ISLAMABAD: The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) has welcomed the introduction of the Christian Family Laws Bill in the Sindh Assembly, describing it as an important step towards strengthening legal protection, access to justice and safeguards for Christian women, girls and children.
In a statement, the Commission acknowledged the role of Sindh Assembly Deputy Speaker Anthony Naveed and other parliamentarians contributing to the legislative process and expressed support for continued efforts towards developing a comprehensive, rights-based framework governing Christian family matters.
NCSW said that for the past three years, it has been working in collaboration with partner organisations across Pakistan to pursue reforms in Christian family laws. During this period, the Commission has engaged with parliamentarians, relevant institutions, legal experts, civil society, faith representatives and members of the Christian community to identify legal gaps and promote reforms aimed at protecting families, particularly women and girls.
The Commission said existing Christian family laws require continued review to address issues including cruelty, gender-based violence, abandonment, marriage, divorce, maintenance, custody and guardianship, while keeping the dignity, rights and best interests of women and children at the centre of the legal framework.
NCSW termed the Sindh initiative an opportunity to advance an equitable and effective legal framework and encouraged similar constructive legislative engagement in other provinces.
The Commission reiterated that its mandate covers every woman and girl in Pakistan without distinction on the basis of religion, community, ethnicity, province or place of origin.
It said it would continue working with relevant stakeholders and communities to promote laws and policies that uphold equality, dignity and justice and provide protection against discrimination and violence.
NCSW reaffirmed its commitment to supporting inclusive, evidence-based and consultative legislative reforms aimed at safeguarding the rights and interests of women, girls and families across Pakistan.
