ISLAMABAD — Abid Lashari, President and CEO of the National Disability & Development Forum (NDF) Pakistan, has been appointed as a member of the Advisory Committee on Child Rights (ACCR) under the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC), Government of Pakistan. This appointment recognizes Lashari’s contributions to disability rights and child welfare in Pakistan.
What Happened
Abid Lashari, a recipient of the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s prestigious civilian awards, has been selected to join the ACCR. The committee operates under the NCRC, which is tasked with promoting and protecting the rights of children across Pakistan. Lashari’s appointment is seen as a significant step in enhancing the representation of disability rights within the framework of child rights advocacy.
The NDF, under Lashari’s leadership, has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and development of persons with disabilities. His new role in the ACCR is expected to bring a focused perspective on the intersection of disability and child rights. The committee is responsible for advising the NCRC on policy matters, legislative changes, and other initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of children in Pakistan.
In a statement, Lashari expressed his commitment to advancing the rights of children, particularly those with disabilities. “I am honored to be part of this committee and look forward to contributing towards a more inclusive society where every child’s rights are upheld,” he stated.
Background
The National Commission on the Rights of Child was established under the NCRC Act 2017 to ensure the protection and promotion of children’s rights in Pakistan. It serves as a national watchdog, monitoring the implementation of child rights and advising the government on related issues. The ACCR is a vital component of the NCRC, providing expert guidance on various child rights matters.
Abid Lashari’s involvement in disability advocacy spans over two decades. His leadership at the NDF has led to significant strides in policy advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community-based initiatives aimed at empowering persons with disabilities. The NDF has been a key player in promoting inclusive education, accessible healthcare, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Why It Matters
Lashari’s appointment to the ACCR is a crucial development in the broader context of child rights advocacy in Pakistan. Children with disabilities often face multiple layers of discrimination and barriers to accessing their rights. By bringing Lashari’s expertise into the ACCR, there is potential for more inclusive policy recommendations and initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by these children.
The inclusion of disability perspectives in child rights discussions is essential for creating comprehensive policies that cater to all children’s needs. This appointment could lead to enhanced focus on inclusive education systems, improved healthcare services, and better protection mechanisms for children with disabilities.
Furthermore, Lashari’s role could influence the NCRC’s approach to monitoring and reporting on child rights issues, ensuring that the voices of children with disabilities are heard and considered in national policy-making processes.
On an international level, this development aligns with Pakistan’s commitments to global conventions such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). It underscores the country’s efforts to integrate disability rights within the broader framework of child rights.
Key Takeaways
- Abid Lashari has been appointed to the Advisory Committee on Child Rights under the NCRC.
- Lashari’s role is expected to enhance the representation of disability rights in child welfare policies.
- The NCRC aims to protect and promote children’s rights across Pakistan.
- This appointment could lead to more inclusive policies for children with disabilities.
- The development aligns with Pakistan’s international commitments to child and disability rights.
Source Attribution
This article is based on official government statements, press releases, and public communications from relevant authorities.
