WPC, UN Women unveil Pakistan women’s parliamentary leaders’ portal

2026-03-07 - 21:03

On the eve of the International Women’s Day 2026, the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC), with financial support from the European Union (EU) and in partnership with UN Women Pakistan, has unveiled the Pakistan Women’s Parliamentary Leaders (PWL) Portal . Launched in Islamabad under the EU-funded Pakistan Women Leaders (PWL) project, the portal will strengthen coordination between the National and Provincial Assemblies and serve as a centralised digital repository of pro-women legislation and related data, enabling more informed, evidence-based and gender-responsive lawmaking across Pakistan. Chairman of the Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani was the Chief Guest on the occasion. While addressing the launching ceremony of the women’s parliamentary leaders’ portal, Gilani emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional systems that support women’s leadership in politics. “International Women’s Day reminds us that women’s representation is fundamental to the strength of democracy. Strengthening the systems that enable women to enter, remain and lead in politics is critical for Pakistan’s democratic future. The Pakistan Women’s Parliamentary Leaders Portal is a forward-looking step that will institutionalize knowledge, enhance transparency and support evidence-based decision-making across assemblies,” he stated. Earlier, the event commenced with welcome remarks by Dr. Shahida Rehmani, Secretary Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, who underscored the importance of institutionalizing knowledge and collaboration among women legislators. “International Women’s Day reminds us that women’s political participation is essential for inclusive governance. This portal represents more than a digital platform; it is a collective commitment to strengthening women’s leadership across assemblies and ensuring that pro-women laws are informed by evidence, coordination and shared learning,” she stated. In his remarks, Philipp Oliver Gross, Deputy Chief of Mission, the European Union Delegation to Pakistan, reaffirmed the EU’s long- standing commitment to gender equality and democratic governance. “International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder that democracy is strongest when women participate fully in decision-making. The European Union remains a steadfast partner in supporting women’s political leadership in Pakistan, and the Pakistan Women’s Parliamentary Leaders Portal is an important step towards strengthening democratic institutions and inclusive policymaking,” he stated. Delivering opening remarks at the event, Mohamed Yahya, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Pakistan, emphasized the global significance of International Women’s Day in advancing gender equality.