**UN Women Conducts Gender Sensitization Training for Balochistan Police Under EU-Backed Project**
In an effort to strengthen gender-responsive policing in Balochistan, UN Women, with support from the European Union in Pakistan, conducted a series of introductory training sessions for police officials at the Police Training College in Quetta. The initiative, part of the EU-funded Access to Justice Project, aimed to enhance the capacity of law enforcement to address gender-related issues more effectively and promote inclusive policing practices.
A total of 89 police officials participated in the training, including 39 male officers and 50 female officers. The sessions focused on building a foundational understanding of gender concepts and terminology among participants. Police officials were introduced to pro-women legislation and policy frameworks relevant to Balochistan, equipping them with knowledge to better serve the needs of women in their communities.
The training also covered Pakistan’s international commitments, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Platform for Action, underlining the importance of aligning local policing practices with global standards on gender equality.
A key component of the program was an orientation on the Anti-Rape Act 2021, emphasizing its implementation and significance in strengthening protections for survivors of sexual violence. Additionally, participants received an overview of the Essential Services Package to further enhance their understanding of critical services for women and vulnerable groups.
This collaborative effort between UN Women and the European Union seeks to empower Balochistan’s law enforcement agencies, fostering a more just, inclusive, and gender-sensitive approach to policing in the province.
