Islamabad : UNICEF Pakistan and the Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) signed an agreement to improve children’s rights in Pakistan. This agreement is part of a research project that uses behavioral science to encourage discussions and changes in society about child rights.
Speakers at the event urged the need to protect children’s rights to survival, education, and safety from violence. They said the challenge isn’t the laws but the social attitudes that allow discrimination and violence against children.
The signing ceremony was held at Allama Iqbal Auditorium. Mr. Abdullah A. Fadil, UNICEF’s Country Chief, was the chief guest, and Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, led the event. Other important guests included Justice Muhammad Anwer, Allama Raghib Hussain Naeemi, and representatives from various faith communities.
Rana Mashood praised UNICEF’s work on social issues and said the IRI’s project is key to promoting child rights with the help of religious leaders. He also mentioned plans to include this initiative in the National Youth Policy.
Mr. Fadil stressed the value of research-based approaches to child rights and was pleased to partner with IRI. Allama Naeemi reminded everyone of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings on respecting and educating children, and Syed Muhammed Anwer emphasized Islam’s focus on protecting children. Mr. Christopher, representing Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad, called for interfaith efforts to support children’s rights, especially in digital education.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Director General of IRI, explained the research project’s aim to strengthen child rights in Pakistan. The event was attended by scholars, civil society members, and students, and concluded with thanks and souvenir distribution. Mr. Fadil also toured the Islamic Research Institute.
