US to launch 40 million-dollar women's rights programme in Pakistan

Islamabad, Aug 31(ANI): The United States is launching a new 40-million dollar 'Gender Equity Grants Programme' in Pakistan to expand women's rights and support the country's policies against gender inequities.

"The US and Pakistan are focused on empowering women and advancing women's rights," The Daily Times quoted Anne W. Patterson, US Ambassador to Pakistan, as saying.

"Women and girls need access to education, full participation in political, economic and civic life, and access to the justice system to ensure the future stability and prosperity of Pakistan," she added.

The Ambassador further said the US will work with the Aurat Foundation, in partnership with the Asia Foundation, to provide 400 to 500 grants to local organizations.

The grants will range in size from 25,000 to 100,000 dollars, and would be used to strengthen the capacity of organisations in Pakistan that advocate for gender equity, women's empowerment and the elimination of gender-based violence.

The programme would also strengthen women's rights organisations through specialised training, leadership development, coalition building, advocacy and public outreach. (ANI)