Awam Pakistan

ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN FOR AWARENESS AND MOTIVATION

Citizens for Good Governance: Strengthening Citizens Engagement for Inclusive and Accountable Local Governance. – Awam Pakistan

Citizens for Good Governance: Strengthening Citizens Engagement for Inclusive and Accountable Local Governance.

AWAM Pakistan is deeply committed to empowering community groups by enhancing their engagement with local governance structures. With the support of the Centre for Peace and Development Initiative (CPDI) Islamabad,

AWAM launched a campaign in Tehsil Bhawana, District Chiniot, targeting peasant workers, women home-based workers, out-of-school youth, and persons with disabilities. This initiative’s core purpose is to strengthen and unite.

grassroots voices to address discrimination against marginalized groups, including women, minorities, and persons with disabilities, and to mobilize local groups to advocate for effective local service delivery.   

The campaign’s objectives are focused on educating local communities about their constitutional rights, particularly articles 19-A (Right to Information), 25 (Equality of Citizenship), 32 (Promotion of Local Governments), and 36 (Protection of Religious Minorities), as well as the services and facilities offered by local institutions. AWAM emphasizes the importance of the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act (PT&RTI), urging communities to engage with authorities and political decision-makers to demand transparent systems and hold public representatives accountable.   

AWAM’s approach involves a series of training workshops, consultation meetings with stakeholders, interactive sessions with youth, and community meetings. These activities are designed not only to inform participants about their rights but also to empower them to stand up for these rights and speak out against injustices. By fostering a sense of empowerment and unity, AWAM is helping communities to collectively demand better access to reserved facilities and dedicated services, ensuring that marginalized groups are not left behind.    

 

The success of this campaign lies in its ability to bridge the gap between local governance and marginalized communities. By providing education on constitutional rights and mechanisms for accountability, AWAM is empowering citizens to actively participate in local governance and demand transparency. The focus on various marginalized groups ensures that the campaign addresses the diverse needs of the community, promoting inclusivity and social justice. AWAM’s efforts are crucial in fostering a more equitable and accountable local governance system in Pakistan.