice of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto has provided an opportunity to women legislators to advocate the rights and needs of displaced Pakistani women. Women must contribute to developing a national plan of action since internal displacement constitutes a special case of trauma and vulnerability. Solid recommendations need to be adopted. These include: adoption of UN Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, pre-disaster planning, psycho-socio counseling and establishment of separate departments and committees of women parliamentarians at both national and provincial levels. Issues Raised

The financial independence of displaced women is crucial to dealing with issues related to displaced women in both Pakistan and Afghanistan. Women must be empowered through making them financially independent; this should be an essential component of bilateral trade agreements and exchange visits between the two countries. Unfortunately, the security situation in both countries does not permit such initiatives but women parliamentarians of both countries can play an active role in advocating the economic empowerment of women.

Psycho-socio counseling of displaced women in Pakistan and Afghanistan is essential. In neither country is this soft issue given priority; security issues overtake all other concerns.

Afghanistan now has the Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Welfare and a Gender Unit in each one. The Ministry of Women Affairs strongly feels the need for legislation on women’s issues; traditions that discriminate against women are now being recognized as structural violence against women.

There is a need to change the mindset of war-affected populations. In post conflict situations, there is a need to confront women’s issues rather

than concentrate strictly on security and strategic issues. While Afghanistan was invaded on the pretext of human and women rights violations by the Taliban, now they are being left out of negotiations between the Government and foreign forces.

Women legislators of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa must never compromise on women’s issues that arise during post-conflict negotiations between Government and militants. The same is true for Afghanistan.

A collection should be made of Sex Disaggregated Data for IDPs. IDP data compiled by Government, Civil Society, Donors and the United Nations is available on different Government, CSOs and UN websites.

Committees along the lines of the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s PDMA need to be set up to look at damage needs assessment and data collection for displaced populations.

GoP should further its efforts to try and secure funds from the Friends of Democratic Pakistan that cater to the needs of IDPs.

In Afghanistan, there is a Ministry of Disaster Management responsible for data collection and the resettlement of Afghan refugees, along with the resettlement IDPs and refugees from the neighboring countries of Pakistan and Iran.

There should be proper coordination between Afghanistan and Pakistan on dealing with the common challenge of militancy whereas there has been a sharing of ideas regarding women issues.

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There should be intensified intelligence-sharing among Pak-Afghan security forces about militant movements across the Durand Line.

Reasons for Afghanistan’s increasing school age for displaced children, especially girls were justified as an effort to provide maximum opportunities to those children who had lost school years as result of war and the Taliban’s ban on female education.


Women’s empowerment through financial independence should be included as an essential component of bilateral trade agreements and exchange visits between the two countries.

There should be a joint mechanism for Pakistan and Afghanistan to fight extremism and address IDP issues such as the need for psycho-social therapy for displaced women and children

Development of a relevant curriculum and diploma system in conflict-ridden areas should include mechanisms and counseling material for coping with crisis situations and diminishing their psychological effects.

Women parliamentarians in both countries, i.e. Pakistan and Afghanistan, need to safeguard the rights of displaced women in the course of negotiations in conflict and post conflict situations.

Women parliamentarians of Pakistan and Afghanistan need to raise a united voice for the well being and empowerment of displaced and migrant women.

Joint strategies and ventures should be developed to deal with internal displacement and IDP women’s issues.

There should be active intelligence sharing among Pak-Afghan security forces about cross-border movement and militant activities.

There should be psycho-social therapy for displaced women and the development and introduction of special curricula for this purpose.

The school age for children, especially girls, should be raised in conflict areas.

Ensuring women’s participation in negotiations with militants and protecting their rights in such processes

A national plan of action should be developed that increases women’s participation in post-conflict rehabilitation and reconstruction.

UN Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement that address the plight of displaced women should be adopted.

There should be pre-disaster planning and community-based disaster preparedness.

There should be effective coordination mechanisms (public and private) to address the issue of displacement

There should be special measures for the protection of displaced girls and their food and health security.

There should be media sensitization on issues related to displaced women. Separate departments should be set up at the national and provincial levels to

look at the needs of displaced populations. There should be a core committee at the national level with equal

representation from provinces. Standing committees should be set up for pro-women’s legislation at national

and provincial levels. Advocacy networks of women parliamentarians and activists for peace

building should be set up at national and provincial levels. There should be effective and maximum representation of women

parliamentarians at various committees and forums.

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There should be awareness raising at grass-roots levels for soliciting public and media support.

There should be meaningful participation of women in the post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation process.

Key Recommendations

Enacting pro women legislation that addresses women IDPs’ needs through gender sensitive mechanisms is essential. In post conflict and conflict situations, women parliamentarians should be included in every decision making committee, forum and department related to IDPs at all stages and levels. This would facilitate effective supervision of humanitarian and relief assistance.

A core committee should be established at the national level and standing committees in the provincial assemblies to address women IDPs’ needs.

Rehabilitation should include provision of formal education and vocational skills training for young girls.

DAY 3 SECOND PLENARY SESSION Day two was anchored by Ms. Marvi Sarmad, National Program Manger UNDP/SDPD. She paid tribute to the constructive engagement of honorable members and delegates in the working sessions. Address by Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek10 Mr. Naek began by stating that the world cannot be a peaceful place without the participation of women – more than half the population – in effective family, social and leadership roles. Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was a great leader who had a broad vision of women’s empowerment and their role in reconciliation. Pakistan has been facing the challenge of terrorism, in which women are equal victims with men. To address these challenges, collective measures, without discrimination of gender, need to be taken. Referring to Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s doctrine of reconciliation he emphasized its adoption to bring together dispersed communities as a nation. Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010 is an exemplary model for bringing about national unity. He stressed on women parliamentarians need to play an active role in guaranteeing peace and security at the international level. Overview of Peace and Security - Senator Nilofar Bakhtiar Ms. Bakhtiar emphasized the role of women in peace, security and conflict resolution. Leaders such as Indira Ghandhi in India and from Sri Lanka Sirimavo Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike had played a major role in bringing about the hundred per cent literacy resolution. Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto had sponsored the Children’s Summit which had an impact on many children across the world. She added that terrorism was fuelled by problems such as food shortage, inflation and unemployment. The resulting rise in poverty and illiteracy had bred frustration


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among the youth. In order to curb terrorism, an anti-terrorism policy needed to be developed that would focus on disarmament, rehabilitation and transparent judicial action. The current government and civil society groups should focus on the after effects of conflict, the primary cause of many of the problems already mentioned. Way to Economic Empowerment; A Case Study of Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) – Ms Farzana Raja, MNA, Chairperson of BISP11 Ms. Raja stated that BISP is a landmark achievement for the women of Pakistan. BISP ensures women’s right to a decent living, adequate housing, education and health. Many steps have been taken for the uplift of women in terms of initiating microfinance schemes, encouraging entrepreneurship, and providing soft loans and identity cards. Since its creation, BISP has launched an Emergency Relief Package for IDP victims of terrorism: over seven million women have gained access to adequate health insurance of Rs. 25,000, day care facilities for their children etc. BISP closely links its programs and policies to the MDGs. She concluded by saying that in order to attain sustainability Members of Parliament need to agree on a combined agenda and work beyond party lines. Legislating for Empowerment: Harassment at Workplace Bill – Ms. Yasmeen Rehman, MNA/Advisor to the Federal Ministry of Women Development Ms. Rehman highlighted legislative achievements and praised the democratic government for providing a favorable political environment for women for the first time. Comparing men and women, she stressed that women face daunting challenges in all fields - social, cultural and political - which can only be changed by gender sensitive policy initiatives and law enactment. Ms. Rehman shared government’s efforts to take into serious account its prior commitments e.g. the National Plan of Action, Beijing Declaration and MDGs. Considerable steps have been taken to ensure their enforcement by introducing legislation that includes Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010 and the Criminal Law Act. The Domestic Violence Bill and Women’s Legal Ownership of Assets and Resources were presently under consideration. PRESIDENCY SPEECH12 On behalf of the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari and in honour of the delegates a luncheon meeting was arranged at the Presidency, wherein, honourable delegates had the opportunity to meet the President and listen to his speech. Working Sessions At the conclusion of the second plenary session the anchor requested honourable members and delegates to join their respective pre-selected groups as follows: Working Session 4: Engaging Media for Peace Working Session 5: Building Networks for Peace



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Working Session 6: Role Of The Women Caucuses In Legislation And Oversight of Peace And Security Issues Working Session 4: Engaging Media for Peace

“How can the media portray a positive role of women’s involvement in the peace process and report this in a gender sensitive manner?”

The theme of this group focused on the role of independent media in the extension of democratic processes that finally lead to stable environment. The media have always been an important tool for creating and maintaining trust, and projecting the people’s voice. The media in Pakistan have over the past few years successfully reported the war in Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa but they have failed so far to highlight the importance of women’s representation in conflict prevention and post conflict efforts to restructure the environment. Women need to be encouraged to participate in carefully designed programs that inform, educate and entertain people in conflict situations. Women legislators should combine their efforts with those of the media to define a movement towards peace. The group was chaired by Zaib Jaffar, Advisor to Chief Minister Punjab. Discussants included Khush Bakht Shujat, MNA; Zofeen Ibrahim (Expert); Shazia Mari, Provincial Minister for Information, Sindh; and Ranee Narah, MP, India. Discussant speeches and presentations13 are as follows: Khushbakht Shujat, MNA began by appraising the importance and penetration of media in contemporary life, lauding the concept of the”Global village”. Wars now shape themselves in the form of interests. What has not changed is the fact that women are still the worst affected. However, a vibrant media in Pakistan now highlights women’s efforts to build peace. Parliamentarians represent women, who make up 50 per cent of the population; they must use the powerful tool of the media to change our lives and those of our children. Zofeen Ibrahim (Expert) described peace as a state of mind that is reflected in our immediate environment. Human rights can be simply defined as rights to the basic necessities of food, shelter, housing, healthcare etc. The transition to democracy remains shaky with lawlessness and instability still prevailing. In this time of alarming inequality, supporting the most disadvantaged group demands great sacrifice. The media are a two-edged sword which can be used for any purpose; however, their positive use is by now well developed. Shazia Mari, Provincial Minister for Information, Sindh quoted from a French thinker who says that the power of the media is second only to the power of the people and must be used for the propagation of peace. In historical terms, women’s leadership has always brought lasting social change. The media need to promote women’s participation and function as a watchdog for human security and democracy. Ranee Narah, MP, India praised the role of the media and described media persons as peace messengers as long as their message is unbiased and in the larger interest of the public. In India, women’s participation is becoming more visible and almost 50


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per cent of news room staff are women. Women should participate vigorously in the peace process and use media coverage to their advantage. Chairperson’s Summary: The world has now contracted into a Global Village. The catalyst for this contraction is the role played by vibrant media across the world. Development of this role has increased to the extent that media personnel now conceive themselves as security watchdogs and peace messengers. However, the functioning of the media must be strictly supervised. Issues Raised

Manipulation of media by political governments is a concern. The media’s role of watch dog is to draw their audience’s attention to negative

developments. The media’s positive role is sometimes maligned because of the

government’s chequered history of manipulation. Each new government manipulates the media for political gains.

Breaking news – now common the world over - is a form of sensationalism that needs to be banished.

The Government needs to consult the media in order to implement a proper code of ethics. This has not happened so far.

The media are unable to differentiate between Islam and terrorism. Through the use of illegal FM radio stations, they have even been used to promote militancy and extremism. Commercial media sometimes obscure the facts.

The media’s irresponsible falsification of information contributes to an environment of confrontation between Muslims and minorities in Pakistan.

Owners of media bodies (print and electronic) are known to blackmail politicians.

Media coverage of women’s caucus activities must be closely monitored. They condemned media reporting of the convention, in which parliamentarians were shown sleeping and thereby projecting a false impression of questioning the value that this convention held in changing the fate of Pakistani woman?

The media play a negative role in projecting victims of rape, karo kari and love marriages. Unethical reporting for commercial gain can intensify victims’ misery, including threats to their lives.

The media should verify all their sources of information. False reporting in the case of the flogging of a girl by Taliban in Swat was cited as clear evidence of media irresponsibility.

The Caucus should promote ‘Investigative Journalism”. General Recommendations:

Coordinated skill building and sensitization programs for women parliamentarians and media should help advocate the rightful role of women in all peace related processes.

Censorship laws should be carefully reviewed. Caucus members should be elected at both national and provincial levels and

secretaries should be appointed through the consensus of elected members. Provincial Caucus formation should be halted if members continue to favour

nomination over election. Media skill building programmes should cover the following: respecting diversity preventing broadcasting propaganda securing effective relations with parliamentarians.

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Media campaigns encouraging participation in social reconstruction and democratization should be designed.

The media should be loyal to truth and facts. The media should always promote national interests instead of portraying

militant leaders such as Bait Ullah Mehsud and the militants of Lal Masjid as heroes.

Reference should be made to international standards in examining media Irresponsibility and false reporting.

Communication skills and media management training should be part of all parliamentarians’, especially women’s, training and orientation.

Media’s role of watch dog should be substantive and not focus on petty issues.

A strategic media framework should be developed that focuses on citizen participation in peace building efforts, and on media freedom, transparency and accountability.

Key Recommendations

Organizing coordinated skill building sensitized programmes for women parliamentarians and media to facilitate and advocate for the rightful role and interests of women in all peace related processes. Facilitate removal of gender bias while dealing with issues of peace, security and reconciliation.

- launching media skill building programmes to cover these interests - respecting diversity - preventing circulation and broadcasting propaganda

securing effective relations with parliamentarian Design and launch media campaigns encouraging participation in social

reconstruction and democratization Communication and media management training to be a part of the

orientation and induction package for all parliamentarians especially women Development of a strategic media framework focusing on citizen participation

based on peace building efforts as well as development of information landscape of freedom, transparency and accountability.

Working Session 5 Building Networks for Peace

“How can the women’s caucus advocate and network with national, provincial, regional and international groups”

The theme of this group focused on combined efforts, stronger networking and extended coordination among all stakeholders in order to ensure prolonged and sustainable peace building movements. Women parliamentarians should lead these efforts by creating a demand for peace at national and international levels. At the national level, a three- dimensional strategy for capacity building of local communities in affected areas should be designed that proves helpful in resolution of conflicts and restructuring communities at the post-conflict stage. At the international level, effective networking among peace building groups can further the bringing together of women from policy making groups with women victims of conflict. This group was chaired by Saadia Danish, MLA Advisor to the Chief Minister, Gilgit-Baltistan. Discussants included Dr. Fozia Saeed (Expert), Dr. Ruquiya Hashmi, MPA, Balochistan, and Mumtaz Khawar, Civil Society member. Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, MNA absent and Beena Sarwar, Media Expert absent

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Summaries of discussant speeches and presentations14 are as follows: Dr. Fozia Saeed (Expert) began by outlining the difficulties of creating gender sensitive networks in politics. Smaller networks are considered more effective because large networks require greater human resources to monitor their functions. In Pakistan networks are not usually developed; to be effective, members should have individual strengths that in combination develop group force. Women parliamentarians should create a mechanism that makes possible the participation of ordinary women who inform them of injustice and suspicious activities taking place in their neighborhoods. Dr. Ruquiya Hashmi, MPA, Balochistan began by citing examples of great women from the past and their services to their nations. Although women now occupy prominent places in NGOs, civil society organizations and Parliament, there are still many cases of violence against women to whom justice is denied. District Women Forums should be established where women doctors, legal advisors and teachers can their ideas. The Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza should approve a four to five member committee which could help to develop District Women’s Forums over the next two years. Mumtaz Khawar, Civil Society Member spoke about the establishment of regional and international committees for peace. These platforms needs to be broadened in scope and a practical approach consolidated. Gilgit-Baltistan must now be represented in the National Assembly and Senate. This region also needs to establish its own women’s caucus. Women parliamentarians and other influential women must play their full role in bringing women from different walks of life to participate in this forum. Caucus members who do not participate actively in caucus matters should be reviewed. Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, MNA: Absent Beena Sarwar, Media: Absent Chair Summary: There is a need for the creation of women’s networks to improve interaction at all levels. Smaller networks work more effectively as they are easier to handle. A mechanism that includes ordinary women should be developed to gather first hand information. District women forums should be formed at district level for the purpose of mainstreaming ordinary women. To enhance women’s networking, caucuses also need to be formed at provincial and district levels. Issues Raised

What are women ministries doing regarding these issues? Do they have the authority to solve these problems?

Not all national level NGOs are working in Balochistan; nor have they communicated with parliamentarians.

What are the objectives of parliamentary caucus committees for peace? They need to identify the roots of conflict and parameters of peace.

All National Assembly caucus members need to take an active part. Due to time constraints, the complex situation in Balochistan could not be

discussed.


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Women should be involved at all levels of peace keeping initiatives. Parliamentarians should establish contact with civil society representatives. At the South Asian level, SAARC has a peace building committee and formal

relations need to be established. Networking should be expanded to provincial levels to ensure peace and

security at the grass roots level. Though there are similar networks at the international level but for the time

being we need to prioritize strengthening national networks as opposed to international one’s since conditions of peace and security are worsening

Media should be involved in advocacy. Instead of wasting time on discussion, practical steps should be taken to help

women in neglected areas such as Balochistan. Networks should be created at the provincial level and linked with one

another. Academics and media persons should be part of these networks. National commissions should be established at provincial levels. Peace committees should be established at district levels. The new assembly

of Gilgit-Baltistan needs to be guided in how to establish committees and caucuses.

Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa has established a women’s caucus; other provinces should follow their example.

There should be a defined mechanism for continuous networking. Women parliamentarians belonging to other parties should play their roles

individually and draw on networks Defined networking is more effective than extending huge networks Networking needs to be diversified. There should be guidance for establishing caucuses. All recommendations should be published, shared and implemented Parliamentarians should visit Balochistan to assess ground realities especially

of women and children Communication between center and provinces should be improved. There should be district level committees for neglected provinces.

Key Recommendations

Working for peace demands a pluralist democracy. The parliamentary caucus should form a committee for peace. Similar committees should be set up in each provincial assembly to connect

representative forums at all levels (provincial, district, sub-district). Local peace and security networks for women should be set up. Awareness should be raised about laws related to conflict (UN Resolution

1325). Initiative should be taken to create South Asian parliamentarians’ forum

through setting up a working group with regional parliamentarians. Working Session 6 Role Of The Women Caucuses In Legislation And Oversight Of Peace And Security Issues

“How and why should WPC undertake the oversight role of peace and security initiatives?”

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This session focused on women’s caucuses potential to raise a collective voice, and become a joint force to take up issues traditionally considered out of bound for women legislators. Caucuses to play their role effectively need to look for new initiatives, a new way of thinking, to find a peaceful resolution towards ensuring lasting peace. Historically, whenever women are at the forefront of political decision making, it leads to constructive and affirmative social change. Their role is crucial and paramount in appeasing situations of conflicts. Hence, drawing from their personal insights on the plight of women caught in conflict and natural disasters as well as with support from the civil society, the women caucuses can highlight the issues of women, peace and security and ensure their active role and participation in peace and security issues .Women parliamentarians have the responsibility to ensure that the security needs of women, men, girls and boys are incorporated into security policy-making and the role of women causes in this sphere can prove critical. This session was chaired by Mehrun Nisa, Deputy Speaker, Azad Jammu Kashmir and discussants included Azma Bukhari, MPA, Punjab, Rabia Hadi, Aurat Foundation, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, MNA, Punjab, Senator Sughra Imam and Hon Ms Mohammadi Siddiqi and MP/Chairperson Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Nepal (Absent) Discussant speeches and presentations15 are as follows: Azma Bukhari, MPA, Punjab emphasized the role of women caucuses as critical to bridging gaps between women and legislators. Cross fertilization of ideas pave way for productive legislation and these caucuses enhance confidence among the women in parliament. These caucuses help mitigate differences amongst women across party lines. Referring to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s book “Reconciliation: Islam, Democracy and the west” she emphasized the great leader’s vision as always reflecting on the invaluable role of women in peace making processes. She concluded with a strong recommendation for women caucuses to use their immense potential towards ensuring a peaceful and secure society. Rabia Hadi, Aurat Foundation described in detail the plight of women in conflict affected areas and the unavailability of reliable data to initiate gender equity based programmes. Role of government remained central to addressing these and women parliamentarians need to carefully review and understand the impact of current legislation on women. Ms Hadi recommended the formulation of a “Women National Policy Agenda” and further legislative processes to supplement the key gap areas. Finally, she emphasized upon the need for women caucuses to build consensus on a common legislative agenda with a gender mainstreaming focus that built strong alliances with male parliamentarians. Begum Ishrat Ashraf, MNA, Punjab: stated that women’s caucus formation must be moved forward quickly. Priority legislation work must include finalization of the domestic violence bill and all legislation that usurpes women’s rights, Begum Ashraf suggested that with proper legislation, women parliamentarians must work closely with the masses and must receive first hand information on their plight. At the end, she stressed upon the need for unity among women parliamentarians by maintaining communication at all and strengthened networking. Senator Sughra Imam: called the establishment of women caucuses as a revolutionary step, she suggested that these caucuses should be established at


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provincial levels and there should be proper mechanisms and linkages established amongst them involving male and female parliamentarians at the helm of affairs to support the reform agenda. Senator Imam was pleased note that Madam Speaker had stated this commitment clearly in her address. She further suggested that male parliamentarians must also work closely with women caucuses stating that there was no difference between women rights and human rights. Moreover, she strongly urged for the implementation of existing laws in their true sense. Hon Ms Mohammadi Siddiqi, MP/Chairperson Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Nepal: Absent Chair’s Summary: Hon Ms Siddiqi appreciated the excellent contributions of discussants and reaffirming the establishment of women’s caucuses and as a landmark initiative ensuring rights and development of women. She requested honorable members to strive together for a unified struggle and legislate effectively for the upliftment of women including those from Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). She congratulated honorable members for upholding the concept of cross fertilization of ideas amongst parliamentarian to strengthen their role as legislators. Issues Raised

Mortality rate is highest in neglected areas like Balochistan. Rape victim women feel hesitation during cross questioning in police stations

courts; therefore, women police and judges need to be appointed. Women parliamentarian need to be empowered with requisite skills to

legislate effectively. Financial and budgetary constrains may hinder the working of women

parliamentarians. Male parliamentarians insensitivity towards women’s specific legislation e.g.,

domestic violence bill. Women caucus must tackle the problems from grass root level and advocate

them as well Lack of adequate and sensitive protection mechanisms for women in police

stations. Weak country wide Implementation of existing laws.


Role of women’s caucus must be made active at provincial and district levels. Health related issues must be raised by the caucus in rural areas especially

those related with MMR Complain cells must be developed in divisions so that the victim women can

register their FIR there and get protection. .Female protection unites in police stations The progress and evaluation of existing women caucuses’ performance

(central and provisional) should be undertaken by main parliamentary caucus. strengthened women caucuses at provincial level by including female

members of district assemblies may be included into this group in order to benefit the process at grass root level

Media must be sensitized to better propagate the work of women caucuses. Capacity building of women caucuses must include specialized skills e.g.

legislative drafting, advocacy and conflict resolution. Party leaders must acknowledge the importance of women caucuses. Executive appointments in women caucus must be merit based

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Female members must raise their voice for gender issues in their parties as well in the assemblies

Gender balanced peace and security committees must be established in all four provinces.

Frequent networking must be arranged between women at provincial levels. Member parliamentarians should be given authority to be more practical. Establishing caucuses in all assemblies and legislators and create linkages

among them Engage provincial caucuses for better implementation of progressive laws Formation of working groups irrespective of their party backgrounds. Formation of women caucuses at provincial levels should be federally

monitored so as to make them more effective. Implementation of gender sensitive laws and gender mainstreaming is

essential Women and children handling in prisons must be reassessed. Ensure enforcement of job quotas especially within judiciary, police and other

security institutions. Key Recommendations

Make security and defense committees more gender balanced Enact legislation to increase participation of female parliamentarians on

security related committees. Appoint an ombudsperson with special powers to oversee the integration of

gender issues within defense and other security sector institutions Establish a common legislative agenda codes of conduct for security sector

personnel concerning prevention and response to human rights violations, including disciplinary procedures

Conduct inquiries/studies into the nature and extent of sexual harassment and other forms of Gender Based Violence with security sector institutions.

Caucuses at Provincial levels should be constituted Collective and unanimous method should be adopted for choosing or electing

Caucus office bearers in all Provinces. Review of existing legislations and policies and oversight of their

implementation at all levels Gender sensitization of male stakeholders Gender mainstreaming of annual budgets and all policy documents

CLOSING SESSION Ms. Huma Chughtai, Convention Coordinator, anchored the closing session. Way Forward --- Keynote Speech by Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Sector, based upon the recommendations of the six sessions16 Ms. Wazir Ali acknowledged it an honor to take part in the first ever convention of women parliamentarians from across Pakistan. The convention should be taken as an opportunity for bringing about change since it was taking place in one of the most difficult times for Pakistan. Women and children are the first to be affected by conflict although they have nothing to do with it and are the victims of ethnic violence,


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discrimination, prejudice etc. The convention’s two-day deliberations had focused on women legislators as peace builders, mediators and strong advocates for security. Members’ participation in working sessions affirmed that women parliamentarians had the courage to define a vision of peace in which women participated at all decision making levels. Key recommendations emerging from the convention included: affirmative action leading to legislation and a mainstreaming role for women legislators in the peace building process. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s had exhibited total faith in the ability of the people of Pakistan to heal the wounds of tyranny. Dr. Fehmida Mirza had taken the bold initiative of setting up this convention. Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, Chairperson Drafting Committee Presented the Conference Declaration17 The convention declaration stated that all women parliamentarians commit themselves to striving to become the driving force that will promote zero tolerance of all forms of violence including conflict. Using peace as a tool they will promote the spirit of reconciliation and dialogue at multiple levels. Women and children who are the most affected by conflict will be brought into peace building processes. The declaration further emphasized that woman parliamentarians will work nationally, regionally and internationally with women’s groups and civil society to promote peace efforts and will take the lead in creating a network of elected representatives. They will also advocate for human security and will work to dismantle inequities that engender discrimination. They will work to increase women’s participation in policy and decision making and will work with the media to remove gender biases that impede sustainable development. Speech by Mir Jan Muhammad Jamali, Deputy Chairman Senate Mr. Jamali commenced his speech by describing his political career that began in 1988 when there were only two women serving in Balochistan parliament. At times it worked as “stag” parliament but times have now changed and women representation “must shine”. Presently, he stated that there are seventy two women parliamentarians out of three hundred and forty two in the National Assembly of which twelve are directly elected and sixty of them are on special seats. Mr. Jamali concluded by strongly recommending that all political parties must issue mandatory tickets to women at the forthcoming general elections as this would lead to a positive change. Closing Speech by the Speaker National Assembly WPC Patron Dr. Fehmida Mirza18 Madam Speaker, in her closing speech, expressed her confidence in women legislators and their commitment to the Joint Declaration of the convention. They should use the Declaration as a medium for launching gender sensitive legislation. Women’s parliamentary caucuses had been established at the provincial level and now there was a great need to build linkages amongst them and facilitate bonding at



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the SAARC level. A strong collective voice was essential for resolving peace and security issues. The two-day convention had revealed various facets of the connection between women, peace and security, and the potential of women’s distinctive role for bringing about lasting peace. Civil society and the media had also played an important part in security and peace building. In the end, Dr. Mirza thanked all honorable members and delegates, in particular the honorable members and delegates from SAARC countries. Closure of Convention and Vote of Thanks by Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah MNA19 Ms. Shah closed the convention with a vote of thanks to individuals, government representatives, donor groups, members of the National assembly, the event management teams, media and the video/audio team for their valuable support.


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ANNEXURE - 1: Program Agenda

National Convention of Women Parliamentarians May 24-26, 2010

Convention Centre, Islamabad

“Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security & Reconciliation”

PROGRAMME Monday, May 24, 2010

All day arrivals Reception Desks At Hotels

2000 hrs: Welcome Diner with cultural show hosted by the

Hon’ble Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan, H.E. Dr. Fehmida Mirza at Lok Virsa, Islamabad (Strictly by Invitation)

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

0900 Delegates leave the hotels 0910 Arrival at the Convention Centre

Inaugural 1000 – 1230 hrs: 0915-1000 hrs: Registration at Convention Centre Islamabad 1015 hrs: Guests to be seated 1020 hrs: All gates closed 1030 hrs: Arrival of the Chief Guest 1035 hrs: Inaugural Session begins 1035 hrs: Recitation from the Holy Quran 1040 hrs: Formal welcome by the Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah MNA 1045 hrs: Policy Statement by Nawabzada Malik Ahmed Ali Khan,

Minister State for Foreign Affairs

1050 hrs: Keynote Address, Asma Jehangir, Chairperson HRCP 1110 hrs Address by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC 1120 hrs: Address by the Chief Guest PM of Pakistan 1140 hrs: Song by Tina Sani 1230 hrs: Lunch hosted by the Federal Ministry of Women Development

(Venue: Convention Centre)

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1400 hrs --- 1630 hrs Working Sessions

1. Women and Conflict Resolution

a. Chair: Ghazala Gola, Minister for Women Development, Balochistan

b. Discussants:

1. Hon. Rosy Senanayake, MP from Sri Lanka 2. Bushra Gohar MNA (ANP) 3. Anees Haroon (Chairperson NCSW) 4. Shazia Aurangzaib, MPA (PMLN) from Khyber

Pakhtoonkhwa 5. Dr. Farzana Bari (Expert)

2. Women and Security (Police Reforms, Domestic Violence Bill, Women at

Workplace Harassment Bill, and other women related domestic issues to be discussed under this head)

a. Chair: Shehla Raza, Deputy Speaker Sindh Assembly b. Discussants:

1. Shawkat Ara Begum, MP Bangladesh 2. Senator Shirala Malik (MQM) 3. Tauqir Fatima Bhutto, (Minister Women

Development, Sindh) 4. Saira Tarar MNA (PML-N) 5. Hina Jilani (Expert) 6. Saba Khatak, Member Social Sector, Planning

Commission of Pakistan 3. Effects of Conflict on Women - Plight of Internally Displaced Women

a. Chair: Sitara Ayaz, Provincial Minister, Khyber-Pakhtoonkwa b. Discussants:

1. Fauzia Koofi, MP from Afghanistan 2. Asma Arbab Alamgir (MNA) 3. Begum Noreen Arif, Minister, Azad Kashmir 4. Rahila Durani, MPA Balochistan 5. Robina Saigal, (Expert)

1530 hrs: Delegates leave for hotels 2000 hrs: Dinner hosted by the Prime Minister (strictly by Invitation only)

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Wednesday, May 26, 2010 0830 hrs: Delegates leave the hotels 0845 hrs: Arrival at the Convention Centre

0900 -1030 hrs: Second Plenary Chair: Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek 0900 hrs: Opening with the recitation from the Holy Quran 0905-0910 hrs: Overview of Peace and Security - Senator Nilofar Bakhtiar 0910 – 0920 hrs: Way to Economic Empowerment; A Case Study of BISP – Ms.

Farzana Raja, MNA/ Chairperson Benazir Income Support Program

0920 – 0930 hrs: Legislating for Empowerment; Harassment at Workplace Bill –

Ms. Yasmeen Rehman, MNA/Advisor to the Federal Ministry of Women Development

0930 – 0940 hrs: Women’s Struggle in Politics - Begum Tehmina Daultana

MNA/Former Minister for Women Development 0950 – 1000 hrs: Address by Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek 1000 – 1030 hrs: Tea Break Working Sessions from 1030 hrs – 1230 hrs

4. Engaging Media for Peace

a. Chair: Zaib Jaffar, Advisor to CM Punjab b. Discussants:

1. Representative from India 2. Khushbakht Shujaat (MNA) 3. Shazia Mari Provincial Minister for Information, Sindh 4. Zofeen Ibrahim (Expert) 5. Tasneem Ahmer (Expert)

5. Building Networks for Peace a. Chair: Saadia Danish MLA /Advisor to CM Gilgit-Baltistan b. Discussant:

1. Mrs. Thewang Lahmo, MP from Bhutan 2. Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, MNA 3. Dr. Ruquiya Hashmi, MPA, Balochistan 4. Khawar Mumtaz (Civil Society)

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5. Beena Sarwar, (Media) 6. Dr. Fouzia Saeed

6. Role Of The Women Caucuses In Legislation And Oversight Of Peace

And Security Issues Chair: Mrs. Mehrun Nisa, Deputy Speaker, Azad Jammu Kashmir

a. Discussant:

1. Hon’ble Ms. Mohammadi Siddiqi, MP/Chairperson Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Nepal

2. Senator Sughra Imam 3. Begum Ishrat Ashraf, MNA 4. Azma Bukhari, MPA Punjab 5. Rabia Hadi, Aurat Foundation

1245 hrs: Buses leave for Presidency 1300 hrs: Lunch at Presidency 1600 – 1700 hrs Closing Ceremony 1545 hrs Guests to return to the Convention Centre 1550 hrs Guests to be seated 1600 hrs: All Gates Closed 1605 hrs: Arrival of the Chief Guest 1610 hrs: Recitation of the Holy Quran 1615 hrs: Opening Remarks by the Secretary WPC 1620 hrs: Way Forward --- Keynote by Shahnaz Wazir Ali (Based upon

the recommendations of the 6 Sessions) 1630 hrs: Chairperson of the Drafting Committee reads out the

Declaration 1640 hrs: Address by the Speaker National Assembly 1650 hrs: The Secretary announces the closure of the Conference 1700 hrs: Refreshments

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ANNEXURE - 2: Convention Speeches Messages

- Message by the President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari - Message by the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani

DAY 1 Inaugural Session

- Formal welcome by the Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah MNA - Policy Statement by Nawabzada Malik Ahmed Ali Khan, Minister of State for

Foreign Affairs - Keynote Address by Asma Jehangir - Inaugural Speech by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC Dr.

Fehmida Mirza - Address by the Chief Guest Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani Prime Minister of

Pakistan DAY 3 Second Plenary Session

- Address by Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek - Way to Economic Empowerment; A Case Study of BISP – Ms. Farzana Raja,

MNA/ Chairperson Benazir Income Support Program - Legislating for Empowerment; Harassment at Workplace Bill – Ms. Yasmeen

Rehman, MNA/Advisor to the Federal Ministry of Women Development Presidency

- Speech by the President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari Closing Session

- Way Forward - Keynote by Shahnaz Wazir Ali (Based upon the recommendations of the six sessions)

- Dr. Attiya Inayatullah Chairperson Drafting Committee presenting Declaration

- Closing Speech by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC Dr. Fehmida Mirza

- Speech by Closure of Conference & Vote of Thanks by Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah MNA

Messages

- Message by the President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari - Message by Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani Prime Minister of Pakistan

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Message by the President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari I wish to congratulate the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus for organizing the first-ever National Convention of Women Parliamentarians on "The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace Building and Reconciliation" This National Convention today is a demonstration of awareness of our women parliamentarians to participate actively in efforts aimed at advancing the cause of gender equality and emancipation of women in the country. It also shows the keenness of the government to encourage women parliamentarians to press into service their full creative potential. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto said that women's rights were inseparable from human rights and that there was no human right more fundamental and more universal than equal rights for women. We need to carry forward this message and make the trend of women empowerment set by her irreversible. Pakistan has made several pledges at regional and international forums for the uplift and emancipation of women. In 1995 during the government of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Pakistan signed the landmark Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). I would urge this Convention to give a thought how best to implement the pledges made in the document on CEDA W for the uplift of women and ending all forms of discrimination against them. I also urge women parliamentarians to use this Convention to forge stronger links not only between themselves but also with all those struggling for gender equality and emancipation of women. I wish to compliment Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly for taking the initiative and the organizers for holding the "National Convention of women Parliamentarians" and wish them success. I also welcome all the women parliamentarians and participants to the Convention and wish them success in their deliberations and greater glory to them in the days to come.

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Message by the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani It is a historic moment in Pakistan's parliamentary history that women parliamentarians are getting together to discuss and review their role in the efforts for peace, security and reconciliation in the country. This represents a sea change today as the women parliamentarians are vigorously realizing their dream of active participation in the national affairs. On a personal level, it is a moment of fulfillment for me. I can see the dream of our great leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto becoming a reality. She strongly advocated women empowerment in every field of life. She believed that only those nations progress where women are an active partner in the national affairs. She was a powerful symbol of women empowerment who led the struggle for emancipation of womenfolk from the front. The historic enactment of Harassment of Women at Workplace Act is a tribute to the dedication of Shaheed Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto for the women cause. Besides this, Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is also aimed at empowering the women as they are the exclusive recipient of this financial support. The federal government has already increased the quota of women from 5% to 10% for recruitment into federal services. I am confident that the convention will produce a roadmap for strong involvement of women parliamentarians in framing up policies to ensure the active participation of women in the national decision-making. I have been following with interest· the activities of the Women's Parliamentary Caucus since its inception. I have a strong· conviction that Women Parliamentarians under the patronage of Dr. Fehmida Mirza Speaker National Assembly would· continue their efforts for the empowerment of their less fortunate sisters.

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Day 1 Inaugural Session

Formal welcome by the Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah MNA Policy Statement by Nawabzada Malik Ahmed Ali Khan, Minister of State for

Foreign Affairs Poem Recitation Keynote Address by Asma Jehangir Inaugural Speech by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC Dr.

Fehmida Mirza Address by the Chief Guest Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani Prime Minister of

Pakistan Formal welcome by the Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah, MNA Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani! Honorable Chairman Senate, Farooq Naik, Honorable, Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza Honorable UN Rapporteur on Religious Freedom and Belief, and Chairperson HRCP, Asma Jehangir, Speakers of the Provincial and Legislative Assemblies Honorable Federal and Provincial Ministers, Respected Parliamentarians form National Assembly, Senate and worthy Legislators form the Provincial Assemblies of Balochistan, Khber Pakhtunkhwa Sindh, Punjab, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan, Delegates of the Conference, Diplomats, members of the Civil Society, Officials Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen It is my pleasure to welcome you all on this two-day National Convention of the Women Parliamentarians examining "The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation" in Islamabad. Let me also take this opportc1Ility to thank the honorable Prime Minister for being here with us, to mark this important day. This is indeed a dream come true. Gathered here today, are women representatives from all assemblies and all parts of Pakistan. Also with us, to share this wonderful experience, are honorable parliamentarians from SAARC countries. It is extremely heartening to see them with us, reinforcing our sense of a common regional vision that needs to be built for the people of our countries. Such a ‘coming together' is indeed a strength, and speaking on the importance of this, industrialist Henry ford once said:

- Coming together is a beginning; - Keeping together is progress; - Working together is success.

We, the women parliamentarians, by coming together today, have made a new beginning. We hope that we will keep together, and finally work together - fix Success. Allow me to retell, that during her 2nd term of office, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto conceived the idea of women parliamentarians joining forces, to host the first ever Conference of Muslim Women Parliamentarians in Islamabad in 1995.

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And then, with the leadership of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, I Honorable Speaker of the National Assembly, / this non-partisan Women's Parliamentary Caucus has become a milestone in the country’s parliamentary history; II and, by all means, a boost to the cause of Women's rights in Pakistan. At this moment in time, when nearly 22 per cent women are the elected to the central and provincial legislatures, members of the Women Parliamentary Caucus have very effectively engaged in creating a space for themselves within the Parliament / as well as outside, by making allies, inroads and linkages. We have devised a platform to take up gender concerns at all levels, ensuring that norms promoting Women’s rights and empowerment, arc translated into national legislations. Having said that, I take a lot of pride when I inform you that the well-attended General Assembly meetings of the Caucus have acquired an "informal status" of "Parliamentary Hearings", where matters of critical concern are discussed, and shared with all key stakeholders. The bipartisan nature of this Caucus has encouraged its Members to raise, / listen! and focus /on issues beyond their respective party lines, and form independent and rational opinions. Proposing Reforms in women policing, I debating policies to prevent violence against women, / discussions to enhance women's economic empowerment // or deliberating on the performance of institutions like the Women's Police Stations, National Commission on the Status of Women, Ministry of Women Development and First Women's Bank i have all yielded, highly positive results in bringing reforms in all concerned areas. Women Parliamentarians have also been sensitive towards the concern for IDP’s and have looked through the operational problems and other initiatives for the women amongst them. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen: Our Caucus attributes its formation to the legacy of three exceptionally valuable women of all times: II Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, // Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan, // and // Shaheed Mohtarma Banzair Bhutto, Of course, it also dedicates itself to all women rights activists, who have remained in the fore-front of women's movement in Pakistan ... (stress this point aheac0 Women remain among the primary shapers of Pakistan’s political consciousness. The leading woman voice during the freedom struggle, // Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, // "always" believed, in the message of "partnership- on-equal-basis". She reached the zenith of her political accomplishment, when towards the end of her life, in 1965, II she defied tradition, i and challenged dictatorship, // and contested against it, as the "unanimous candidate" of all the opposition parties, Begum Rana Liaqat AIi Khan ... An epitomy of social mobilization formed "Women National Guards" and "Pakistan Women Naval Reserve, as well as "All Pakistan Women's Association // - II APWA" ... Her services, in promoting women's empowerment, will long be remembered ...

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And then, the only woman of Pakistan, to have made world-history, remains Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto! ... The world's youngest, // the Muslim World's first // and Pakistan's 'only' woman Prime Minister! She is the symbol, of the finer social values of democracy, I liberalism, / tolerance, and hope // in a society that suffered dark rules under dictatorships. // The tragedy of her assassination, has reinforced the need for across-the-board political reconciliation, and national integration,// apolitical philosophy that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto vigorously advocate, in her lifetime, and which is largely accepted today as her last legacy. On the very last page of her book, which was to become the finale of her life's work, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto writes:

It is the time for new ideas; It is time for creativity; It is for bold commitment; And it is time for honesty both among people and between people; That is what I have tried to do in these pages; There has been enough pain; It is time for reconciliation.

Benazir Bhutto fought all her battles, through dialogue, and political debate, II and was an example to all those, who do not use, or surrender to terrorism.... And yes, she did profoundly believe that courage is 'indeed' the price that Life exacts, for granting peace. It was her contention, that dictatorship breeds extremism, II and that, "democracies do not go to war with other democracies" II and II "do not become state sponsors of terrorism." Now..., the people of Pakistan suffer from the effects of instability 'everyday', II caused by the On-going hostilities, as a result of militancy / on the western front. .. And the social, / economic, and security implications, are felt by the whole country. Needless to say, such a situation threatens peace in the region as well. As the great Quaid reiterated: "Our object should be peace within, and peace without. We want to live peacefully and maintain cordial friendly relations with our immediate neighbors’ and! with the world at large." This demands immediate and collective vision and action for security, peace and order, / which will not only ensure an end to violence, but will also provide sustainable base for development and progress, / with special consideration for the vulnerable sections of the society, / particularly women and children. We believe that this also demands" meaningful role of women at all levels or decision making // especially in matters related to peace-building and security. Pakistan's current democratic order, / despite all upheavals, / testifies that the cherished legacy, "reconciliation", has answers to many of our problems. Here let me congratulate the President and the Prime Minister and all political parties for passing the 181h Constitutional Amendments, which was a1.so the fruit of reconciliation. Reconciliation does not only have national but also regional, historical and geographical dimensions. National Convention of Women Parliamentarians is an effort that aims at

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bringing together women parliamentarians from all parts of the country, to join hands for pursing a joint vision, on the given national agenda. We seek to broaden these horizons, and to reach out, beyond the trappings of geopolitical, historical compulsions, for the larger good of the people of Pakistan, and ultimately for the region. Hence, by taking lip such a crucial agenda for discussion, / this Convention, is expected to bring out recommendations for a roadmap, in creating national consensus on the role of women parliamentarians / in peace, / security and reconciliation. The Convention objectives include:

Strengthening the role of women parliamentarians in the ongoing geo-political situation;

Creating a community of women leaders across party lines, / who stand together on issues of national concern;

Raising a strong and united voice, for peace and stability in the region Creating a network of women parliamentarians with a common agenda for

women empowerment, and participation at all levels of decision making; and Involving the civil society for development and progress of women.

Ladies and Gentlemen

As my closing remark, I want to celebrate women's spirit, of our ability to rise against all odds. That is what makes women indispensable to peace building. Let us rise to the occasion, let us unite to make our country safer, our region peaceful. Let me end this with a verse from poem by civil rights activist and poet Maya Angelou, writing of the women's strength and resilience in the face of adversity: Out of the huts of history’s shame I rise Up form a past that’s rooted in pain I rise I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide, Welling and swelling I bear in the tide. Leaving behind nights of terror and fear I rise Into a day break that’s wondrously clear I rise Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and hope of the slave. I rise I rise I rise Thank you very much

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Policy Statement by Nawabzada Malik Ahmed Ali Khan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Honourable Dr Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly, Ms. Nafisa Shah, Secretary Women's Parliamentary Caucus, Members of the Women's Parliamentary Caucus, Representatives of the Civil Society, It is an honour and privilege to be here at the National Convention of Women Parliamentarians on "The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace Building and Reconciliation ". I would like to congratulate Women’s Parliamentary Caucus for taking the initiative and for choosing this specific subject. Pakistan has the unique distinction of electing the first ever woman Prime Minister in an Islamic country. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was a role model and a source of inspiration for women all over the world. She was and remains a beacon of hope for teeming millions in this country even after her martyrdom. Shaheed Mohtarma, in her last book "Reconciliation: Islam, Democracy, and the West" has bequeathed philosophy of reconciliation of create a socially cohesive, politically stable and economically vibrant society in Pakistan. The democratically elected government remains committed to realize this dream against all odds. During the past two years, Pakistan has crossed several milestones aimed at the political, economic and social empowerment of women in the country. Promoting and protecting women's right and ensuring their due role in the nation building process has been among the top priorities of the elected government. Today the women of Pakistan can rightly take pride that their own elected representatives have been effectively safeguarding their rights and robustly advocating for their political empowerment.

t The presence of the Speaker National Assembly, Honourable Dr. Fahmeeda Mirza amongst us here is a testimony to the political achievements of Pakistani women and a reminder of the great legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. This legacy will continue to motivate us all for a much larger role by Pakistani women in the political, economic, social, cultural and administrative spheres of national life. Ladies and Gentlemen Political empowerment of women remains among priority areas for the government. The women legislators in the Parliament are playing a proactive role for the empowerment and equal participation of women in the national mainstream. The Women Parliamentary Caucus has played an active role in the adoption of gender-sensitive legislation like the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2009 and the protection against harassment of women at the work place Bill 2010 by the Parliament. The Caucus has also ensured effective Parliamentary oversight on our national and international commitments with regard to women empowerment.

The government also attaches high importance to economic independence of women to enable them to take charge of their lives. The Benazir Income Support Programme has helped hundreds of thousands of female headed households to manage their lives with dignity and honour. The programme is receiving all-round praise and support even from the international organizations. The government is committed to further strengthen this programme to give hope and strength to every woman in the country. In another landmark decision, it has been decided to allot small units of state-owned land to poor female-headed households as a step towards economic and social empowerment of women.

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Ladies and Gentlemen It is a common knowledge that women suffer disproportionately in situations of armed conflict, civil strife, natural disasters and population displacements. We all witnessed this painful reality during the catastrophic earthquake which rocked Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and other part of the country in October 2005 as well as during the recent displacement of population in Swat and other parts of Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa province. Even in extreme situations women play the central role in holding the families together, building homes and communities through their commitment, perseverance and patience. They indeed can provide the proverbial, soft touch in preserving social order and promoting peace building efforts in broken and devastated societies. We have seen in our own society how bravely women manage upbringing and good education of their children after losing bread-earners of the family. There are numerous instances where children from such families have achieved extraordinary success in life. I salute the courage and perseverance of these brave women. Ladies and Gentlemen

Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed led the Pakistan delegation to the Fourth World Conference held in Beijing in 1995. The Beijing Platform of Action adopted at the Conference clearly states that full participation of women in decision making, conflict prevention and peace initiatives is essential to the realization of lasting peace. We remain committed to this ideal and support women involvement in reconciliation and peace building efforts. Pakistan launched. This National Plan of Action covering all developed areas of concern in the Beijing Platform of Action in 1998. We also actively contributed towards the five year; ten year and fifteen year reviews of implementation of Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action. Pakistan is fully complying with its international obligations for promoting and protecting rights of women and providing them equal opportunities in the society. Pakistan is State Party to the Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDA W) and Convention on the Rights of the Child. Pakistan is also a party to the SAARC Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children and is actively cooperating with the regional countries for its effective implementation. The civil society and media play an important role in raising awareness about rights and obligations among the public. The civil society organizations and media are doing a commendable job in this context. It is heartening to note that lately media has been giving considerable attention to social issues to remind the people about their civic responsibilities. It is my hope and desire that all segments of society and institutions will play their due role in creating a just, cohesive and peaceful society. And I am confident that the women of Pakistan will make an equal contribution in our march towards a bright and prosperous future. I thank you ladies and gentlemen

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Keynote Address by Asma Jehangir (Part 1)

Prime Minister, Madam Speaker, Ministers, Honorable Parliamentarians, Diplomats, Foreign delegates and Ladies and Gentlemen, Let me at the outset thank you for extending the honor of delivering a keynote at this important conference. Pakistan’s women activists lobbied hard and tirelessly to convince legislators that special seats for women in the Parliament were vital in advancing the concept of pluralistic democracy. At the grass-roots too, women's presence is crucial. They are the first to discover the ill-effects of poor governance. Their contributions at the community level are often ignored or at best taken as general social roles attributed to women’s networking. The emphasis was not simply to have reserved seats for women in Parliaments and local Governments, but to ensure that the strength of women forms a critical mass that can transform the male complexion of these institutions. We have reached far but we need to go much further. While reserved seats for women in the National Assembly were provided for in the original 1973 Constitution, the quota was 10% and its existence was time bound, which lapsed. Woefully it was restored with greater strength by a Parliament under a dictator's regime. We had hoped otherwise. The Women's Commission of Nasir Aslam Zahid had proposed a number of formulas for special seats. The underlying principles were that these methods adopted were to provide women an opportunity to farm their constituencies, have direct interaction with the electorate and eventually to join the mainstream. Madam Speaker, let me wholeheartedly congratulate you and your worthy colleagues for forming the women's caucus. It is the right step and has immense potential. It would be another milestone to introduce an electoral process for women’s reserved seats that are more democratic and empowering. A constitutional initiated by the caucuses itself could be a legacy that you can share. You have opened your doors to civil society and they, I am certain, will always co-operate fully in providing expertise and suggestions to any constructive agenda pursued by the Women's Caucus in the Parliament. As you may well understand, we co-operate but must never be co-opted and therefore civil society must remain vigilant in addressing, criticizing and coaxing Parliamentarian in playing a more effective role. Friends, in Pakistan, but also in the region, we are surrounded by conflicts, emerging tensions post conflict situations and attempts at reconciliation. Women, particularly, women Parliamentarians of this region have a unique opportunity to play a lead role in peace building addressing a new vision of a security paradigm and develop skills at reconciliation. Our women leaders have paid heavily in the face of violence. All of us (no matter from whichever divide) remain deeply shocked at the assassination of Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. On her last meeting with members of. Civil society - some two weeks - before her tragic death - she defended her reconciliation efforts and said with great emotion, “enough of suffering, enough of bloodshed, I cannot allow my party activists to suffer forever". Little did she know the sacrifice she was fated to offer as women’s and as peace builders, we urge the government to bring the perpetrators of her murder to justice. For her sake and for building better confidence in the system. Indira Gandhi lost her life in the most brutal manner. She too was a fine leader of her country. Hasina Wajid and Chandrika Kumara Tunga were both victims of violence.

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Women leaders of South Asia have personal courage and the ability to take up hard challenges. Let us also most passionately pay homage to Dow Aung San Sui Kyi, who continues to be incarcerated for nearly two decade for the cause of democracy, peace and reconciliation. Today’s women’s role in conflict, peace and reconciliation has globally been recognized. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 was unanimously adopted by members of the Council on 31 October 2000. It was not passed in a vacuum. Women had galvanized support for it. War crimes against women were documented. There was deep resentment against reconciliation efforts where impunity was granted to perpetrators of serious crimes, including mass rapes. The head of UNIFEM, challenged international players by retorting that, warlords were welcome to negotiating tables, whereas women were kept away. Resolution 1325, recognized for the first time the disproportionate and unique impact of armed conflict on women; recognized the under-valued and under-utilized contributions women make to conflict prevention, peacekeeping, conflict resolution and peace building. It also stressed the importance of women's equal and .full participation as active agent in peace and security. Key provisions of SCR 1325 are: Increased participation and representation of women at all levels of decisions-making. Attention to specific protection needs of women and girls in conflict Gender perspective in post-conflict process, UN programming, Security Council missions and training in UN peace support operations. There remains however a huge gap between the rhetoric of Resolution 1325 and its implementation. Nerveless, since 2000, the United Nations has taken some steps in giving this resolution more visibility. In March 2010 the UN Secretary General appointed a civil society expert group to assess the impact of the Resolution of women in the context of armed conflict over the past decade. The Resolution binds us all and on this foundation women Parliamentarians could build national think tanks to translate words of the resolution into action. Such national think tanks should open their doors to civil society, victims and experts. At the regional level, Reconciliation platform headed by women Parliamentarians can provide space for women of different nationalities, regions, ethnic background and religious affiliations to develop skills at detecting, through monitoring, early warning signs of conflict as well as of strategies for prevention and of reconciliation. Our region is rich in its diversity but its strength is often also its weakness as religious and ethnic differences are vulnerable to exploitation. Women's role in maintaining peace is central. Rwanda, Northern Ireland, Nepal, Afghanistan - Kosovo, DRC, East Timor. E.g. Suicides Nepal. The Women's Parliamentary Caucus has a challenging task within the country too. A. healing touch is very much needed in Balochistan, where Baloch nationalists have been a victim of State oppression for several decades. Target killings are on the increase and innocent people are being victimized. Sectarian and ethnic conflicts abound. The Northern part of our country is in conflict or post conflict trauma. Their pain has to be shared. It is often women who heal and prompt the conscience of the nation – let us start with right here, where peace, security and reconciliation are vital. Thank you.

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Keynote Address by Asma Jehangir (Part 2) We can work with our differences even without burying them. We can keep our identity intact while openly trying to understand others’ identities. The resolution binds us all. At the regional level women Parliamentarians, with co-operation of civil society could work together to set up an institute for peace building and reconciliation. The institute could assist in bringing women of different nationalities, religious affiliations and ethnicity to respect their differences during emerging conflicts. Sometimes women too promote violence. Many loyalist women and children in Northern Ireland visibly supported violence during conflict. In Rwanda, many women encouraged revenge for the dead. In Eritrea, Sri Lanka, South Africa and across Latin America, women were one-third of the guerrilla armies. In Nepal too, a number of Maoist militant were women, who had role models armed to their teeth. Therefore, while we can assume that women are potential peace builders but not take it all for granted. The value of peace is a value that has also to reach the female population of South Asia. An institute designed to foster peace can be a home for rich debate and collection of information because of partnership of women Parliamentarians of all political shades and its co-operation with civil society and experts. Skills could be developed for detecting early signs of conflict as well as strategies for prevention and reconciliation. Our region is rich in its diversity but its strength is often also its weakness – as religious and ethnic differences are vulnerable to exploitation. While women are in some cases actors in armed conflicts, more women are victims of conflict. Internal conflicts are not fought in battlefields but in villages and town. The worst example was during 1994 Rwanda genocide where up to 500,000 women were raped. In the case of Bangladesh it was also a staggering figure. In Nepal suicide rate of women has increased sharply due to post conflict trauma. There is now evidence that women experience armed conflict in a different way than men. It makes women particularly vulnerable where they live traditional roles. Exceptionally, it can be a time of empowerment as they take over roles traditionally performed by men. As victims of violence, often not initiated by women they have an absolute right to also be present at the negotiating tables. In Afghanistan, women activists welcome the end of the war, but cautioned that there can be no peace without justice. There are some basic principles of peace building and in the process of reconciliation – peace can not simply be absence of violence, it must provide basic rights and freedom from fear. Reconciliation can be managed by honest brokers in a transparent manner, so that all the stakeholders are party to the process, rather than a few, who gain from such a process. Most importantly, reconciliation must not be reached at the cost of other peoples’ rights – for example, certain traditional forms of reaching reconciliation, where a murderer’s family sends a female family member to join the murder victim’s family—but not all traditional forms are reconciliation impinge upon women’s rights. In the early 1990s, the white scarf movement in America tried to use the old custom of women breaking up fights between men by waiving white scarves to intervene in the conflict between America and Azerbaijan – such work for

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reconciliation is seen as natural extension of women’s role in society, it is taken for granted. However, studies now show that women have special skills at reconciliation—they are better listeners, have better knowledge of local needs and are practical and even persistent—several examples exists. Women demanding basic amenities, rather than look for fine words. A famous quote bearing ‘’ you cannot dance if you can not stand’’. Women in black in Belgrade provided the only sustained public opposition to conflict in former Yugoslavia. The association of new Filipina (kabapa) managed a temporary ceasefire between combatants so that children could be vaccinated. The best known mother’s movement in Argentina, mothers of the plaza de mayo helped to hasten the end of the Batista regime. For 6 years I served as UN special rapporteur of extra judicial killings—it took me to post conflict place In Macedonia—Serbs/Albanian East Timor—my conscience did not let me sleep Afghanistan—brave women—loya jirga DRC --- son / gun Darfur

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Inaugural Speech by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC Dr. Fehmida Mirza

- Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan! - Speakers of the Provincial and Legislative Assemblies! - Nawabzada Amaad Khan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs! - Nafisa Shah, Secretary, Women’s Parliamentary Caucus! - Asma Jahangir, Chairperson Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and the

UN Rapporteur on Religious Freedom and Belief! - International and .national delegates of the National Convention of Women

Parliamentarians! Assalam-o-Alaikum! It' is indeed a momentous day for the women of Pakistan in particular and of South Asia in general when a historic leap forward is being made in the direction of a meaningful participation of women leaders for peace, security and reconciliation. I am most humbled and grateful to all delegates, associate delegates and our guests, especially my sister parliamentarians from the SAARC Region, who have come with a conviction to turn a new page in our respective socio-political orders. My sincere gratitude is also due to our President and Prime Minister for their personal interest and support in organizing this first-ever National Convention of Women Parliamentarians. The encouragement by this Government spells its commitment towards the ideals of women empowerment --- a goal that always remained very close to the heart of our leader --- South Asia's most illustrious daughter Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Her contributions will always be remembered for setting the agenda for women rights and empowerment in Pakistan. Significant moves were then made with the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Women Development, adoption of a National Plan of Action for Women, subsequent signing of the CEDAW Convention through a consultative process and opening of new vistas for their economic progress. Since then, women have come a long way in attaining the position that they have achieved today. We have been successful in carving constituencies and creating spaces for ourselves in all echelons of the society. With an over 22 percent representation in the National Legislature, Pakistan ranks respectable on the Inter Parliamentary Union's Graphs. This rise is also reflected in the provincial legislatures. Such a numerical strength must translate into opportunities. The formation of a broad-based, across party lines and an all-inclusive Women's Parliamentary Caucus reflects one such opportunity. It's an opportunity to work collectively on building consensus on an agreed agenda. I congratulate all Members of the Caucus on their success and thank the entire democratic leadership of our country for redrawing the political landscape in the

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spirit of national reconciliation. It is this very spirit, which is also reflected in the Caucus. This alliance for change has given the women parliamentarians a sense of confidence, which is reflected in their growing participation in the legislative business. Statistics reveal that the 22 percent bench of the House makes up for its 60 percent business. This means we mean business; and a serious business! Having said that, may I also remind my honorable parliamentarians that any move to law making without the validation of women will always be questionable, controversial and thus unacceptable. For a progressive society, the principle of shared power and collective responsibility must be adopted. No democratic house should ignore this established dictum. I, therefore, take the opportunity of the presence of our provincial and legislative Speakers and recall our joint declaration, adopted on the' conclusion of the 12th Speakers' Conference. This Declaration recognized the Women's Caucus as a model to be replicated. We all keenly look forward to such initiatives. Ladies and Gentlemen Since the very offset, the new millennium has seen turbulence and instability around the world. Natural disasters, coupled with the mounting global terrorism, are serious concerns, especially for South Asia. Human security issues and displacements have been on the rise in the region while the ensuing militancy has further added to the existing challenges. And this goes without saying the women and children are the worst affected in all such scenarios. So how should we, as women leaders, address this growing menace?

By forging close networks and extending the caucus idea on the regional level;

By devising joint strategies for mutual progress and; By mounting collective pressures on our respective governments for

accepting women participation on the peace-negotiation tables and reconstruction processes.

This calls for women's enhanced and stronger role at decision making levels across the board. The idea of this Convention stems from this need. The theme and the subsequent topics of the Working sessions spell out the opportunities and challenges, which we all are confronted with. These forums will provide a chance to our delegates to deliberate on critical issues and share experiences. I eagerly look forward to an intensive debate, which gives way to concrete and doable recommendations. I would also like to acknowledge the presence of women rights' activists and media in this Convention. Their support in these endeavors is imperative and welcoming. We look forward to a stronger partnership in achieving the goals, set by this Convention. And before I conclude, I also hope that in the midst of the heated session, you get some time out to explore what the beautiful city of Islamabad has to offer you. I also wish all of you, especially our respected delegates from the SAARC

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Countries, a very pleasant and comfortable stay in Islamabad. I thank you very much. Pakistan Paindabad

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Address by the Chief Guest Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani Prime Minister of Pakistan Madam Speaker, Honorable Members, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is indeed a great pleasure for me to address the national convention on the role of women parliamentarians in peace, security and reconciliation. I congratulate madam speaker for bringing together women members of the national assembly, the senate, the four provincial assemblies, legislative assembly of Gilgit Baltistan, and Azad Jammu Kashmir to review, discuss and plan the role of women parliamentarians in peace building and reconciliation. I would also like to extend a special welcome to the esteemed members of the parliaments from the SAARC region including Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh and India. Indeed the role of women parliamentarians from the SAARC countries in making peace and promoting reconciliation through dialogue within the region holds a great promise to improve the lot of one fifth of world population. Tension in the region is not helping any country rather diverting precious resources to non-developmental sectors. Therefore every effort to promote peace and reconciliation is audible. Many countries including our on have shown that when women become a central part of the political decision making process, there is a greater chance for positive social change and sustainable peace. Ladies and Gentlemen! While discussing the role of women parliamentarians for peace and reconciliation, I will strongly urge them to recall the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. She always wanted to be remembered mainly for what she did for the women, and how her efforts made a difference in the lives of the common person – whether it is in population control, expressing domestic violence, or giving women access and opportunities to become economically independent. It is with this vision that we are taking on the battle for peace, stability and prosperity of Pakistan and its people against the forces that want conflict and mayhem. I am heartened by the fact that women parliamentarians have also decided to be part of this struggle, which we will, Insha Allah, win. Our great leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto had aptly said that the people of Pakistan want change ---- change from a climate of threat to one of stability and prosperity. And we cannot achieve this aim without the participation of women. The convention marks a watershed in the parliamentary history of Pakistan. The presence of the high percentage of women legislature in our assemblies today is a proof that we are translating Mohtarma’s dream into reality. Women parliamentarians’ outstanding performance in the legislative interests in addressing matters of national and international importance.

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Indeed, the legislative business cannot be validated without the participation and consent of women parliamentarians. Their role is critical to establish true democratic procedures. Ladies and Gentlemen! Pakistan is in the midst of fight against extremism. The people and the armed forces are valiantly rendering sacrifices to save the country from the clutches of forces that want to move the country backward, not forward. Pakistan’s leadership is fully alert to the dangers terror posses to Pakistan and its people, which as you are discussing at this important event, have an extra and sometimes unique impact on women, girls and on family life. Women are among the most vulnerable victims of conflict and violence and they are often the last to speak about their ordeal. You – in this audience -- are among the most important voices for these women in Pakistan and the region laws – and strong oversight of these laws – to protect the most vulnerable. Ladies and Gentlemen! The majority of our parliamentarians have shown their commitment to gender equality in all spheres of life and they are addressing critical issues and problems faced by women in Pakistan. The government believes in women empowerment to ensure equal rights through economic, social legal and political measure. The Pakistan people’s party is especially proud that Dr. Fehmida Mirza is the only women speaker of a house of parliament in the Muslim world. It is under her able leadership that an active women caucus with representation of all parties is working in the parliament, and which is also the driving force behind this historic convention. With the active participation of women parliamentarians, the government is amending discriminatory laws. The criminal law (Amendment) act 2009has been enacte4d, whereas the protection against harassment of women at the workplace bill, 2010 has also been enforces. These laws would serve as deterrent to the issue of harassment at workplace and provide opportunity to young women to join private and public sector without any fear. A draft domestic violence bill, 2009 is also in the process of enactment meanwhile, the numbers of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto centers for women are being increased to provide immediate relief to the victims of violence. Legislation to enable women to own property and assets is also being formulated. Ladies and Gentlemen!

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The struggle for improving the lot of the women in Pakistan is continuing and in this endeavor I look forward to cooperation from the women parliamentarians. By working across party lines, women parliamentarians can become catalyst for change that will ultimately not just benefit the women of Pakistan, but their children, fathers, husbands and brothers. I will be keenly following the deliberations at this important convention, and I am confident that under the leadership of madam speaker, women parliamentarians will come up with concrete measures for peace and prosperity of Pakistan as well as the whole region. Thank you, Pakistan Paindabad.

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DAY 2 Second Plenary Session

Address by Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek Way to Economic Empowerment; A Case Study of BISP – Ms. Farzana Raja,

MNA/ Chairperson Benazir Income Support Program Legislating for Empowerment; Harassment at Workplace Bill – Ms. Yasmeen

Rehman, MNA/Advisor to the Federal Ministry of Women Development Address by Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek BISMILLAH IRAHMAN- IRAHIM Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentleman! Assalam-o-Alaikum! It is indeed a great pleasure and privilege for me to participate in this august forum and to share my views and experience with our distinguished guests, friends from diplomatic corps and luminaries. Especially it is a great occasion for our country as our respectable colleagues from the parliaments of India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka have graced this occasion with their presence. It is really an important moment because all of us are gathered here to highlight the "Role of Women Parliamentarians in Conflict Resolution and Peace". I would like to point out that this world will not be a place of peaceful living without effective role and competitive efforts on the part of women because they are constituting more than half of this world. How can it be imagined that the world will be a place of peaceful and secure living without effective role of half of its population. Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen! I am proud to share with you that our history is indebted to great women who had changed the course of history. Similarly, in all parts of world and in all communities, Women had played leadership role either directly or indirectly by supporting their men. It is also a well-established fact that success is not possible without the help of women in a family, social or a leadership role. Let me also say that our today's democratic system of governance is blessed due to efforts of a great woman leader of our nation and this world. She is Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto who had made efforts to unite this nation and country together with her political philosophy and vision as well as policy of reconciliation. She was the first women Prime Minister in the Islamic world. She was the best example and a role model for today's and future parliamentarians. Today's Pakistan where women are playing different important roles is only due to efforts and steps taken by Mohtrama for women empowerment. Prior to her premiership it was hard to believe that a woman may become the head of Government or Prime Minister in an Islamic State. She was a visionary leader who had united this nation and also gave a document of political significance which is known as "Charter of Democracy". It symbolizes her concept of participatory democracy as well as her Doctrine of Reconciliation. She said during her speech on 1st March, 1989:

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"Women constitute 51 per cent of our population. The future of Pakistan and progress of its people is, therefore, inevitably linked to equal and fair participation of women in various walks of life. Without this participation, we cannot progress. As believers. We are proud that Islam has conferred a unique status upon women in a Muslim society.". I would like to say that she had taken the first step to begin with long journey of women empowerment. Today the women have proved that they can play their role effectively in all fields of social and political life. Ladies and Gentlemen We are living in a world peace of which hangs on regional, interstate and intra-state armed conflicts, militancy and terrorism. Pakistan, at the moment, is the worst sufferer of terrorism due to different reasons. Women are' also equal victim of terrorist activities. There is a need that we all should work together without any discrimination of gender because there is no gender of terrorism, militancy and sabotage. Peace of one country is also dependent on peace of other then why should not be together in all such efforts for peace and security. Sustainable growth and development in any society and country is not possible without sustainable peace and security. Doctrine of Reconciliation of Shaheed Mohtrama is equally good for conflict resolution, taking measures for peace at international and regional levels. Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen! Women are the 'worst victims of any such actions which are threat to peace and security, internally or externally. Similarly, women are ambassadors of peace and harmony as they are less biased as compared to men due to their psychology. Thus, you and women of your country, if having interaction at regional and international levels, can promote international peace and security. Particularly, the interaction and collaboration of women parliamentarians will strengthen a voice in their respective parliaments for conflict resolution and peace. Ladies and Gentlemen! Shaheed Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto was the torch-bearer of her father's mission of a democratic, progressive and tolerant Pakistan. She had translated the struggle of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto into a new concept of reconciliation which may unite the dispersed communities into a nation. After her shahadat, now President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani are also adhering to her policy and doctrine of reconciliation. Today, all parliamentary forces are united for the cause and security of this country. The exemplary expression of national unity is the Constitution (Eighteenth Amendment) Act, 2010. Ladies and Gentlemen! There is no doubt that legislators or the parliamentarians are harbingers of a change in social, economic and political life of a nation. Parliament is the place which translates social, economic and political ideologies into enforceable realities through effective legislation. I proudly accept the role of our women parliamentarians during legislative process and for introducing Bills particularly for protection of right of Women which was a neglected area of legislation due to different reasons. In addition to their participation In Government's legislation, women parliamentarians have introduced many Private Members’ Bills. All this is the proof that women parliamentarians have equal worth and caliber in parliamentary and legislative

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matters. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2010 (Act I of 20l0) and the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010 (Act V of 2010) are two landmark legislation in recent past which meant for protection of women rights. In democratic societies, Parliaments are representative and reflective of all colours of life and population of a country and a place to develop national consensus and unity. All forces of violence become non-violent and logical in a parliamentary forum. Sense is prevailing over brute force. Please let me say that lour parliamentary forums that Senate, National Assemblies and Provincial Assemblies are now more civilized and qualitatively better places as compared to those legislatures of past where there was no of scarce women representation. There is no doubt when women are in decision-making and policy-making, they are certainly contributing tremendously for betterment of society and in the national interest. They are neither lacking quality nor responsibility while making or participating in decision-making. Here I would like to say that Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto may be followed as a role model by all women parliamentarians particularly who are beginners in politics and parliament. Ladies and Gentlemen! It is important to note that today women in Parliament and Assemblies represent all schools of thought and political ideologies. They have changed the colour and quality of legislatures. Due to presence of women in legislatures, other women of the country feel more secure and safe as their voice is well-heard in all matters in the corridors of power. They are not weaker now but able to protect their rights and even to make struggle for protection of their rights. Now' women are ready to face the challenges of 21st century in an empowered manner. Ladies and Gentlemen! It is the policy of present Government to make the women more empowered so that they should become equal guarantors of peace and security in this country, region as well as at international level. Today our women are boldly and confidently representing at all national and international forums. Ladies and Gentlemen! In the end, I would like to say and also emphasize that no nation or society can develop and prosper without recognizing the role of women on the basis of equality and without discrimination. Thank You! Pakistan Paindabad

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Way to Economic Empowerment; A Case Study of BISP – Ms. Farzana Raja, MNA / Chairperson Benazir Income Support Program Let me start by thanking the honorable Speaker of the National' Assembly and the Chair of this Women Parliamentarian Caucus Dr. Fehmida Mirza and her team for organizing this Convention and for providing me the opportunity to share with you the role played by the Benazir Income Support Programme for the empowerment of women in our society. I am sure you all remember the promise made by our great leader Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto while drafting the, Manifesto of our party when she said that "we promise to give high priority to the empowerment of women and to ensure their equal rights". I am equally sure that you all very much remember the very first objective we all set for the very existence of this Women Parliamentary Caucus during the first meeting of our General Assembly in November 2008, which was: They get their rights; every woman of Pakistan has the right to a decent livelihood, adequate, housing, education for her children, access to health facilities, respect in the society and a future to look forward to; and above all a life of independence and self esteem. We at BISP are putting our best efforts for the attainment of these long cherished ideals of empowered, dignified and emancipated women, so very close to the heart of our great leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Woman is the main focus of BISP. We at BISP are working to alleviate the sufferings and to improve the status of our women folk. BISP benefits like quarterly cash transfers of Rs.3000 and long term interest free financial assistance of Rs.300, OOO under Waseela-e-Haq.. Under Waseela-e-Haq programme, soft loans are given to the female beneficiaries to start their own business enabling them & their family to move out of the vicious poverty trap. Only women member of the family can be recipient of and sole proprietor of the business under Waseela-e-Haq programme. However, she can authorize any members of her family to run the business of her family on her behalf. Thus elevating her status in the conventional household of our society. Our proposed packages of Health Insurance and Vocational Training are to be launched in the near future, and targeted towards the welfare of our women. Even the Technical Training female beneficiary would nominate a next of kin (either male or female) for receiving the training. Under this program, one member of each beneficiary family will be imparted vocational/technical training free-of cost to become a source of respectable income generation for the family. Similarly, health insurance coverage of Rs.25, OOO per family. would be provided through the female of the family. Health Insurance will cover full hospitalization, pregnancy, daycare treatment diagnostic tests and accident compensation for earning members of the family to a maximum Limit of Rs.25000. This would particularly include the mother and child health care thus ensuring the healthy sustenance of our mothers and children. We are also confident that through these initiatives we are facilitating and creating employment opportunities not only for women but also for millions of youth of our nation who are waiting for decent employment opportunities. We all know how badly the ongoing war on terror has affected our economy; marginalized and that the under privileged sections of society are most vulnerable to any economic shock and have suffered the most both in physical as well as material terms. Realizing their ordeal in general and of their women n particular BISP has launched an Emergency Relief Package under which benefits of Rs.12, 000 per family are being distributed to more

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than verified IDPs from Swat and Malakand through Benazir Cards. Similarly, we know that most of the unfortunate victims of cowardly acts of terrorism like bomb explosions leave the victims like women and children in a state of extreme dejection, desperation and destitute. To share the grief arid misery of such families, we have included them in our programme too. Apart from these tangible measures taken for the empowerment of women, we are also taking steps which could be instrumental in changing the psychological mindset of our predominantly conventional society. The newly introduced Benazir Smart Card is one of these steps. 'Women of these 'marginalized sections of society would hold their destiny in their hands in the shape of this card as all the above benefits would be transferred and implemented through this Smart Card. This card would be a key to empowerment for the underprivileged women of our society even living in the remotest areas of the country. Moreover, directly we are also working for giving the women of our nation their identity. Without a proper identity card they were a non-existing entity with no present and even bleaker future prospects. They were treated as an insignificant commodity. By making the CNIC holder ship as a prerequisite for being the beneficiary of BISP we have made sure that the males of their families give women their identity. As a .result the rate of female registration under NADRA has picked up considerable pace. We at BISP are trying our best to ensure provision of food, shelter, clothing and opportunities to work, to the most under-privileged, most neglected and most forsaken segments of our society; and unfortunately our women fall in all these categories. BISP's endeavors are also in consonance with and targeted towards the achievement of two of the most important points of Millennium Development Goal (MDGs), which respectively relate to eradication of poverty and promotion of gender equality and empowerment of women. BISP has set its objectives as Poverty reduction through women empowerment. According to United Nation's document on MDGs the most vital actions for the empowerment of women is to scale up actions and increase financial resources for measures targeted towards women empowerment; and to support women entrepreneurship especially in rural areas through micro finance. I am glad to say that BISP is very much doing the same things for the welfare and betterment of our women. To attain a broad-based consensus among all women members of the Parliament on an agreed agenda for women development, empowerment and emancipation, enabling them to work beyond and above party lines for the uplift of the women of Pakistan. I feel immense pride and satisfaction to share with you that we have not only honored the pledge made by our great leader but have also moved ahead of developing a mere consensus among the women Parliamentarians. Since the time of these pledges, we have done a great deal of work for the development; empowerment and emancipation of our women. And the platform employed for this purpose is none other than the Benazir lncome Support Programme (BISP).

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We are true to our slogan: Ilm, Roshni Sab Ko Kaam Roti.Kapra Aur Makaan Legislating for Empowerment; Harassment at Workplace Bill – Ms. Yasmeen Rehman, MNA / Advisor to the Federal Ministry of Women Development The Honorable Chairman Senate of Pakistan. Parliamentarians from SAARC Region. Members of the National Assembly, Senate, Provincial Assemblies, AJK and Gilgilat Baltistan, ladies and gentlemen, Assalam o Allikum, I feel privileged and take pride to share and to give overview of landmark legislations that have been passed by the National Assembly and Senate during the past two years by the democratic Government. I would also like to share that political will and political environment in Pakistan was never so favorable towards women empowerment· and we see it at present. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto developed the manifesto of the PPP which focuses, on cultural social, legal and economic empowerment of the women of this country. The present Government has a strong commitment to enforce and implement these guidelines Chairman Sahib, I Congratulate Madam Speaker and her team for organizing a very successful historic event which gives a message to the women folk In Pakistan in general and gives confidence and creates reconciliatory environment in the National Assembly amongst female legislators belonging to different political parties. Legal Empowerment of Women in Pakistan Although there is a gradual and increasing acknowledgement of women’s autonomy as a development issue empirical indicators show 'that women continue to have a lower quality of life, are disempowered and face an inequality of opportunities in all areas of development, relative to men. Discriminatory laws and customs play a crucial role in preserving status quo. The State’s commitment to bring a positive change in society could be gauged by its gender-sensitive policy initiative and laws enactment processes. Empowerment of women would require a holistic approach in which all sections of society cooperate and State plays its Constitutional role. The burden must be shared by the political parties, media arid ulemas as each one of this section has failed to give the issue of women's rights the critical importance it deserves. DRAFT SPEECH FOR THE ADVISOR IN CONNECTION WITH THE LEGISLATION MADE BY THE GOVERNMENT FOR LEGAL EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN Ladies and Gentlemen By becoming signatory to various UN Conventions especially the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of discrimination against Women and the Convention on the

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Rights of the Child, our commitments to remove and prevent all discriminatory practices from social fabric have been strengthened. The Government of Pakistan is making efforts to fulfill its national and international commitments to protect women's rights. These include the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; National Plan of Action for women; National policy for development and empowerment of Women; Millennium Development Goals (MDGs); and SAAARC convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and 'Children for Prostitution. Concerted efforts are being made by MoWD with the collaboration of NCSW to review and amend Discriminatory Laws affecting the status and rights of women. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2004 has declared "honour killing" as murder with the punishment of death or life imprisonment. This Law made changes in the criminal law to deal effectively with offenders of honour killing. Code of Criminal Procedure (Amendment) Ordinance, 2006 promulgated in July, 2006 amended section of bail to women in jails on charges other than terrorism and murder. A large number of female prisoners were released from different prisons of Pakistan under this law. Ladies and Gentlemen Protection of Women (Criminal laws Amendment) Act, 2006 enacted in December -2006 provides relief and protection to women against misuse and abuse of law and to prevent their exploitation. The object of this was to bring the laws relating to Zina and Qazf in particular, in conformity with the stated objectives of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Constitutional mandate and to provide relief and protection to women against misuse and abuse of law. This Act provides 30 important amendments in existing Offence of Zina and Qazf (Enforcement of Hudood Ordinance 1979)', the. 'Pakistan Penal Code (ACT XLV of 1860)', the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898 (Act, V of 1898)’, and the 'Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act 1939'. Recently, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2010 and Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010 both has been passed by the Government to address the issue of sexual harassment of women, in the public and private sectors. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2010 amending the Pakistan Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, has increased punishment for the crime to three years in prison and a fine of up to Rs. 500,000. Besides, the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010 provides penalties including demotion compulsory retirement and dismissal from service for the perpetrators. These land mark legislations serve as a deterrent to the issue of harassment at the workplace and encourage young women to joint private and public sector without any fear. I also mention here some of the draft legislations.

The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Bill, 2009 is under the review of mediation committee formed by the Speaker of National Assembly to provide legal mechanism for protection of victims of domestic violence inline with the provisions of the Constitution.

NCSW is working to draft a Bill titled” Women’s Legal Ownership of Assets

and Resources” to address the customs and traditions that restrict women’s equal access to owing and inheriting land and property

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Ownership of Assets and Resources to address the customs and traditions that restrict women's equal access to owing and inheriting land and property.

The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) is also working

on a draft on the law of Acid Throwing e.g. “Acid Crime Prevention, Act” 2002 of the Government of Bangladesh, to curb this heinous crime against women MOWD in collaboration with Ministry of Health is in process of evolving to a system to free of cost treatment to the victims of Acid throwing.

Although much remains to be done I am confident that our women will be free

from discrimination, oppression and biases. Ladies and Gentlemen Article 25 of the Constitution of the Pakistan is the guiding principle and its provisions are embedded in every policy made and every legislation proposed, for women. MOWD, Government and Caucuses are working for formulation of public policies and laws to meet the special needs of women. Madam Speaker, MOWD and I hope that the Caucus will ensure that women’s interest and needs are adequately represented in public policy formulation by various organs and agencies of the Government. Dear Colleagues this event is a brain child of our Speaker and legislators, this is an innovative step towards landing a strong and sustained voice to the vital issues of women in our society Chairman Sahib, Madam Speaker you have pointed out time and time again that 60% of the agenda in the National Assembly is moved by female legislators, this research establishes efforts of female Parliamentarians to highlight the problems faced to find solutions for vulnerable groups of societies Madam Speaker, I urge you to lead the women Parliamentarians across the party lines, across the regional differences and religious sects in making this world a peaceful, happy and secure place, free of terrorism, extremism oppression and depression.

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Presidency Speech Speech by the President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari Madam Speaker, Honorable Members Distinguished Guests! Ladies and Gentlemen! It is a matter of honor and satisfaction for me to address the National Convention of Women Parliamentarians on their role in peace-building, security and reconciliation. Madam Speaker and the Women Caucus deserve to be congratulated for providing women parliamentarians, not only from Pakistan but also from the region, a platform to find ways and means to promote peace, security and reconciliation. It is indeed a great pleasure for us that members of parliaments from Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal took part in the deliberation and shared their experiences with us. I see this convention as an emblem of hope for the women and the people of Pakistan. It has done what no one else has done in the past. On the one hand it recognizes their struggle for women emancipation and on the other it places new and grave responsibilities on them. This convention is a step for mobilizing the collective power of women to help make Pakistan, the region and the world more tolerant, harmonious and secure. Peace, security and reconciliation will ensure Pakistan a bright future, and we are working towards that end with unwavering commitment. Ladies and Gentlemen, Pakistan has suffered in the quest for peace and reconciliation in the last ten years, as it has taken on the extremist forces, which have become the greatest threat to our national security. Pakistan has lost a great leader like Benazir Bhutto, and Pakistan has lost its valiant sons and daughters in the fight against terror. These sacrifices have been given by the leaders, the people and the armed forces, because we as people believe in peaceful, secure, and prosperous Pakistan. The participation of women in Pakistan’s national life, despite all hurdles, has a bright history. From Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah to Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, it has been a successful struggle of securing legal, social and political rights for women of Pakistan. Today women are part of the bigger challenge—the challenge to save the soul of Pakistan from the forces of darkness. Democracy is the only future for Pakistan, and our every effort is to promote democratic culture. The current parliament is unique, as it has taken bold initiatives to do away with the powers of status quo. It gave not only Pakistan but also the Muslim world their first women Speaker. Madam Mirza’s election was the fulfillment of our leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s commitment to the cause of women empowerment. The Madam Speaker, continuing the policy of reconciliation, formed the first Women Caucus in Pakistan’s parliamentary history. It sent out a clear and loud message that we believe in empowerment of women and that they are part of decision-making.

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The Women Parliamentary Caucus has 90 legislators, who are taking keen interest in the proceedings of the Caucus, enabling this young forum to mature in a short span of time. I will like to see the Provincial Assemblies also form chapters of the women caucus in their respective Houses, and join hands with the Women Caucus in the National parliament, to become a powerful and collective voice for the rights of women, and for the overall progress of Pakistan. Today the opportunity and space for the women parliamentarians of Pakistan is unprecedented. With their work and commitment, they can bring in better changes in the lives of Pakistani women. For this, women parliamentarians have to work across the party lines, because their aim is same – empowerment of women to make their full contributions to society. This empowerment is not at the expense of the other gender or aspects of Pakistani society; in fact, on the contrary, it will supplement our efforts for becoming a peaceful nation. Women parliamentarians are taking lead in legislation in the current parliament, which is welcome sign of their healthy and serious activism. Over the last two years, the contribution of women parliamentarians in the parliament has been significant and they are visible because of their work, for the supremacy of parliament and strengthening democracy. I am happy that the women parliamentarians got together to discuss to become part of the nation’s efforts in defeating the forces of terrorism. I am confident that the deliberations at this convention have given a clear direction to women parliamentarians not only to play their full and active role in promoting peace and reconciliation in Pakistan, but also work for women’s welfare with new vigor. This convention should not be considered a one-off event, but one that provides the basis for a comprehensive plan for women contribution to political and social aspects of national life, enabling us as a nation to get rid of problems that are afflicting us for the last 60 years. Let me also assure that women parliamentarians will have the support of the current government in their every endeavor for the emancipation of women, for peace, security and reconciliation. Thank you Pakistan Paindabad

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Closing Session

Way Forward --- Keynote by Shahnaz Wazir Ali (Based upon the recommendations of the six sessions)

Dr. Attiya Inayatullah Chairperson Drafting Committee presenting Declaration

Closing Speech by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC Dr. Fehmida Mirza

Speech by Closure of Conference & Vote of Thanks by Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah

Way Forward --- Keynote by Shahnaz Wazir Ali Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Sector (Based upon the recommendations of the six sessions) Honorable Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza, Federal Ministers, Respected Speakers and members of the Provincial Assemblies, Representatives of the SAARC countries, distinguished delegates from AJK, women activists and diplomats "Assalam-ul-Iaikum" I am honored and humbled to stand before you at the concluding session of the first ever convention of women Parliamentarians from across Pakistan who have come together with a common aspiration to claim our rightful place in the processes for ensuring peace, security and reconciliation. This national convention is taking place at a critical juncture in Pakistan's history.

Every day we see the devastating impact of militancy and extremism which has serious implications for security and stability. In particular violence perpetrated through conflict or other means places the most vulnerable sections of our society namely women and children, at risk.

The crisis emanating from tensions, conflicts and social injustice is compounded by the severe economic downturn leading to displacement, food and human insecurity causing immense suffering and discrimination borne principally by women. Women have little to do with creating the conflict but it is women who are most badly affected as a result of several levels of conflict. They are victims of domestic violence, traditional practices, ethnic violence, systematic militancy, terrorism, discrimination and prejudice. It is precisely because they pay a heavy price of war and conflict that women seek peace, harmony, security and reconciliation. Therefore, it is most appropriate, timely and relevant that the two day deliberations of this convention have focused on the role of women legislators as peace builders, mediators and strong advocates of security and reconciliation. According to the former General Secretary of the UN Kofi Annan, "Women, who know the price of conflict so well, are also better equipped than men to prevent or resolve it. For generations, women have served as peace educators, both in their families and in their societies. They have proved instrumental in building bridges rather than walls." Your participation in the working sessions has reaffirmed that women parliamentarians have the courage to define a vision of peace and that their perspectives are crucial to the vibrant empowerment for women participation at all decision making levels.

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Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto articulated her views on the potential of women in these words; she said "in my formative years, I came to understand that the only limits on options for women in society are limits that we ourselves accept. I came to understand that by rejecting the constraints of the past on what women can do and become, we can build a newer world not only for ourselves and our daughters but for our husbands and sons. Just as democracy promotes moderation, gender equality promotes peace." Honorable speakers and distinguish guest, the personal commitments you have been brought to this convention are so evident in the intense and substantive discussions that have taken place in the six working groups. It is now my privilege to present to you the recommendations from the six working groups. The first theme focused on: 1- Women and Conflict Resolution

Recommendations:

1. Include women parliamentarians oversight role in peace building process to ensure justice and human rights in reconciliation and post conflict reconstructing.

2. Promote women’s role in conflict prevention as well as in conflict resolution.

3. Promote a shift away from "state security" to "people security" and formulate legislation and policies against inequalities and injustice which are root causes of conflict

4. Enact legislation to protect women against violence, kidnapping, trafficking, harassment and other vulnerabilities that are exacerbated in conflict situations

5. Parliamentarians to build networks with peace organizations and activists at the national, regional and international level for attainment of enduring peace

6. Implementation of 10% quota especially in law enforcement agencies including police, security agencies and judiciary

: 2. Women and Security

Recommendations:

1. Accelerated advocacy efforts for complete enforcement of Article 25 of the Constitution of Pakistan which states that "there shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex and ensures non discrimination against citizens."

2. Ensure implementation of the UN convention on the Rights of the Child specifically the provisions that protect girls below the age of 18.

3. Harmonization of laws throughout Pakistan to ensure equal access for all citizens especially women in FATA, PATA, G-B and AJK; putting an end to parallel systems such as jirgas and punchayats.

4. Criminalization of violence against women committed by family members by legislating laws against domestic violence and developing institutional mechanisms to implement the laws and provision of shelters at the district levels to ensure women's dignity and rights.

5. Revival and strengthening of women police stations with sufficient budgets, resources and strong mandates to empower women police officials to register

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FIRs and take other measures to protect women 6. Collective efforts by women parliamentarians across party lines to identify

solutions for key security issues of women and actively engage male Parliamentarians, to advance women's human rights agenda

7. Develop programmes at district and union council levels to ensure women's economic security through training in income generation skills particularly livelihood opportunities as a critical component of peace building efforts

8. Facilitate organizing of women along skill lines such as women worker’s associations and empower them with leadership skills (negotiation, mediation, consensus building, conflict resolution etc)

3. Effects of Conflict on Women- Plight of Internally Displaced Women

Recommendations:

1. Enacting pro women legislation for addressing women IDP needs and issues through gender sensitive mechanisms. To ensure women parliamentarians inclusion in every decision making committee, forum and departments related to IDP at all stages and levels during post conflict and conflict situations for effective supervision of humanitarian and relief assistance.

2. A core committee to be established at national level and standing committees in the provincial assemblies to address IDP women needs

3. Rehabilitation should include provision of formal education and vocational skills training for young girls

4. Engaging Media For Peace

Recommendations: 1. Organizing coordinated skill building sensitized programmes for women

parliamentarians and media to facilitate and advocate for the rightful role and interests of women in all peace related processes. Facilitate removal of gender bias while dealing with issues of peace, security and reconciliation.

2. launching media skill building programmes to cover these interests a) respecting diversity b) preventing circulation and broadcasting propaganda c) securing effective relations with parliamentarian

3. Design and launch media campaigns encouraging participation in social reconstruction and democratization

4. Communication and media management training to be a part of the orientation and induction package for all parliamentarians especially women

5. Development of a strategic media framework focusing on citizen participation based on peace building efforts as well as development of information landscape of freedom, transparency and accountability.

5. Building Networks for Peace

Recommendations: 1. Working for peace demands plurist democracy which is the only pathway to

peace 2. Parliamentary caucus should form a Committee for Peace 3. Make similar committees in each provincial assembly which should connect

at all levels of representative forums (prov, district, sub-districts) 4. Identify local peace networks, women for peace and security network created

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5. Build awareness about laws related to conflicts (UN Resolution 1325) 6. Take the initiative to create a South Asian Parliamentarians forum by making

a working group with the regional parliamentarians present in this convention

6- Role of Women Parliamentary Caucuses in Legislation and Oversight of Peace and Security Issues

Recommendations:

1. Make security and defense committees more gender balanced 2. Enact legislation to increase participation of female parliamentarians on

security related committees. 3. Appoint an Ombudsperson with special powers to oversee the integration of

gender issues within defense and other security sector institutions 4. Establish a common legislative agenda codes of conduct for security sector

personnel concerning prevention and response to human rights violations, including disciplinary procedures

5. Conduct inquiries/studies into the nature and extent of sexual harassment and other forms of Gender Based Violence with security sector institutions.

6. Caucuses at Provincial levels should be constituted 7. Collective and unanimous method should be adopted for choosing or electing

Caucus office bearers in all Provinces. 8. review of existing legislations and policies and oversight of their

implementation at all levels 9. gender sensitization of male stakeholders 10. gender mainstreaming of annual budgets and all policy documents

Closing Emerging from the intense and substantive discussions of the six working groups is the map for the way forward for women parliamentarians and elected representatives. Recommendations include affirmative action leading to legislation and policy and include a call for a mainstream role of women legislators in the processes of building peace, ensuring security and promoting reconciliation. For each one of us individually and for all of us collectively these recommendations constitute a priority national agenda beyond party lines to which we shall hold ourselves accountable. This convention establishes the milestones for us in our work as legislators and peoples representatives. It has highlighted the importance of women parliamentarians and their roles in voicing priority issues affecting women. It sets a precedent for the future and creates a solid framework and platform at which issues of relevance to women can be discussed. Today we have taken a giant leap forward, our direction is clear and our journey is full of hope with a firm conviction in our collective strength. We have the opportunity that Democracy provides. When history is written, this time, this day will bear witness to the strength and commitment of women parliamentarians to take up the daunting challenges and chart the path ways to peace and security through reconciliation. It was Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s total faith in the ability of the people of Pakistan to heal the wounds of long periods of tyranny and injustice through reconciliation. Dr Fehmida Mirza as the pre eminent woman speaker you have through your bold initiative of this convention translated Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhuttos vision into a reality.

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It is only in times of democracy that Parliamentarians can engage freely and to their full attention.

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Dr. Attiya Inayatullah Chairperson Drafting Committee Presenting Declaration NATIONAL CONVENTION OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS DECLARATION We, women parliamentarians and elected representatives of Balochistan, Khyber pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir who are participating in the National Convention on “ The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation” held in Islamabad from 24-26 May, 2010 hereby adopt the following Declaration on this day of the 26th May, 2010. Recalling: that for women peace has always meant more than absence of conflict and war, and that its attainment is inextricably linked with democracy, inclusive development and human security. Further Recalling: Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s message of reconciliation for peace and security which recognizes that the most essential and most needed attribute of our time is the need to overcome barriers in the spirit of reconciliation. Expressing: deep concern on the spread of militancy and extremism in Pakistan and recognizing that violence and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations has put peace, development and stability in the region at stake. Recognizing: that the rise of militancy in South Asia is a source of concern and women leaders of the region need to play a proactive role in leading peace building and creating socially cohesive societies. Noting: that the February 18, 2008 election not only saw the emergence of over 22 percent women in Parliament but also the advent of the first woman Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan. Commends: the visionary initiative of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly in the formation of the Women’s Parliamentary caucus which provides a forum for building consensus beyond political lines and is a voice for women‘s empowerment. Welcomes: the unanimous Resolution of the National Assembly commending the establishment and contribution of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus. Appreciates: that the Women’s Parliamentary caucus was established as a tribute to the nations pioneer women leader: Ms. Fatima Jinnah, Begum Liaqat Ali Khan, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and all other women rights activists. Commends: the women’s Parliamentary Caucus on selecting for its first National Convention of Parliamentarians the theme of “Peace, Security and Reconciliation “with the objective of affirming that women are an integral part of all processes concerning peace, security and reconciliation. Affirms: The women’s rights agenda and provision for affirmative action as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan and contained in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Convention of Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Elimination of Violence against Women (EVAW) and Convention on Rights of the Child to which Pakistan is a signatory.

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Welcomes: and thanks Parliamentarians from SAARC countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Srilanka for joining us on this historic occasion. We affirm:

(i) That the participation of women I political and social movements is rooted in our history. We salute the courage, sacrifice and commitment of our women leaders who are a source of encouragement and will continue to guide and inspire us to do better in our quest for peace.

(ii) We will strengthen the role of Women Parliamentarians as catalysts of change in the ongoing geo-political situation by raising a strong and united voice for peace & stability in the country and region.

(iii) That we stand united with our security forces in combating extremism and terrorism which can be fought and won only with the full support of the people.

(iv) At the because a defining characteristic of conflict is use of women as a “Weapon of War” there is a collective consciousness of the invisibility of women in the security nexus.

(v) That women can no longer just be victims of conflict, women are universally accepted as peace makers because of their capacity to negotiate, strive for justice, confront issues collectively and work as peace activists to heal communities.

(vi) The centrality of women soul in articulating the new security paradigm. Women, therefore, must be visible in all formal and informal peace processes.

(vii) That a pluralistic democracy requires a critical mass of women in politics. (viii) To strengthen the increasingly role of women in the media with a view to

promoting generous sensitivity and advocacy of the women’s perspective in social and human security issues.

We, Women Parliamentarians and Elected Representatives Commit: (i) on the occasion of the 15th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and

Platform for Action we will strive to emerge as a driving force which promotes zero tolerance legislation and policies against all forms of violence against all forms of violence against women ranging from conflict and war to inequitable systems and domestic violence.

(ii) To promote the spirit of reconciliation and dialogue at multiple levels by using it as a tool for peace and security to bridge the gap between conflicting ideologies and political philosophies of the 21st century.

(iii) That since women and children are worst effected by natural disasters, conflict, extremism, militancy and terrorism, women have a distinct role to play in setting the peace agenda peace keeping, peace building and reconstruction.

(iv) To work nationally, regionally and internationally with women’s groups, civil society and peace building structures in strengthening rehabilitation and reconstruction activities, protecting refugees and internally displaced persons.

(v) In recognition of the women related democracy deficit take the lead in creating a viable network from local government through provincial assemblies to the elected women representatives at the national level.

(vi) To being advocated for the right of every individual to human security, particularly women and girls. Further, work to dismantle structural

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inequities which engender discrimination, social exclusion and vulnerability.

(vii) To sustain and expand the gains made in women’s empowerment by increasing participation at policy and decision-making levels in politics and public life, expand educational opportunities, provide productive employment, and re-define local and national agendas accordingly.

(viii) To work with the media in dismantling stereotyping of women, removing gender biases and in promoting women as agents of change, messengers of peace, and harbingers of sustainable development.

We, the participants of the National convention of Women Parliamentarians, recalling that peace is born from the soul of each of us, seek to evolve sustainable mechanism by engaging in networks, partnerships and create synergies with the media, civil society and government as also through regional and international forums in the furtherance of this Declaration,.

Closing Speech by the Speaker National Assembly & Patron WPC Dr. Fehmida Mirza Hon’ble Members of the Parliament, Hon’ble Members of the provincial assemblies of Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, Members of the Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assemblies Hon’ble Member Parliaments from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Sri Lanka! Distinguished Guests! Ladies and Gentlemen! As the two day Convention of the Women Parliamentarians draws towards its closing session, my confidence in the potential of our women legislators across the board has increased even more. With the enthusiasm of delegates witnessed during the working sessions, I can certify that the commitment of women parliamentarians reflected in the Joint Declaration of this Convention will be honored as a commitment to the way forward. I was further delighted to notice that the Convention not only succeeded in bringing together the honorable women MPAs under one roof but has also given them an opportunity to interface, interact and bond together. Meeting face to face proved fruitful. I, therefore, urge upon all my honorable women colleagues in the legislative bodies in Pakistan to join hands in providing protective and gender responsive legislation and policies. Their presence in the Parliaments should be felt through their performance in the legislative business. And, it is my pleasure to note that our women parliamentarians are already on the right track as they are increasingly participating in the legislative business, and at times, standing-out in their performance. It is, at this point, that the need to link up through a vibrant forum like the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus arises at the provincial levels as well. Such forums in your

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respective assembles will provide you a strong platform to share your experiences, concerns and needs in emerging as a cohesive force, ensuring women empowerment in Pakistan. This will further assert your role in critical issues of national and international significance. On behalf of women’s parliamentary Caucus, I assure you of our complete and continued support and patronage. The working Council and the General Assembly of the WPC can provide the needed strength and expertise in evolving your respective structure. Furthermore, we also look forward for a close network among such caucuses. The obvious next step is our bond at the SAARC level as women of South Asia have similar problems and issues. We must, therefore, have a common ground as well. This increased interaction and expanded networking in building consensus on the regional level can play the pivotal role for lasting peace in the Region. And as you can see, the theme selected for the first National Convention of Women Parliamentarians was about one of the most topical issues which we all confront. Such scenario, therefore, calls for a strong collective voice in putting the basic and critical issues of women, peace and security on table. It also expects us to commit ourselves for resolving them through the politics of reconciliation – a strategy and guiding lines of Shaheed Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto. The intrinsic potential of women is vast; it must be tapped and harnessed to effectively meet the challenges of injustice, intolerance and violence. During these two days, we have had the opportunity of gaining insight into the various facets of the connection between women, peace and security and their distinct role in bringing lasting peace around them. This role is multifaceted and should have a strong presence of women at all levels in peace building, peace negotiations and reconstruction processes. The outcome of the deliberations held during the working sessions have just been summarized eloquently by Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali. The recommendations as highlighted by her are reflective of your sensitivity and realization of the core issues. I was pleased to witness this during the round of visits I made of the working sessions. I may, however, caution you not to let this passion die down as this Convention has raised the expectations of the Pakistani women. The responsibility on our shoulders has, hence, increased that we need to live upto. The participation and contributions of the Civil Society and Media was also an added source of strength for us during the Convention. Their valuable suggestions and informed analysis of the issues were enlightening for all of us. At the same time, they also got a chance to understand the perspectives of the parliamentarians. In short, this Convention has shown all of us a way forward. We have learnt to understand and accommodate each others’ perspective beyond Party Lines. And this is the soul beauty of Women’s Parliamentary Caucus. As I thank you all for your presence and valuable contributions, I would especially like to pay special thanks to our friends from the SAARC region, the Chairs and panelists of experts. I would further like to thank all Members of the Caucus and other Parliamentarians, especially the Members of the Working Council, who diligently strived for the smooth holding of this Convention.

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My appreciation is also due to all Officers and Staff of the National Assembly and Senate, who worked day and night in organizing this Convention. Ladies and Gentlemen! Inspiration from Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto has taught us, the women have a strong role to play. As I declare this Convention closed, I recall her address to the US Congress where she claimed on behalf of all other women of the world: Yes ! We can With all my blessings, I thank you all very much. Pakistan Paindabad

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Speech by Closure of Conference & Vote of Thanks by Secretary WPC Nafisa Shah

- I would like to thank the Patron of WPC Dr. Fehmida Mirza, and all the members of the working council of WPC who supervised and stood by the entire staff all along.

- Coordinator WPC Mr. Shamoon Hashmi, NCWP Chief Coordinator Ms. Huma Chughtai and the entire staff of Women’s Parliamentary Caucus Specially Syed Wasim Kazi, Fatima Hashmi, Aamina Javed, Farheen Khalid, Syed Ghulam Abbas, Syed Shahab Zaidi, Qari Shehzad and Rizwan Mawbool whose timeless hard work made this convention possible.

- I would also like to thank our donors namely; - Ms. Carmen Lane and Ms. Nadia Batool from PLSP (Pakistan Legislative

Strengthening Project) of USAID. - Mr. Farhaan Sabeeh (Programme Director) & Ms. Marvi Sarmad from

UNDP/SDPD - Ms. Alice Shackelford Country Programme Director UNIFEM, Mr. Saghir

Bukhari and also through the courtesy of UNIFEM Mr. Imran Rizvi of KZR and his team for facilitating at the Convention.

- Mr. Gregor Euste and Ms. Saima Jasam from Henrich Boel Foundation. - Mr. Karamat Niazi, Secretary of National Assembly - Syed Munawar Abbas, Additional Secretary National Assembly - Mr. Feroz Khan Director General IR - Mr. Anjum Mughal Director General PR - Mr. Shahid Jillani, Joint Secretary Admin - Mr. Amir Khan, Deputy Secretary, respective officers & sections of National

Assembly. - Mr. Tariq Bhatti Director Automation for establishing and supervising an

efficient Conference Secretariat. - Mr. Taj Bangash, Mr. Amanullah and their entire team of Special Branch

(Security). - Cameraman Mr. Zafar Sultan for the outstanding coverage of the Convention. - Event Manager’s Mr. Ali Imran from Ace Production and Ms. Rubina Rauf

from Lok Virsa. - Mr. Attique Ullah Khan Khattak from Khiva Restaurant for catering at the

Convention Centre. - We would also like to thank the entire team of Usher’s provided by SDPD. - And finally I would like to thank CDA, Islamabad Police and the Interior

Ministry for making this Convention a great success.

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ANNEXURE - 3: Working Session Registration LIST OF PARTICIPANTS WHO ATTENDED WORKING SESSION - 1

1. Dr. Zamurad Yasmin Rana, MPA, Punjab. 2. Mrs. Naseem Nasir Khan, MPA, PML N. 3. Mrs.Nisar Tanveer, MNA, Punjab. 4. Mrs.Mehrun-Nisa, Deputy Speaker, AJK. 5. Saadia Danish, MLA, Advisor to CM, GB. 6. Shereen Fatima, MLA, GB. 7. Mehnaz Wali,MLA, GB 8. Zarqa Tanveer,MPA,Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa. 9. Shahnaz Saifuddin, MPA,MQM 10. Dr.Nahid Shahid Ali, MNA MOM 11. Imrana Saeed Tamil, MNA, MQM. 12. Zubaida Ihsan, MPA, ANP. 13. Yasmin Zia, MPA, ANP 14. Mussarat Shafi, MPA, ANP 15. Shagufta Malik, MPA, ANP. 16. Rashida Panhwar, MPA, PPP 17. Rukhsana Shah,MPA, PPP Sindh 18. Yameen Nazar, MPA,GB 19. Shama Arif Mithani, MPA, Sindh 20. Farheen Mughal, MPA, Sindh 21. Fauzia Ijaz Khan, MNA , Sindh 22. Nargis Rana, MPA, Lahore. 23. Nargis ND Shah, MPA, Minister Social Welfare, Sindh. 24. Bushra Gohar, MNA, ANP, khyber Pukhtoonkhwa. 25. Gazala Gola, Minister, W.D.D.PPP, Balochistan. 26. Rosy Senanayake, MP, Sri Lanka 27. Anis Haroon,Chairperson NCSW. 28. Farzana Bari, Director-Gender, Studies,Q.A.University. 29. Zubia Rubab Malik, MPA, Punjab. 30. Dr.Amna Buttar,MPA,Punjab. 31. Faiza Ahmad Malik, Parliamentary Secretary, Punjab. 32. Shabana Riaz, MPA, Punjab. 33. Najmi Salim,MPA,Punjab 34. Saghia Salim, MPA, Punjab. 35. Shamera Alwain, MPA, Punjab. 36. Ayesha Khoso,MPA Sindh 37. Shamim Ali Wali, MLA.

End

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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS WHO ATTENDED WORKING SESSION - 2

1. Showkat ARA Begum, Bangladesh 2. Tauqeer Fatima Bhutto, Minister for Women Development, Sindh. 3. Mrs.Shirala Malik, Senator. 4. Saira Afzal Tarar,MNA,Punjab 5. Dr.Faiza asheed, MPA, khyber Pukhtoonkhwa 6. Mrs. Nuzhat-Pathan advocate, MPA, Sindh 7. Mrs.Farukh Khan, President P.M.L Women’s Wing 8. Nazma Jawad Hashmi,MPA Punjab 9. Zeb Jaffar, MPA, Political Assistant to C.M Punjab. 10. Nargis Zafar, MPA, Punjab 11. Asifa Farooqi, MPA,Punjab 12. Azma Bukhari, MPA,Punjab 13. Mrs. Farzana Mushtaq Ghani, MNA 14. Embesat Hamid,MPA,Punjab 15. Nasim Lodhi,MPA,Punjab 16. Nusrat Bano,Seha Abbasi, MPA, PML, Functional 17. Roiaz Bozdar, MPA, P.P.P, Sindh. 18. Mrs. Joyce Rufin Julius, M.P.A, Punjab 19. Mrs.Deeba Mirza Advocate, MPA Punjab 20. Mrs. Kishwar Qayyum, MPA Punjab 21. Dr. Asma Memdot, MPA PML(F) 22. Najma Saeed Chawla, MPA (Sindh) PPP 23. Sabeen Rizvi, MNA (NA282) 24. Amna Ulfat, MPA (356) 25. Sajida Mir, MPA (W336) Punjab 26. Samina Naveed, MPA W346 Punjab 27. Nargis Samin, MPA, khyber Pukhtoonkhwa 28. Rahat Ajmal, MPA(N) W326 29. Shameela Aslam, MPA (Punjab) 30. Mahmuda Cheema, MPA Punjab 31. Dr. Ghazala Raza Raees, MPA Punjab 32. Afshan Farooq, MPA Punjab 33. Anjum Safdar, MPA Punjab 34. Hina Gilani, Expert Punjab 35. Ranee Narah, MP India 36. Syeda Shehla Raza, Deputy. Speaker, Sindh

End

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1. Mrs. Nasreen Rehman Khethran, MPA, Balochistan 2. Shahida Rauf, Advisor to CM (Health) 3. Naeema Shaheen Nisar, MPA, KPK 4. Sajida Tubassam, Advisor, MPA 5. Sanjida Yousaf, MPA KPK 6. Tabassam Younus Katozai, MPA, KPK 7. Yasmin Pirmad Khan, MPA KPK 8. Munawar Sultan, MPA KPK 9. Dr. Zil-e-Homa, MNA Balochistan 10. Rahela Baloch, MNA Punjab 11. Mrs. Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, MNA Punjab 12. Shrien Ahmed Khan, MNA, PML(N) 13. Ayesha Zaheer, Vice Chairperson, SAAR Women Entrepreneur Council 14. Mrs. Belum Hasnain, MNA, PPP 15. Mrs. Shahshad Satti, MNA, PPP 16. Khawar Mumtaz, Shuhat Gah 17. Noor Sahar, MPA, KPK 18. Khalida Salimi, NGO Sach 19. Asma Arbab Alamgir, MNA, KPK 20. Fauzia Koofi, MPA Afghanistan 21. Sitara Ayaz, Minister KPK 22. Rahila Hameed Durrani, Minister for Prosecution 23. Shazia Tehmas Khan, MPA, KPK 24. Bushra Asad, Reporter PTV 25. Noreen Arif, Minister Education, AJK

End

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1. ASIFA FAROOQI MPA W-329 Punjab 2. SAFINA SYMA KHAR MPA Punjab 3. SHAZIA ASHFAQ MPA PP 95 Punjab 4. NARGIS SAMIN MPA PKP 5. MRS. NISAR TANVER MNA (N) Punjab 6. MRS. KISHWAR QAYYUM MPA PPPP Punjab 7. SYEDA BATOOL MPA MMA KP 8. SHAHEEN ISHFAQ MNA PML-N Punjab 9. SAJIDA MIR MPA (PPPP) Punjab 10. NARGIS FAIZ MALIK MPA (PPPP) Punjab 11. SAKINA SHAHEEN KHAN MPA (PML (N) Punjab 12. SHAMEELA ASLAM MPA PML (N) Punjab 13. RAHAT AJMAL MPA N 14. MRS. JOYEE RUFIN MPA Punjab 15. ISHRAT ASHRAF MNA 16. SAGHINA ISLAM MPA 17. SHAKEELA KHANAM RASHID MNA 18. BELUM HASNAIN MNA 19. ROSY SENANAYALA MP SRI LANKA 20. RANEE NARAH MP India 21. ZEB JAFFAR MPA Advisor to CM Punjab 22. ZOFEEN T. EBRAHIM Sindh Journalist 23. KHUSH BAKHT SHUJAT MNA 24. FOZIA BEHRAM MPA Punjab PPPP 25. SHAMSHAD SATTAR MNA Sindh 26. KIRAN DAR MPA Punjab 27. NAFISA AMIN MPA Punjab 28. SABEEN RIZVI MNA 29. FARIHA NAYAB MPA Punjab 30. MUSSARAT SHAFI MPA Khyber Pakhtoonkhawa 31. YASIM ZIA MPA (ANP) 32. MUNAWAR SULTANA MPA Khyber Pakhtoonkhawa 33. NARGIS AWAN MPA Punjab 34. NASEEM NASIR KHAN PMA 35. MEHMOODA CHEEMA PMA 36. SHAGUFTA MALIK PMA Khyber Pakhtoonkhawa 37. SYEDA BATOOL PMA Khyber Pakhtoonkhawa 38. ASIFA FAROOQI MPA Punjab 39. DEEBA MIRZA Advocate MPA Punjab 40. FAIZA AHMED MALIK Parliamentary Secretary Punjab 41. ZARQA TANVEER MPA Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa 42. KISHWAR QAYYUM MPA Punjab 43. NAJMI SALIM MPA Punjab 44. SAJIDA MIR MPA Punjab 45. SURIYA AMIRUDDIN Senator PPP Balochistan 46. NARGIS FAIZ MALIK MPA Punjab 47. SHAZIA MARRI Minister for Tourism

End

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1. MISS TASNEEM SIDDIQUI MNA 2. MRS. FARZANA MUSHTAQ GHANI MNA 3. NAEEMA SHAHEEN NISAR MPA 4. SAJIDA TABASSUM (ADV) MPA 5. SANJIDA YOUSAF MPA 6. NAJMA SAEED CHAWLA MPA SINDH PPP 7. NUZHAT SADIQ MNA 8. AMINA ANSARI MNA 9. MEHNAZ WALI MLA GILGIT 10. 1SHEREEN FATIMA MLA GILGIT 11. NASREEN REHMAN KHETHRAN PML-Q, MPA, BALOCHISTAN 12. SHAHIDA RAUF ADVISOR TO CM (HEALTH)

BALOCHISTAN 13. RAHILA HAMEED DURRANI MINISTER FOR PROSECUTION 14. SIMI KAMAL WOMEN

ACTIVIST+RESEARCHER 15. FARZANA A SALEEM WOMEN ACTIVIST COORDINATOR WOMEN & WATER NETWORK, SOUTH ASIA 16. YASMEEN NAZAR MLA GILGIT - BALTISTAN 17. KHAWAR MUMTAZ CEO SHIRKAT GAH NCSW

MEMBER 18. SADIA DANISH MLA G.B ADVISOR GB 19. DR.RUKUIYA HASHMI MPA MINISTER INTER PROVINCIAL COORDINATION 20. FOUZIA SAEED MEMBER NCSW 21. SHIRIN ARSHAD MNA, PML (N) 22. TAHSIN AGZAH MNA 23. KHALIDA HUMA MNA 24. NIGHAT PARVEEN MNA 25. SHAHEEN ISHFAQ MNA

End

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1. DR. NAHID SHAHID ALI MNA Sindh 2. IMRANA SAEED JAMIL MNA MQM 3. FOUZIA EJAZ KHAN MNA MQM 4. MRS. SHIRALAMALLICK SENATOR MQM 5. DR. ZAMURAD YASMIN RANA MPA Punjab 6. NAZMA JAWAD HASHMI MPA Punjab 7. NARGIS ZAFAR PMA Punjab 8. RAI NAZ BUZDAR MPA Sindh 9. SHAMA MITHANI MPA Sindh 10. NUZHAT PATHAN PMA Sindh 11. NAHEED BEGUM MPA Sindh 12. NARGIS ND KHAN Minister Social Welfare Sindh 13. RUKHSANA SHAH MPA Sindh 14. SHAMIM ARA PANHWAR MPA Sindh 15. FARZANA HANIF BABAR MPA Sindh 16. RASHIDA PANHWAR MPA Sindh 17. CARMER LANE PLSP USAID Observer 18. SHAMIM ALI M….. MLA 19. NOREEN ARIF Minister Education (AJK) 20. SYEDA SHEHLA RAZA Deputy Speaker Sindh Assembly 21. SAFINA SYMA KHAR MPA Punjab 22. DR. FOUZIA WAZIR MARRI MPA Balochistan 23. UZMA PIR ALI ZAI ANP Balochistan 24. NAHEED TARIQ MLA Minister P.W. 25. MAIZA HAMEED MPA Punjab 26. HUMAIRA ALWANI MPA SINDH 27. DR FAIZA RASHEED MPA Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa 28. AZMA BOKHARI MPA PPP 29. ISHRAT ASHRAF MNA 30. MEHRUN NISSA Deputy Speaker (AJK) 31. SUGHRA IMAM SENATOR 32. JAMIL GILANI MNA 33. FARHEEN MUGHAL MPA Sindh

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ANNEXURE - 4: Convention Presentations DAY 1

- WORKING SESSION 1 Women and Conflict Resolution

Hon. Rosy Senanayake, MP from Sri Lanka Anees Haroon (Chairperson NCSW) Dr. Farzana Bari (Expert)

- WORKING SESSION 2

Women and Security (Police reforms, domestic violence bill, women at workplace harassment bill, and other women related domestic issues to be discussed under this head)

Shawkat Ara Begum, MP Bangladesh Senator Shirala Malik (MQM) Ranee S Saral, MP (India)

- WORKING SESSION 3

Effects of Conflict on Women - Plight of Internally Displaced Women

Fauzia Koofi, MP from Afghanistan Rahila Durani, MPA Balochistan Robina Saigal, (Expert) Begum Noreen Arif, Minister, Azad Kashmir

DAY 2

- WORKING SESSION 4 Engaging Media for Peace

Khushbakht Shujaat (MNA) Shazia Mari Provincial Minister for Information, Sindh Zofeen Ibrahim (Expert) Ranee Naral

- WORKING SESSION 5

Building Networks for Peace Dr. Ruquiya Hashmi, MPA, Balochistan

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WORKING SESSION 1 Women and Conflict Resolution

- Hon. Rosy Senanayake, MP from Sri Lanka - Anis Haroon (Chairperson NCSW) - Dr. Farzana Bari (Expert)

Paper Presented by Rosy Senanayake, Member of Parliament - Sri Lanka Implementation of Security Council Resolution 1325 in post-conflict Sri Lanka Laws, Policies and Gaps 1. Introduction Charlotte Bunch in her thought-provoking paper entitled: 'Peace, Human Rights and Women's Peace Activism' states: ' ..... Ending the violence of militarism, war al1d racism is tied to ending all forms of violence that permeate our cultures, including violence in the home. This is not a question of which comes first· it is not as if one form of violence either causes or leads to the other automatically; rather they are mutually reinforcing and must be challenged simultaneously. Thus, feminist conceptualizations of peace recognizes violence against women, not as a minor by-product of war, but as a central feature of militarism and armed conflict that must be addressed to achieve real and positive peace '. Sri Lanka this month commemorates the first anniversary of ending a bloody 30year civil war - a war that ravaged a once prosperous and progressive country. There are none in my country that were not affected in one way or the other -and in the center of such monumental damage is the woman. They are disproportionately devastated by the war - women shoulder the many burdens that come with conflict: sexual and physical violence, forced prostitution, displacement and with often the hardships that come with becoming the sole family breadwinner. The maternal instinct of the woman causes her further anxiety with regard to the care of her children, especially the girl-child. The frustrations of conflict also makes her emotionally weak and have doubt of her role when surrounded by sexual violence, poverty, minimal health facilities, poor sanitation and the lack of nutritional requirements. There are other issues as well, such as stress-related domestic violence and the lack of personal privacy in camps. Conflict also adds to the percentage of widows which can already be high due to desertion, separation and divorce. As the ratio of female-headed households rise, other social debacles such as early arranged marriages for females to avoid unwanted pregnancies and for physical protection. However, women play an active role as combatants, peace builders, politicians and activists too and it is important to recognize this reality and give women due recognition. Security Council Resolution 1325 (SCR 1325) mandates to the UN Secretary General and others to ensure the equal and full participation of women in all peace and security initiatives, and the integration of gender in work on peace and security. Although CEDAW and the Beijing Platform for Action have addressed

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women, peace and security issues The SCR 1325 has the most specific mandate to deal with these issues.

To increase representation of women at all decision making levels of institutions and mechanisms for the prevention, management and resolution of conflict

To provide female candidates as special representatives and envoys to the UN Secretary General

To incorporate gender issues and HIV/AIDS awareness training into national training programmes and civilian personnel

To increase voluntary financial, technical and logistical support for gender sensitive training

The Resolution also calls upon all actors involved in negotiating and implementing peace agreements to adopt a gender perspective by:

Looking at the special needs of women By supporting local women’s peace initiatives By involving women an all implementing mechanisms of the peace

agreements By ensuring protection of the human rights of women and girls in the

constitution, electoral system, police and judiciary The Resolution is very strong in its call to all parties to armed conflict that the following is respected:

Respect international law that protects the rights of women and girls Protect women from gender based violence Respect the civilian and humanitarian character of refugee camps Take into account the needs of women and girls in refugee camps, including

in its design The CEDAW Committee in its conclusion comments on Sri Lanka's Third and Fourth Periodic Reports in January 2002 noted that women and gender concerns have been sufficiently addressed in the formal peace process. This report identifies the legal and policy frameworks have already put in place in Sri Lanka that is needed to fully implement SCR 1325. 2. Current Legal and Policy Framework It has to be noted that the government of Sri Lanka has already in place laws that are in line with the resolution and is keen to make the additional changes to comply in full. a. Constitutional Guaranteed of Sri Lanka The constitutional provisions provide a framework for the implementation of SCR 1325. The equality provisions ensure women's equality before the law and equal protection of the law. b. Women’s Charter The Women's Charter of Sri Lanka was adopted by the goven1ment in March 1993.

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It was a result of years of concerted efforts by many activists and I salute them today for their commitment despite considerable resistance. The Charter was aimed at eradicating sex-based discrimination and at achieving gender equality in all areas of life. It lays down the standards that should be observed in seven broad areas - the right to protection from gender based violence being one - which are relevant in the context of implementing SCR 1325. The Charter - though not legally binding document and cannot be enforced in a court - is a significant step, especially considering that Sri Lanka has a 52% female population and has the distinction of having had the first woman Prime Minister in the World. Such measures shall include:

I. The promotion of legislative reforms. II. Structural reforms to deal with crimes of violence directed against women;

III. Provision of support to non-governmental organizations Importantly, it obliges the state to provide support to non-governmental organizations, CBOs and programmes. c. National Plan of Action for Women 2007 – 2012 (NPAW) The draft NP A W has a comprehensive section on women and peace building, reconciliation and reconstruction, the feminization of poverty in times of conflict, the issue of single-headed households in times of conflict and IDP women. It has a comprehensive section on women IDP's dealing with the lack of representation of women in decision making in welfare centers, the lack of security for women at such centers and the lack of gender sensitivity among camp officials. d. Mental Health Policy of Sri Lanka 2005-2015 The Mental Health Policy was Gazetted in 2005 that stresses the fact that that after the conflict, a section of the population suffers from serious mental illnesses and hence the need for an effective policy to deal with the consequences. 3 Gender Based Violence SCR 1325 calls on all parties to the conflict to protect women from gender based violence. Although the Sri Lankan legal structure can be very much stronger in this area, a framework can be created within which the broad mandate of SCR 1325 to be implemented, especially considering that the current legal framework to deal with gender based violence is comprehensive. a. National Plan of Action for Women 2007 – 2012 The NP A W has a section on violence against women and trafficking in times of conflict and in the transition to peace. It provides an extensive framework to prevent, and address physical, sexual, emotional and cultural violence and addresses trafficking as a form of violence against women. The Plan addresses capacity building of stakeholders including family counselors, judiciary, armed forces, police, media, research on V A W, awareness rising of the available services and legal aid.

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b. Population and Reproductive Health Policy The Population and Reproductive Health Policy was formulated in 1998 and contains several provisions related to violence against women. In its section dealing with gender equality, two strategies are centered around VA W; to review and change laws and practices that are prejudicial to the reproductive health of women and deny them their rights. c. Convention against Torture Act 1994 Under the UN Convention on Torture, ratified by Sri Lanka, sexual and physical violence committed by state officials is considered a violation of human rights and amounts to a violation of the provisions of the Convention. Sri Lanka passed the Convention against Torture Act in 1994 thus incorporating the Convention into domestic law. The Convention is concerned mainly with acts performed by public or state officials in times of conflict, especially as a means of extracting information. Many women have used this avenue of redress and have succeeded in obtaining relief in the Supreme Court. d. Prevention of Domestic Violence Law The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act passed in August 2005 has been resorted as such violence increases in times of conflict and this is of grave concern. It is important that those affected are aware of the legal options available and to ensure that support services are available in the conflict areas. Most often, as the state infrastructure breaks down, access to legal services becomes a challenging task. e. The Criminal Law The existing wide-ranging laws on rape were reinforced and new laws on violence against women and children were brought in. The definition of rape was broadened in keeping with international developments with mandatory sentencing for rape and enhanced sentences for graver forms of rape were incorporated. f. Trafficking Trafficking in women and children is another phenomenon that conflict throws up and needs to be dealt with by the state and is referred to in the NP A W. As the provision on trafficking was not dealt in a holistic manner, new provisions were brought into the law in keeping with the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking of Persons, especially women and children. The state adopted the Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children for Prostitution Act, as a follow up to ratifying the SAARC Convention on Trafficking. g. National Health Policy 2002 (NHP) NHP-2002 envisages the identification of specific programmes targeted at women's health in areas of low access to care and that the expansion of primary health sector infrastructure is needed.

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Although not specifically referring to conflict related health care, such measures did most certainly be of benefit to the IDP camps. 4. Institutional Framework a. Sub Committee on Gender Issues (SGI) SCR 1325 emphasizes the role of women in all aspects of peace making, peace building and reconstruction. An attempt to integrate the role of women in these spheres was seen during the 3rd Peace Talks held between the Sri Lankan Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam in Oslo in December 2002. The formation of a Sub Committee on Gender Issues (SGI) was initiated by both parties to the Sri Lankan conflict and SCR 1325 was cited by these groups as to why' engendering' is important or the peace process at the time. b. Ministry of Child Development and Women’s Empowerment A Ministry of Women's Affairs was established in 1983 - and in 1997 a separate Ministry of Women's Affairs was set up. The authority is now called the Ministry of Child Development and Womens Empowerment and has established a working group of key public officers from each Ministry as 'gender focal points'. These officers deal with issues of gender within their Ministries and are responsible for gender mainstreaming and gender sensitization. The 1325 mandate fits well with the mandate of the Ministry. c. The National Committee on Women The Women's Charter adopted by the Sri Lankan government in 1993 established a National Committee on Women which was mandated to examine the progress made in the realization of the Charter obligations. The Committee functions from within the Ministry of Child Development and Women's Empowerment with a 15member 'National Committee on Women' to monitor women's rights applicable. One of the functions of the Committee was to receive complaints, including those from the conflict zones, and to direct them for appropriate action to relevant administrative authorities. It may also refer complaints to governmental or non-governmental organizations for redress, legal aid or mediation. In May 1999 the National Committee on Women established a 'Centre for Gender Complaints'. The state's commitment to w0men's concerns was seen in the establishment of the Women's Bureau with the ambitious mandate of formulating, initiating and coordinating government polices in relation to women. It was also required to stimulate research, build networks and act as a watchdog with regard to discrimination against women. The bureau has considerable way to go but is an important institution that again facilitates the implementation of SCR 1325. In addition to the institutions listed above, there are others that also have a role to play. Ministries such as those dealing with Resettlement, Nation Building, Defense, Plan Implementation, Housing, Lands, Disaster Management and Human Rights will have to join hands with The Women Empowerment Ministry in order to effectively carry out the mandate of SCR 1325. This especially applies to Sri Lanka where post-conflict efforts challenge the state to resolve numerous issues and will do so for sometime to come.

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5. Gaps in the Legal and Policy Framework Although Sri Lanka has a fairly comprehensive legal framework relating to gender based violence, it falls short in relation to the other issues of women, peace and security as dealt in SCR 1325. Women and gender concerns were largely excluded from the then formal peace process as noted by the CEDAW Committee. Women have also been largely marginalized in the reconstruction and rehabilitation process at the level of participation and decision making and women's leadership has not been sufficiently recognized. Many countries have sought to implement the resolution by passing laws and formulating specific policies and plans on the subject matter dealt with in the Resolution. The Resolution has been integrated into national laws and policies in countries such as Colombia, Israel and Fiji. Other countries such as Denmark, the United Kingdom, Norway, Sweden, Canada, and Switzerland have created separate action plans on SCR 1325. However, they have also sought to integrate the mandate of SCR 1325 into their existing gender and peace and security policies. The following are some ideas on how Sri Lanka can deal with some of the gaps in its legal and policy framework relating to the implementation of SCR 1325 – a. Women, Peace and Security Action Plan or a 1325 Action Plan An Action Plan that targets women, peace and security issues will provide a space to analyze the situation, consult with stakeholders and take strategic action. It primarily creates a sense of ownership among the different actors and directs responsibility on them for implementing the plan. Similarly, the different stakeholders may be held publicly accountable to implement the plan. The advantage of creating awareness among the parties involved through information exchange, training and capacity building is also facilitated. It also provides a coordinated framework by which ministries, departments and other institutions. However, it must provide concrete objectives, a clear time frame within which to achieve its objectives, and compel the different actors to find a base to situate their work on women so affected. b. A Law on Justice and Peace Another method of main streaming gender and SCR 1325 mandates is to include them in a general law on justice and peace. The title to the law could take various forms: A Justice Law, Peace and Security Law, Prevention of Violence and Abuse of Human Rights in times of Conflict are some terminology that maybe employed. For example, Colombian women's groups successfully lobbied to include wording on protecting women's rights and adequately addressing violence against women into a new law. The provisions included victim and witness protection in cases of women affected by violence.

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The formulation of a new law on peace and justice can be time consuming given the experience of law reform in most countries making it fraught with delays - an important fact to keep in mind. c. Proposed Truth and Reconciliation Commission His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka has proposed an 8-member Truth and Reconciliation Commission will study the 2002 February Ceasefire Agreement to the incidents since its collapse and crisis situation until 2009 May. It will be similar to that of the model adopted by South Africa in the post-apartheid era, and one that can be explored by Sri Lanka in a post conflict situation. In the case of South Africa, the TRC was a court-like body set up by statute after the abolishment of apartheid, where any person who had experienced violence was invited to come forward and be heard. Perpetrators of violence could also ask to be heard and to be granted amnesty for their wrongdoings. The South African TRC established three committees:

The Human Rights Violations Committee investigated human rights abuses that occurred between 1960 and 1994.

The Reparation and Rehabilitation Committee was charged with restoring victims' dignity and formulating proposals to assist with rehabilitation.

The Amnesty Committee considered applications from individuals who applied for amnesty in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

The Commission was empowered to grant amnesty to those who committed abuses during the apartheid era, as long as the crimes were politically motivated, proportionate, and there was full disclosure by the person seeking amnesty. The TRC established in a post-conflict Sri Lanka would be a cleansing and purposeful decision. However, it needs to be a useful mechanism to investigate abuses against women during the conflict. 6. Conclusion Many options are available to implement SCR 1325 and the there are an array of existing mechanisms that can be made good use of. Possibilities for setting up new laws and policies exist but it is important that the political will to implement the mandate of 1325 is ever-present. A concerted, coordinated effort on the part of the state, with assistance from the non-state sector, will ensure that SCR 1325 is implemented in a meaningful manner in Sri Lanka. It is with some pride that I say that our brave armed forces were able to overcome a resilient and well-organized separatist organization - but there are many lessons to be learnt in the field of reconciliation and rehabilitation. Sadly, the war has left on both sides many mothers without their sons, wives widowed and children who will never see their fathers again. Today, in this very gathering, there are many countries that have on-going conflicts and, in that sense, my country is fortunate to see normalcy return to all our peoples.

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Sri Lanka is committed to make amends and to help those who need it - and in that process, SCR 1325 will certainly be a guiding light. List of Laws

a) Prevention of Domestic Violence Act No. 34 of 2005

b) Penal Code (Penal Code Amendment No. 22 of 1995)

c) Fundamental Rights Chapter of the constitution. (Ch.III)

d) Convertion against Torture Act 1994 Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children

for Prostitution Act No. 30 of 2005 List of Policies

a) Women’s charter 1993

b) National health policy 1998 –http://www.familyhealth.gov.lk/about _us.php

c) National plan of action for women 2007 – 2012 (NPAW)

d) The national mental health policy http://64.23 3 .169.1 04/search?q=cache:33k07m UAdjolwww.documents.gov.lk/Extgzt/2005/pdf lNov/1418-33/1418-33e.pdf+national+mental+health+policy&h1=en&ct=clnk&cd=9&gl=lk Draft mental health act http://www.health.gov.lk/mental_health_act.html

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PRESENTATION (Anis Haroon – Chairperson NCSW)

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PRESENTATION (Dr. Farzana Bari, Expert) Honorable Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fahmida Mirza, Respected parliamentarians, Ladies and Gentlemen, Asalamalikum and good afternoon. Let me take the opportunity to congratulate Women Parliamentary Caucus for organizing this conference and taking a lead in reflecting on and determining women's parliamentarians' role in Conflict Resolution. Let me make few statements before I deliberate what women' parliamentarians can do to prevent and resolve conflicts? Firstly, we should not confine women's role only to conflict resolution, women have a role to play in preventing conflicts as well as in the reconstruction phase of post-conflict situations and also of course in peace building. Secondly, it will be erroneous to assume that all women are inherently peace builder and can playa role in conflict resolution. The dichotomy of men as worriers and women as peace lovers needs to be challenged and deconstructed in the light of women's active role, support and participation in conflict and political violence around the world. Even in Pakistan - Ladies and Gentlemen - we should not forget the active role played by women students of Jamia Hafsa who demonstrated a shocking level of aggression and militancy in Islamabad in 2007. They terrorized the Islamabad administration and citizens through their vigilante actions. There is also research based evidence available now·· that shows some women from Malakand region actively supported Tehreek-e-Nifaz-e-·Shariat-e-Muhammadi (TNSIVI). Similarly, women belonging to various religio-political parties do support patriarchal control over women's lives and mobility and actively oppose gender equality agenda. Let us not forget there are many masculine women amongst us who identify with male power and politics and act the same way as men do when entered in traditionally male dominated parliaments Ladies and Gentlemen As you know, all types of conflict whether political, economic or social are gendered in nature and have differential impact and effects on men and women. Women often suffered the most from conflicts as their experience is mediated through their gender and social positioning. Women lack equal access to opportunities, resources and power due to their subordinate social and economic position; therefore, they are more vulnerable to conflict as they have least capacity to cope with the impact of conflicts. It is well documented by researchers from the experiences around the world that women's vulnerabilities are exacerbated. it') conflict situations. \Nomen face gender specific vulnerabilities during conflict and displacement such as sexual violence, rape trafficking, kidnapping, forced marriages, sexual harassment, etc. As women suffer the most in conflicts, therefore, they have the higher stakes in preventing conflicts and interest in the reconciliation and post conflict restructuring processes. Ladies and Gentlemen If you analyses myriad form of contemporary conflicts today, you will find a strong interconnection between masculinity, militarization and the violent conflicts at the

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inter and intra-state level. This nexus is foremost to be challenged for the lasting and sustainable peace and who can do this job better than women parliamentarians. Today the most of the conflicts that pose existential threats to the state and the society in Pakistan are internal·· stemming from rising religious militancy, widening gap between haves and haves not and the regional disparities. Now the question is how women parliamentarian can play a role in conflict resolution? First of all women parliamentarians should take a holistic view of the conflict and identify the structural root causes of internal and external conflicts. They need to make a conceptual shift and move away from the notion of the state security to people's security and should push for those legislations and policies that reverse inequalities and injustices which are the root cause of conflict and threatens societal peace. Women parliamentarians should take a lead in ensuring that gender perspective is integrated into reconstruction, reconciliation and security paradigms.; The UN Security Council Resolution 1820 defines rape and other forms of sexual violence as war crimes and the UN Resolution 1325 demands giving women equal participation and full involvement in peace and security matters and gives them an increased roles in decision making. These provides tremendous space and opportunity to women parliamentarians to ensure that women's voices and concerns are integrated in conflict resolution and reconstruction and they need to ensure that women's are represented in all institutional structures/ committees that are set up to deal with conflict, security and peace matters. In the post-conflict phases social structures are often broken down or destabilized. This space can be used to transform political and gender relations in the reconstruction phase if actors are gender aware. The key challenge to those women parliamentarians who want to bring the substantial difference to politics comes from the male dominated patriarchal political party and legislative structures. There are often pressures on them to be the same as men. Therefore, it is imperative to understand that if women parliamentarians are committed to play a role in peace building and conflict resolution, they need to build their own power base within countries and across borders. The need to build partnerships with citizens. Networking with peace organization and activists at the national, regional and international level is the only way forward for women politicians to enforce their transformative agenda for lasting and sustainable peace at the national, regional and international level.

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WORKING SESSION 2 Women and Security (Police reforms, domestic violence bill, women at workplace harassment bill, and other women related domestic issues to be discussed under this head)

- Shawkat Ara Begum, MP Bangladesh - Senator Shirala Malik (MQM) - Ranee S Saral, MP (India) - Hina Jilani (Expert) - Saba Khatak, Member Social Sector, Planning Commission of Pakistan

PRESENTATION (Shawkat Ara Begum, MP Bangladesh) Introduction: The building and maintaining of peace, security and stability in a society depends upon the equal participation of men and women. Therefore, the inclusion of women in all sectors of society is important, whether as decision makers in positions of public office, in parliament or as participants in advocacy, capacity building and peacekeeping activities at the ground level. Peace and security are key goals in achieving a stable society. Having more women in governance and other prominent public office positions generally contributes to greater focus on women's issues and also encourages more political engagement at the grassroots level by ordinary women. Women's perspectives and experiences are important in helping to reinforce gender justice through the promotion of inclusive political systems and legal reforms in post conflict situations. In addition, the participation of women in peacekeeping efforts can have a profound impact on societal stability through conflict resolution and the reconciliation of human relationships. However, women in many parts of the world continue to be denied their right to participate in important decisions that affect their lives, leading to the neglect of women's concerns. Therefore, in order to build and maintain a stable and peaceful society, governments should actively incorporate women into political processes. Presently, women's presence in public space represents one indicator for Goal 3 of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals - to promote gender equality and empower women. However, while the number of female leaders and parliamentarians has increased in the last decade, there is still a need for greater female representation in order to highlight women's issues and help enact policies for necessary and positive change. Facts and Figures form World Scenario:

Women are outnumbered by men, four to one, in legislatures around the world.

A 30% minimum for women in representative assemblies was set as a target

at the Fourth World Conference for Women held in Beijing in 1995, although the parity zone is considered to be between 40 to 60 percent. Since 1995, this 30% benchmark set as the 'critical mass' has been attained in 22 countries, including six African countries.

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The proportion of women in national assemblies has increased by 8% to the current global average of 18.4% in the decade from 1998 to 2008, compared to an increase of just 1 % in the two decades after 1975.

95 countries worldwide apply some form of quotas to increase the number of

women in parliament. Out of the 22 countries that boast 30% or more women in national assemblies, 18 of them applied quotas in some form.

Women's participation in peace negotiations remains extremely low,

constituting approximately 7.6% of the 11 peace processes.

Today, more than 110,000 peacekeepers from across the world serve in 18 UN peace operations as police and military personnel, with women constituting a greater presence than ever before. (Taken from UNIFEM resources)

Women's Political Participation in Bangladesh: Overcoming all barriers of patriarchy, women of Bangladesh have become more politically visible in the last two decades. The country has been run by female prime ministers for the last 18 years. The participation of female candidates in the election of 2008 exceeds all previous records. A total of 60 candidates contested directly, out of which 19 won. A quota has ensured women's presence in the local government and National Parliament. Presently a total 64 women (45 women in reserved seats and 19 women in elected seats) are representing in national parliament in Bangladesh. Despite many odds, statistics and analyses reveal a slowly growing trend towards women's political participation. Role of Women Parliamentarians: The exclusion of women from politics stems primarily from entrenched patriarchal attitudes that lead gender discrimination, thus creating obstacles that prevent women from taking up political roles in society. It also results in the formulation of laws and policies that neither reflect the needs of the entire community nor support the progress of women's rights. Such imbalance can potentially undermine women's efforts to assert themselves or seek legal redress when their rights are abused. Therefore, in order to provide greater protection of women's needs and rights, governments should adopt more democratic and inclusive policies to increase female participation in politics. Indeed, studies on female governance across the world have shown that there is generally a greater focus on women's issues, such as childcare and social protection, when there are more women in parliament. Moreover, the experiences and perspectives offered by women also allow for a greater plurality of views to be considered in policy design. Similarly, just as the presence of women in influential decision-making processes is crucial, women at [he ground level can also have a powerful impact on maintaining peace and security, especially in parts of the world that are facing war and conflict. Given the sharp increase in sexual violence perpetrated against women as a military and political tactic in situations of conflict, women's contribution in decision-making becomes even more important. In fact, the United Nations Security Council specifically addressed the impact of war on women for the first time in its groundbreaking Resolution 1325, stressing the importance of women's inclusion in conflict resolution and their essential role in peace building.

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Need to Address for Change: Increasing the number of women in key public decision-making and peacekeeping processes is a matter of democratic justice and ensures better government accountability to women. Implementing quotas can be an effective method for increasing women's political engagement. In elections held in 2007, the average representation of women was 19.3% in those countries that used some type of electoral quota, as opposed to 14.7% for those countries without quotas, regardless of electoral system. The designing and implementation of gender-sensitive policies and legislative reforms, backed by strong commitment and political will. Providing public institutions with the skills, incentives, resources and procedures to respond to women's needs and issues while monitoring the progress of these measures. Teaching women and girls to understand and asse11 their rights while equipping them with the skills and resources to become active participants and leaders in various sectors of society. Facilitating women's grassroots peace work and linking them to formal organizations. Work with Women, which aims to bring the concerns of women to political parties and also help them follow up on campaign promises made by the various political parties. Women's movements can playa pivotal role in lobbying for change. Increasing awareness about the role that women can play in reinstating peace and security; and also to urge for the government to curb practices that are detrimental to women and girls in times of conflict. Insisting on accountability regarding government actions when women's needs and rights have not been protected, and where necessary, to initiate investigations or to get compensation and redress, especially in post-conflict situations. Promoting the ratification, implementation, and reporting on women's international and regional women's instruments such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and using them to frame new legislation, build partnerships to foster women's participation, and bring gender equality into post-conflict reconstruction. Influencing cultural mindsets and behaviours in order to eradicate entrenched discriminatory attitudes against women, while promoting the idea of women as equal and capable leaders of society.

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PRESENTATION (Senator Shirala Malik - MQM) Honorable President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif All Zardari Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Revered Chairman, Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek, Revered Speaker, National Assemlby, Dr. Fehmida Mirza, My Fellow Parliamentarians From The Country And The Region And Distinguished Guests, ASSALAM-O-ALAIKUM I am pleased to be in attendance at this National Convention of Women Parliamentarians on “The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation”. It is a day to celebrate the invaluable leadership of potential of female representatives of our dear homeland. This meaningful occasion highlighting the role of Women Parliamentarians for “Working towards a better living environment in terms of Peace, Security and Reconciliation" is of great significance to our country and our region. Today, we see our world and our South Asian Region reeling from devastating effects of turmoil, violence, terrorism, extremism, fundamentalism and an overall attitude of intolerance and impatience. Women are the crown of creation and as Colette once said, "The Woman who thinks she is intelligent demands equal rights with men. A woman who is intelligent does not". A Pakistani woman needs to be told about the rights and the Government and the civil society owe her to provide an environment safe and conducive for her many potentials. Pakistan acceded to CEDAW in 1996 and how the response that hindrances and difficulties are experienced mostly due to local customs and other cultural practices is unacceptable. No doubt, the passage of New Bills to empower women, like Women Harrassment Bill and Domestic Violence Bill neutral policies such as the National Plan for Development and Empowerment of women and the National Plan of Action are all steps in the right direction but the recommendations being made by the Parliamentary Standing Committees on Women Development and the steps devised by Ministry of Women Development needs to be reinforced with by a will and a union hand. The lack of NIC's disenfranchises almost half of all women, denies access to Government Schemes and benefits, excludes women from credit and opening bank accounts and impedes women's access to relief. The Government needs to take more stringent measures to close illegal FM Radio Stations inciting people to violence, declaring girl's education, polio vaccination and contraceptives, as un-Islamic. Electoral process in Pakistan requires urgent steps by the Government to certain political violence and unrest; elections wherein 10% of the vote cast is not female should be declared null and void; laws are required to ensure safety of female voters as well as candidates, an accurate voters list needs to be ensured and involvement and representation of all political party leaders including females needs to be ensured.

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We need to find a solution to the persistent instability and lack of security in FATA Gilgit Balitistan and discourage trends like banning women form voting in recent bye-elections in Bajaur Agency in FATA. The main factor at the root cause of insecurity in the country is a lack of power and choice over their lives, leading to economic and social deprivation on many levels. Power is knowledge. Power is voice. Power is choice. Power is ownership and power is a sense of security and happiness. There is a need to make access of this power achievable fear of our women. In reality, the existing laws protecting women's basic security and inadequately enforced and there has not been satisfactory effort by law enforcers and Police to implement upon them in letter and spirit. We need to strive more to introduce additional revised or supplementary measures that are better able to address the gender specific issues of women's lack of security. Women's killings, rape, acid attacks and mutilation and most importantly convictions need to be worked upon untiringly to strike a difference. Loopholes need to be plugged at any cost. Women working on all levels of decision making in national, regional and international institutions as well as in the field must be increased. Men's mindset has to be changed and they have to be trained with reference to gender sensitive issues. All parties to armed conflict must respect existing international laws protecting women and girls especially from gender based violence. Where violations have been committed, state have to end impurity. Following on this path, the government through the Ministry of Women Development is keen to support the development of an implementation plan on SCR 1325 and in general advance gender sensitive approaches to peace keeping. To ensure women's inclusion in the peace building process in Pakistan, as well as to facilitate the achievement of their economic and human security, the Ministry of Women Development and UNIFEM and in the process developing a strategic framework intervention on women, peace and security. Regarding Harassment of women Bill, it is a good step that the focus has now been shifted from victim to the harasser for whom now there is also an urgent need to make the Women Police, strong and effective. The staff working in Women Crisis Centers and Shelter Homes needs to be dedicated and trained. We must ensure peace and security so that parents may send their daughters for education and earning fearlessly in an environment that encourages creativity, a better quality of life and a space for all humans including women to enjoy their fundamental rights. There is also a consistent need to overview the existing polices but also to ensure speedy monitoring, implementation and check and balance for ultimate success. Lastly I would like to take this opportunity to salute the women parliamentarians of our country who have taken the initiative and stepped up in a unison for the betterment of the female gender as a whole. Legends like Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto as well as dignitaries like our Speaker of National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza are undoubtedly leader and role model in the true spirit of women empowerment. It is an obligation to follow their footsteps and work together towards over whelming issues faced by the women of today. Thank you.

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PRESENTATION (Ranee S Saral, MP - India) Speech on the Session "Women and Conflict Resolution" for the use of the Indian Delegation to the National Convention of Women Parliamentarians organized by the Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) on the theme The Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation to be held in Islamabad, Pakistan, from 24 to 26 May 2010 . Madame Chairperson and Distinguished Delegates: I am thankful to the chair for giving me this opportunity to express my views at this session on the theme “Women and Conflict Resolution”. As we all are aware, conflict arises in society when parties or groups have incompatible or conflicting interests, values and goals. Conflict resolution involves processes including negation, mediation and diplomacy so as to finding solutions for the termination of such conflicts. Efforts to resolve violent conflicts can only by effective in the long-term, when they are based on active participation of all segments of civil society, including women. The emergence of conflicts and their resolution have been attracting the attention of societies of centuries. In recent years, conflict and its resolution have acquired the –deserved urgency globally. As you would recall, the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 of 2000 had called upon all actors to ensure the full participation of women in the peace processes and their increase full participation of women in the peace processes and their increased representation at all decision-making levels. There area number of other international commitments to secure women’s right to full involvement in political and economic decision-making processes, through numerous resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDA W) and the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action. It is a matter of grave concern that, in spite of these initiatives, millions of women and children continue to account for a majority of casualties in hostilities across the world. In armed conflicts and post-conflict situations, women bear the brunt of shattered economies and social structures. Despite this, women remain excluded from conflict prevention, and gender-based early warning indicators are largely ignored. This exclusion inhibits effective prevention efforts and social transformation towards the building of more peaceful and gender equal societies. In order to strengthen the efforts for conflict resolution, it is imperative to involve women in the process because women could increase the inclusiveness, transparency and sustainability of the peace process. They could also bring about a different perspective to negotiations, raising issues that might otherwise be ignored. A gender perspective in the peace process could lead to long-term advancement of women's equality. Since it has been known that women often work to sustain the peace agreement at all levels, needless to say the peace process is compromised when women do not participate. Today, there is an urgent need to strengthen peace-building strategies, accelerate the process of democratic development and, in particular, to emphasize the crucial role of women parliamentarians in making meaningful contributions towards preventing conflicts and resolving problems amicably. In India, one of the important functions of our Parliament is to remain constantly and closely in touch with the emerging needs and problems of all sections of our society, including those belonging to the disadvantaged sections, minorities and women. Our Parliament is

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the supreme representative institution which reflects people's voice, as also their urges and hopes. The constitutional provisions for affirmative action to correct social inequalities and our Parliament's initiatives in enacting path breaking legislations to provide for protective discrimination in favour of the socially disadvantaged, for safeguarding and reinforcing the democratic rights of such sections and the ongoing initiatives for the empowerment of women have significantly contributed to maintaining peace, harmony and social cohesion among the vastly diverse socio-religious segments of our population. As women parliamentarians, we have an onerous task before us to assess the failures and achievements in the area of conflict management and resolution. We need to have a deeper understanding of the various dimensions of conflicts to pre-empt them and explore the required intervention for building peace and facilitating the process of reconciliation. We hope that the discussions and exchanges of experiences during this Conference will give us greater insights into the problem and equip us to play a more meaningful role in the future. Thank you.

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WORKING SESSION 3 Effects of Conflict on Women - Plight of Internally Displaced Women

- Fauzia Koofi, MP from Afghanistan - Rahila Durani, MPA Balochistan - Robina Saigal, (Expert)

PRESENTATION (Fauzia Koofi, MP - Afghanistan) Afghanistan is a country of approximately is 34 million. According to U.N. estimates, by 2050 it could reach a staggering 90 million. That rapid population growth and the demographics that go with it drive most of Afghanistan's worst problems, after 30 years of war and devastation and five years under the Taliban authorities, has left Afghanistan as one of the poorest countries in the world. Afghanistan has the second highest maternal mortality rate in the world. Even before the Taliban came to power, Afghanistan had high maternal and child mortality rates and a very low literacy rate for women. But women participated economically, socially and politically in the life of their societies. Women helped to draft the 1964 Constitution. I n the 1970s, there were at least three women legislators in the Parliament. Up to the early 1990s, women were teachers, government workers and medical doctors. They worked as professors, lawyers, judges, journalists, writers and poets. After the Taliban's rise to power, women and girls were systematically discriminated against and marginalized, and their human rights were violated. This resulted in the deteriorating economic and social conditions of women and girls in all areas of the country, in particular in areas under Taliban control. Women and girls continued to be severely restricted in their access to education, health care facilities and employment. During the Taliban's rule, only about 3 per cent of girls received some form of primary education. The ban on women's employment also affected boys' education, as the majority of teachers had been women. Poor health conditions and malnutrition made pregnancy and childbirth exceptionally dangerous for Afghan women. The Taliban's policies also severely limited women's freedom of movement. Women could travel only when accompanied by a male relative, which put a particular strain on female-headed households and widows. In May 2001, a decree was issued by the Taliban, banning women from driving cars, which further limited their activities. The resulting seclusion of women to the home constituted a form of solitary confinement and also created obstacles to women meeting with each other. Women were harassed and beaten by the Taliban if their public appearance was perceived to be in contradiction with Taliban edicts. Women's removal from the public space also meant that women could not play any role in the political process and were excluded from all forms of formal or informal governance. Afghan women suffered domestic and other types of violence for the past 25 years, not just under the Taliban regime. Despite many years of concern about the situation of Afghan women, it is only now, under conditions of extreme tragedy, political violence and destruction, that the situation has propelled Afghanistan and the plight of its women and girls firmly back into the global spotlight. For the first time outside in the countries history 95 women represents in the parliament, constitution article no 22 provides equal right and opportunities for women. And the ministry of women affairs has been established bases on the Bonn conference agreement.

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Afghan women welcomesd those year after 2001 as golden opportunities for women progress. However, in recent year, arising problem of security and social injustice makes it much more difficult for women to be part of the processes. We see there are two wars going on in Afghanistan. One is to defeat the Taliban, and extremism in the region. The other is to liberate women, and that war has hardly begun. If the first war is won but the second is lost, Afghanistan will turn into a failed state -- a caldron of violence and misery, home to extremism and totally outside the Western orbit of influence

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PRESENTATION (Rahila Hameed Khan Durrani, Provincial Minister for Prosecution)

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PRESENTATION (Robina Saigal -Expert)

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PRESENTATION Begum Noreen Arif, Minister, Azad Kashmir

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WORKING SESSION 4 Engaging Media for Peace

- Khushbakht Shujaat (MNA) - Shazia Mari Provincial Minister for Information, Sindh - Zofeen Ibrahim (Expert) - Ranee Naral, MP India

PRESENTATION: (Khushbakht Shujaat -MNA) "Engaging Media for Peace" At the National Convention of Women Parliamentarians On the theme of "Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation". Convention Centre, Islamabad, May 24-26, 2010 Respected Lady Parliamentarians of Pakistan, distinguished guests from abroad 1. For the past few decades we· have been hearing about the term "global village", implying that the world has become smaller, and that it has brought together the entire world as if one nation, a community living in peace, tranquility and harmony. In reality it is not so. The world may have shrunk, as we see around us. Distances do not matter anymore. We reach places within hours instead of in days and weeks. We do not write and send letters by sea or air mail, which reached after 10 days if sent to USA. We write a letter on the computer and send it by email, which reaches instantly, within seconds! There was a time when we had to book a telephone call and await the call to be connected. Today we talk person to person, on our mobiles, across continents. But what is most amazing is that news of events is communicated to each and every corner of the world within seconds through a network which has by now engulfed the whole world in a giant spider's web, covering the entire surface of the globe. Yes, it is through this phenomenon which we call MEDIA. News as it happens, is disseminated around the world instantly through the Media, of which we have many types. 2. From print to electronic, the media is a powerful instrument which can be harnessed by human beings to serve any purpose, good or bad, beneficial or harmful to society or individuals. News on the media can also trigger off wars, while on the other hand It can also promote peace and understanding. 3. Ladies and Gentlemen, we women parliamentarians who have gathered here today realize that the wars of the 21st century are no longer ground battles with armies of equal strength facing each other. Now the wars are in the form of attacks by the stronger nations on the weak nations; wars which are fought to win over the "minds and hearts'" of the people; psychological wars. Then there are economic interests, commerce and trade rivalries; there is the desire to preserve one's own way of life, a cause for which Nations justify themselves to fight wars. All these are conflicts which create a state of confrontation and war, the opposite of peace. The saddest aspect of this situation is that it is the womenfolk who are affected, most. Then the families are displaced from their homes as a result of these conflicts, which persist despite a United Nations Organization formed to maintain equilibrium in the world.

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4. Every country and its government seeks to provide its people with a quality of life, where they remain in good health, receive education and have enough means to live a comfortable life traveling around the world or enjoying all the modern facilities which make a person comfortable .. But it cannot do so when there is no peace. As in Pakistan, we have to spend on defending our borders and our ideologies at the cost of providing quality of life to the citizens. In such cases the promotion of peace is extremely vital and for which this giant spider's web, the Media can be used effectively at all times. 5. Media today is not just conveying news; it is commenting on it, giving interpretations and views, and analyzing it. This is so as behind the solid glass of the T.V. Screen, and of the print on the paper there are human beings, persons who have their own personality and who follow the policies for whom they work. Hence now the media is also personalized. We see this is the form of the new trend of holding 'Talk Shows', Keeping in mind their popularity and the number of viewers, they have the capacity to change the thinking of people and of governments and thus channelize them towards the objective of attaining peace. A conscious effort is thus required on the part of the policy makers towards this end. 6. Although we talk of how much we value a free press but it is realized that even in the case of free and democratic nations, it is not free. There is always a national policy in all countries whether announced or not, by way of a media regulatory framework, implementation of which ensured by government, both visible and invisible. In cases where the policy is not ensured, the Media per~9nnel have their own concept of national interests in their mind and they consider themselves to be patriots. 7. We thus see that the personalities behind the news also make a difference. Speaking of Talk Shows we find the Anchor Persons rising - in popularity, and becoming celebrities! They are fast becoming the Icons of our youth, standing at par with sports persons and stars of the entertainment world. As such these Anchor Persons can also be specifically engaged as peace-makers, In their daily social lives they can become agents of change and of harbingers of peace in the society; they could also be trained to engage with people in conflict areas and be instrumental and influential in forming public opinion; they could be sent as ambassadors-at large, special envoys to work for peace by talking to the people. So that idea of media is not only the abstract but also the personal aspect with which we can engage for peace purposes. 8. Ladies and Gentlemen, the purpose of this Conference is to define our role as women pe.r1iamentarians in bringing about peace, security and reconciliation. We in the Assembly represent 50% of our population i.e. the women of Pakistan and are thus deeply concerned to have peace in the country for our children generations. Persons like me are Parliamentarians and members of the Media of the country, identified as a 'media person'. As such we actively participate in the Government's efforts for conflict resolutions and peace-keeping measures. We thus join hands in ensuring that we formulate a Policy to engage the media in all efforts for peace

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PRESENTATION (Shazia Mari Provincial Minister for Information – Sindh) Excellencies! I am honored to have been invited as a discussant at this first National Convention of Women Parliamentarians, and privileged to be speaking on an issue that is particularly relevant to our region "Engaging media for peace." I give it particular relevance owing to two things,

1. the on going tensions and conflicts at our borders, and 2. the undeniable power of the Press in this region.

Ever mindful of the time constraints, I chose to divide "engaging media for peace" into two sub categories:

a) The necessity of such engagement, which deals of course, with the circumstances leading for said necessity to arise

b) The methodology of initiating, establishing and ensuing continuation of said

engagement Why' today, is it necessary to engage the media for peace? OUf turbulent history and current situation makes it imperative for all facets of society to engage themselves. in ensuring that peace is established in the region. Our law enforcement agencies, Parliamentarians, and civil society organizations, all unite in this common goal. It is therefore necessary now to harness the substantial potential of the media towards this goal. Having had the opportunity to handle media affairs for the Sindh Government, I am inclined to agree with noted French historian and political thinker Alexis de Tocqueville when he said "The power of the Press is second only to that of the people." It is this formidable power that we must now direct towards the establishment and retention of peace in the region. Today Pakistan, as a nation, is one of the strongest advocates and practitioners of Press freedom, regardless of its checkered history. Indeed this tenet is enshrined in Article 19 of our Constitution, to offer safeguards to the press in fulfilling its responsibilities. Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed was a champion of press freedom, and considered the lack of such freedoms reprehensible. She believed, and I quote, "It is when people are kept in the dark that the greatest travesties in our world have occurred. It is when journalists are whipped for telling the truth, that we are in the greatest danger." In keeping with this belief, the present democratic government strives to ensure and safeguard Press freedoms. But what we must understand is that freedom of the press is not an end in itself. It is instead, the means to achieving the end, which is a free society. And no society can ever hope to gain a semblance of freedom without the essential proponent of peace. It is safe to conclude therefore that in order for free media to achieve its goal of a free society, it must first strive to establish peace. Throughout the years there have been numerous examples of media mobilization for peace. Conflict ridden areas and war zones have endeavored to utilize this very powerful tool to establish peace, while areas of relative calm have used the media to ensure the longevity of their stability. Media has raised its voice for the Palestinian cause, the conflicts in Gulf states, the Middle east, West Africa, and occupied Kashmir, just to name a few. Even in this region, efforts to use the power of the

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media have begun with the collaborative efforts of Pakistani and Indian media houses, aimed at transcending borders' to achieve common goals. But many atrocities, apartheids, and genocides across the world, have gone unchecked because media was at that time, not as widespread, and resultantly, not as effective. It is therefore not only an opportunity, but is our responsibility, our duty to utilize the potential of the media today. It is incumbent upon us to first bring to light the facts, without bias, and THEN work towards a peaceful coexistence despite the odds being against such a state. The initial step for engagement of the media would be the establishment of a common platform for peace. A platform from which all stakeholders rise together to promote and establish peace. For although individual efforts are important) and one might argue that the oceans fill a drop at a time) it is mandatory in the greater interest, to exert combined concentrated efforts from one platform - for one goal. But to work for the promotion of peace, it is important that within the media itself, the environment is peaceful and conducive to such efforts. History is witness to the fact that whenever women have assumed positions _,e leadership, results have been astounding and long lasting. The media must therefore endeavor to facilitate and promote the work of women in its ranks, in order to initiate and establish an effective strategy" for peace. Additionally, a comprehensive media development strategy that includes citizen participation is an essential part of peace-building efforts in post-conflict environments. It is imperative today that the media in collaboration with other stake holders systematically establish an information landscape of freedom, transparency and accountability, where the electronic and print media shall become veritable watchdogs of human security, and platforms for mobilization and discourse on the processes to promote human rights and the rule of law, social harmony, democracy and development. It is necessary also that the media make concentrated efforts to ensure that it is not used to manufacture and spread prejudices, lies and other falsehoods so as to incite some sections specifically defined and set aside to be so treated, solely on the basis of perceived differences - social, cultural, religious, ethnic or otherwise. The task of engaging media in promoting peace is not an easy one - it requires methodology, persistence and the conviction to serve a common end. But I believe firmly, that the results will be well worth the efforts exerted to ensure such an engagement.

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PRESENTATION: (Zofeen Ibrahim - Expert) Interesting time to be in journalism And interesting that we are talking about peace? What does peace mean to us? It is different for different people, but the goal is the same - to meet our needs. End of conflict for those in Orakzai, for the hungry or starving it means sleeping on a full stomach or end to hunger pangs, Ultimately peace is no more or less than a state of mind reflected in our immediate environment, and it can never be realized unless all our needs are being met. Human rights: Defined in many ways but ultimately these fit into food, shelter, housing, healthcare; education; the right to express yourself, a safe and secure environment. Shaky transition from a nine years of military rule to democracy Ensuing political instability, lawlessness and conflict has criminalized politics and politicized crime. So as I said it's interesting to be doing journalism ... many of us who are supposed to be covering news are becoming news themselves. Many live the stories they write. Many write their stories through the stories of others, their neighbors... In a society cursed with extreme inequality, it becomes relevant all the more to speak for the least heard. I don't want to be an indifferent observer sitting in an ivory tower of objectivity but one who is engaged, concerned and wanting to make a difference. But the price may be high. Media is a double-edged sword. Weapon of violence when it propagates messages of intolerance or dis-information, manipulates public sentiment And it can be used as an instrument of conflict resolution - presenting reliable information, respecting human rights, presents diverse views. And in this quest, sometimes we forget lose sight of who we are and become party to the fight --become activists, reinforcing existing prejudices. All eyes are upon us – we seem to be in the news and for most time, not for all the right reasons. But perhaps while we are in the lime-time. We can slide in/ slip in some positions too. PEMRA more a controller than a partner. And as I said it's an interesting time to be in journalism - also quite risky….It depends on how you are willing to use journalism – a weapon, or an instrument.

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Print media: In 1997 the total number of daily, monthly, and minor publications was 4,455 but by 2003, six years later, only 945 remained

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PRESENTATION: (Ranee Narah, MP, India) At the very outset I would like to thank the Women's Parliamentary Caucus of Pakistan and the Government of Pakistan for the warm reception and kind courtesies extended to me. I bring to you the greetings and good wishes of the Women Parliamentarians and the people of India. The topic 'Engaging Media for Peace' is an acknowledgement that the media has evolved into an extremely powerful and influential tool. We have to consider and deliberate on this within the central theme of this conference, which is the focus on the' role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation. On October 31st 2000, the Security Council unanimously passed Resolution 1325 that among other things called for ensuring that more women participate in peace-building decision-making processes. This was a landmark development that admitted the relevance of women to peace processes. The media has always exercised an enormous impact upon society. As one leading media authority put it, "societies have always been shaped more by the nature of the media by which men communicate than by the content of the communication." Our perception and interpretation of developments and events and the way we think and act is influenced to varying degrees by the media. Accurate information and analysis is central to any conflict situation. Sometimes the media, unwittingly perhaps, becomes a part of the conflict. We all know that a "negative 'message" put out by the media can worsen conflict situations. However, journalists have the power to become a part of solution and act as messengers of peace and reconciliation. This depends upon what reference point the media and individual media persons see for themselves. The digital age has thrown up its own challenges by giving people unprecedented access to global events with immediate and. detailed reporting. At the same time, the media too has access to more people than before. The media can help in several ways: ensure that people's expectations are realistic; facilitate communication by providing all the parties the opportunity to speak and to see each other's position without bias; help to prevent the circulation and broadcasting of propaganda, which hinders the building of trust; avoid stereo-typing of groups and communities; participate in the process of social reconstruction and democratization. Suffice it to say that the media has vast responsibilities in conflict and post-conflict areas and reliable, professional, sensitive reporting serves to strengthen the cause of peace. Of course, a very basic element is that the media must keep the larger public interests in view and combine it with sensitivity. What constitutes responsible journalism is a topic for discussion by itself. As Women Parliamentarians, the challenge for us is to ensure that women are engaged - in whatever roles whether as humble bread winners, entrepreneurs, civil servants, political figures or as media persons - in peace processes and post-conflict reconstruction. We represent a constituency whose plight in conflict situations goes ignored and whose interests often take a backseat when peace and reconciliation

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negotiations occur. There is no doubt in my mind that today we need to enlist the cooperation of the media and engage the media more vigorously for peace. This engagement cannot but advocate the rightful role and interests of women in all such peace-related processes. The gender bias has to be removed when it comes to dealing with Issues as vital as peace, security and reconciliation. In my own country, I am encouraged that Indian women are becoming increasingly visible and successful in the professional and public sphere. In the metropolitan English language media, women makeup constitute close to 50 percent of the newsroom in some places. There are women, if not at the top spots, but fairly close to the top of the editorial hierarchy. Several TV anchors are well recognized public faces. More importantly, women have also begun to make a mark in the so-called language media. There is still however the need to promote the trend towards having more women in every section and level of the media. I am also aware that at the regional level we have associations like the South Asian Women in Media's (SAWM), which held its first regional conference in Lahore last year. I am confident that at both national and regional levels, women in media will contribute proactively to building peace and articulating women-specific concerns. Before concluding, I would also like to thank the WPC and the Secretariat 'for the excellent arrangements made for the conference. We have discussed a broad range of subjects and I am sure that all of us have benefited from the exchange of perspectives, views and experiences.

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WORKING SESSION 5 Building Networks for Peace Presentation Dr. Ruquiya Hashmi, MPA & Minister for Inter Provincial Coordination Department, Balochistan

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ANNEXURE 5 - Convention Newsletters (Volume - 1)

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BULLETIN (Volume - 1)

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ANNEXURE 6 – Media Clipping

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Media Clipping

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Media Clipping

“The speaker thanked provincial legislators for their …the convention, Mr Ali Imran, Event Manager from Ace Production, Ms. Rubina Rauf from Lok Virsa and Mr. Attique Ullah Khan

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