**Happening Now: Launch of the Roadmap for Addressing Domestic Violence in Sindh**
The Sindh Human Rights Commission, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA Pakistan), and Pathfinder International, supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) under the AWAAZ II program, have launched *"A Roadmap for Addressing Domestic Violence in Sindh Through Implementation of the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2013 and Rules 2016."*
This landmark event gathers key stakeholders to strengthen the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, safeguard survivors’ rights, and promote gender equality. The roadmap aligns with this year’s *16 Days of Activism* theme, *“Unite to End Violence Against Women,”* marking 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
### Key Highlights from the Launch:
- **Mr. Muqaddar Shah, Head of UNFPA Pakistan Sindh Sub-Office**, emphasized the need for collective efforts and government involvement in combatting domestic violence. He underscored Sindh's progressive laws but stressed the importance of effective implementation.
- **Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Detho, Chairperson of the Sindh Human Rights Commission**, highlighted the need for stronger implementation and better coordination among stakeholders. He also called for increasing women's participation in the police force to handle domestic violence cases effectively.
- **Barrister Rida Tahir, author of the Roadmap**, provided an insightful presentation on the roadmap’s key components, focusing on the Domestic Violence Act and its enforcement challenges.
- **Madiha Latif, Country Director of Pathfinder International**, acknowledged the crucial role of the Multi-Sectoral Coordination Committee (MSCC) in developing the roadmap, lauding their efforts in passing landmark laws like the Medico-Legal Act 2013.
- **Mr. Khadim Hussain Rind, Additional Inspector General, Sindh Police**, emphasized the need for systemic reforms in the police force and urged a cultural shift in addressing domestic violence, stressing that violence against women must be treated as a non-bailable offense.
- **Ms. Tahseen Fatima, Secretary of the Human Rights Department, Government of Sindh**, called for practical initiatives and stronger inter-departmental coordination to effectively address domestic violence across the province.
This launch event marks a significant step toward a unified approach to combat domestic violence and safeguard human rights in Sindh. The roadmap aims to ensure the effective implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, creating a safer environment for survivors and advancing gender equality in the region.
