UN Women Pakistan highlighted a standout exchange at the 2025 Regional Forum in Nepal, where leaders from across South Asia discussed how regional cooperation and innovative policy solutions can advance gender equality, protect child rights, and promote inclusive development.
The Forum brought together policymakers, development partners, and civil society representatives to examine cross-border challenges and opportunities for inclusive progress across the region. UN Women Pakistan flagged a particular conversation as illustrative of the Forum’s collaborative spirit.
That conversation featured Dr. Sharmila Faruqi, Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan, and Dr. Sharmeela Rassool, UNICEF Deputy Representative. Their dialogue focused on how stronger regional cooperation and forward-looking policies can accelerate gains for women and children and make development more inclusive.
Speakers emphasized the need for coordinated approaches that bridge national efforts, share best practices, and prioritize both gender equality and child rights as central to sustainable development. The exchange underscored a shared commitment to ensuring no one is left behind as countries pursue social and economic progress.
UN Women Pakistan’s recap of the Forum reinforced the message that collective action across South Asia is essential to build more equitable and resilient societies.
