SWAT: Speakers at a workshop here on Friday emphasised the need for collective action to eliminate violence against women for creating a peaceful and just society.

The workshop titled ‘capacity building of EVAWG (Ending Violence Against Women and Girls) Alliance Swat’ aimed at providing better support, raise awareness and advocate for systemic change to protect vulnerable populations.

It was organised by Aurat Foundation, bringing together a diverse group of participants, including legal experts, police representatives, government officials and journalists.

Shebna Ayaz, a representative of Aurat Foundation, highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in fighting gender-based violence. She said: “To achieve a society free from violence, we must work together to ensure that we are all aligned in the fight against injustice.”

The workshop featured other key speakers, including Saima Munir, the provincial manager of Aurat Foundation, and Samreen Hakeem Advocate, the focal person of EVAWG Alliance. They underlined the significance of empowering the EVAWG Alliance through comprehensive capacity-building measures.

“Empowering EVAWG Alliance is essential for tackling the abuses faced by women and girls within our society,” said Samreen Hakeem, emphasising the need for a united front in addressing these critical issues.

There were in-depth discussions on advocacy strategies, legal frameworks and support mechanisms that can be implemented to assist women, who are victims of violence and other forms of injustice.

Published in Dawn, February 15th, 2025