In Islamabad, UNICEF and the Pakistan Red Crescent brought together about 200 adolescent boys through the Boys for Gender Equality Forum to strengthen their voices as champions and allies for gender equality and child rights. The forum created a platform where young men could discuss local challenges and consider how their actions affect girls and boys across communities in Pakistan.
The initiative focused on practical leadership skills and encouraged participants to challenge harmful gender norms that limit opportunities for children. By centring discussion on respectful behaviour and shared responsibility, the programme promoted positive masculinity as a constructive alternative to outdated stereotypes.
Organisers emphasised the importance of creating inclusive spaces where both girls and boys can learn, lead and shape a more equal future together. Participants practiced communication and advocacy techniques that they can take back to schools, neighbourhoods and peer groups, amplifying child rights messaging within their communities.
By investing in boys as partners in change, the Boys for Gender Equality efforts in Islamabad aim to foster sustainable attitudes and behaviours that support gender equality across Pakistan. Continued engagement helps translate the forum’s lessons into everyday actions that benefit all children.
