Monitoring Implementation of Disability Rights Legal Framework
The Association of Women for Awareness and Motivation (AWAM) implemented a groundbreaking project titled “Monitoring Implementation of Disability Rights Legal Framework”
To advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Pakistan. This 12-month initiative, carried out in Islamabad, Lahore, and several districts of Punjab, focused on monitoring the enforcement of disability-related laws, advocating for policy reforms, and increasing public awareness to foster inclusion and accessibility for the disability community.
Through this project, AWAM empowered a wide range of stakeholders—including disability rights advocates, civil society organizations, legal experts, and media professionals—by building their capacity to champion disability rights. A major success was the formation and activation of Disability Rights Advocacy Groups (DRAG) at the district level, which played a pivotal role in engaging policymakers, organizing community-level initiatives, and lobbying for systemic reforms. These advocacy groups not only elevated grassroots voices but also helped influence national dialogue on disability legislation and policy.
One of the most significant achievements was the development of a comprehensive draft of the Punjab Disability Act, ready to be submitted for legislative approval. Simultaneously, AWAM took the bold step of initiating litigation on key disability rights issues, including the enforcement of the 2% job quota and simplification of the disability registration process. These legal efforts aimed to ensure equal opportunities and justice for persons with disabilities, reinforcing the government’s responsibility to uphold its constitutional and international commitments under the CRPD (Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities).
The project also engaged in international advocacy by drafting and submitting communications to the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, spotlighting violations and calling for action from global human rights mechanisms. On the domestic front, consultative meetings were held to review and improve the implementation mechanisms of the CRPD, bringing together government departments, civil society, and people with disabilities in a collaborative effort.
Additionally, the project led a successful media campaign, featuring radio talk shows, public service messages, and media briefings that challenged social stigma and promoted the visibility and integration of PWDs. Customized IEC materials were developed and distributed to amplify the campaign’s reach and serve as tools for long-term awareness and education.
AWAM’s project not only amplified the voices of persons with disabilities but also laid a foundation for legislative change, institutional accountability, and public consciousness. With increased coordination among stakeholders, empowered disability rights advocates, and strategic legal action, the project marked a transformative step towards a more inclusive and equitable society in Pakistan.
The project concluded with notable successes: twelve legal cases of violence against women were handled, six of which have been resolved.
Women’s visibility and voice have been amplified through seminars,regional dialogues, media campaigns, and active collaboration with stakeholders including the judiciary, bar associations, and civil society.
AWAM’s efforts have not only built legal capacity but also sparked collective action—creating pathways for sustainable empowerment and justice for women in Faisalabad and beyond.
Contact
- Address: P-98/15, Street 1, Block-B, Al-Fayyaz Colony, Satyyana Road, Faisalabad-Pakistan (38000)
- Email: [email protected]
- Tel/Fax: +92-41-8554335
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