16/07/2026
Video Highlights | Pakistan's First-Ever National Summit of Women with Disabilities by
The National Summit brought together women leaders with disabilities from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, and Islamabad, alongside government officials from across Pakistan, for two days of dialogue on the status of women and girls with disabilities and practical solutions to advance their rights and inclusion in Islamabad. The Summit concluded with the adoption of a comprehensive National presented by Ms. Abia Akram and Ms. Zahida Hameed, calling for stronger inclusion, equal opportunities, accessible public services, meaningful participation in decision-making, and the full realization of their rights.
Throughout its six-year journey, the Programme supported by UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( ) championed the leadership, inclusion, and rights of women with disabilities by creating safe spaces, amplifying their voices, and promoting their meaningful participation in decision-making. Through Special Interest Groups (SIGs), policy advocacy, and national engagement, the programme empowered women with disabilities to shape solutions, influence policies, and advance disability-inclusive development across Pakistan.
"Women with disabilities face double discrimination—both as women and as persons with disabilities. The Aawaz II Special Interest Groups (SIGs) of Women with Disabilities in 15 districts of KP and Punjab provided safe spaces for women to discuss their challenges. The work of these SIGs has shown that when women with disabilities are given platforms, they not only identify their issues but also develop solutions." — Mr. Sam Waldock, Development Director, in Pakistan
"Social development is only possible through the inclusion of vulnerable groups. UNFPA is committed to promoting the rights of women and girls with disabilities." — Ms. Gulnara Kadyrovkulova, Deputy Representative,
"At the heart of the Charter is one powerful principle: 'Nothing About Us, Without Us.' Women with disabilities must not simply benefit from policies and programmes; they must help design them, shape them, and hold institutions accountable for delivering them." — Mr. James Hampson, Country Director, in Pakistan
The National Summit of Women with Disabilities: Inclusion, Voice and Leadership was jointly organized by , National Forum of Women with Disabilities ( ), , and , with support from .
Together, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the voices of women with disabilities are not only heard but also translated into concrete policies, meaningful action, and lasting change.
British Council Pakistan, UK in Pakistan, British Council Pakistan, UNFPA Pakistan, Peace & Justice Network - PJN