Human Rights and Peace. USAID’s HumAhang Project Hosts Transformative Conference
Islamabad:A two-day conference on “Human Rights as the Foundation for Sustainable Peace” successfully concluded, by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) HumAhang project, which is being implemented by the Center for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), the event convened policymakers, academics, activists, and civil society leaders to address pressing human rights issues in Pakistan.
The conference underscored the critical role of human rights in fostering peace, inclusion, and social justice. Participants explored topics such as access to education, the rights of vulnerable groups—including women, children, minorities, and persons with disabilities—and the challenges posed by gender-based and conflict-related violence.
Speakers emphasized actionable steps to advance human rights in Pakistan, including raising public awareness, strengthening legislative frameworks and institutions, increasing investment in education, promoting justice for marginalized communities, and enhancing the role of civil society in democratic governance.
Highlighting the urgency of these issues, Sindh Minister for Women Development Shaheena Shair Ali stated, “Human rights are the foundation for a peaceful and tolerant society. Legislative actions must align with international human rights commitments.”
Vice Chancellor SALU, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yousuf Khushk, highlighted the role of education in preventing human rights violations and promoting democratic values. He praised the university’s Youth Assembly for its contributions to raising awareness on human rights and rule of law issues.
Representing HumAhang, Haseeb Iqbal [mention designation] stressed the importance of sustained collaboration, stating, “Collective efforts by all stakeholders are crucial to transforming human rights commitments into concrete action. We must sustain this momentum to ensure lasting peace and inclusion.”
The event concluded with a powerful theatre performance, depicting societal challenges and urging continued advocacy for human rights. Participants called for ongoing policy dialogues, capacity-building workshops, and collaborative initiatives involving academia, civil society, and government entities.
HumAhang, a project of USAID, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships that promote social equity and peace. This conference marks a significant milestone in achieving the program’s objectives of advancing peace, social cohesion, and inclusive development across Pakistan’s most vulnerable regions.
