In the heart of Pakha Ghulam, a community on the outskirts of Peshawar, Moulana Shahzeb has long been a respected figure. As an Islamic scholar and the local Masjid Imam, his words have shaped the thoughts of many. For years, his sermons echoed the teachings of faith, justice, and social responsibilities. But one conversation added another topic to his sermons.
One evening, he met members of the Community Based Protection Committee Pakha Ghulam, a safe space supported by UNFPA and the Australian Government and implemented by the Sarhad Rural Support Programme (SRSP). As he listened, he learned about the work being done to uplift the women of his own community, offering them psychosocial support, skill-building training, and resources to help them stand on their own feet. At first, he was skeptical. Like many, he had heard misconceptions about such programmes. But the more he understood, the more he reflected. He understood the need for such initiatives for women and girls who face violence.
"Isn’t Islam founded on justice, kindness, and dignity for all, especially women? I recall the teaching of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that the best among mankind is the one who benefits humanity. The work of UNFPA greatly contributes to the well-being of young girls, women, and society as a whole. I stand with this Women and Girls Friendly Space and all the work they are doing in full support of Pakha Ghulam.
For two years now, Moulana Shahzeb has been using his powerful platform to spread a new message: support for women’s empowerment, and the fight against gender-based violence. His Friday sermons now speak of the dangers, especially health consequences of early marriage, the importance of educating girls, and the need for a society where women can thrive.
He doesn’t stop at the pulpit. In the markets, at community gatherings, and during household visits, he speaks directly to men, urging them to stand by their daughters, sisters, and wives-not just as protectors but as partners in progress. He reminds them that Islam grants women rights-rights that must be respected and upheld.
In today's world, where advocacy and awareness on these critical issues is there, it is disheartening to see that some families still adhere to outdated practices in the treatment of women. Personally, I fear Allah when it comes to upholding the rights of my wife and daughter. That is why I actively advocate for the elimination of violence against women, the harmful consequences of early child marriage, and the importance of prioritizing women's health. A home can truly be a place of peace and harmony when women are treated with dignity, respect, and care, I believe.
Moulana Shahzeb knows change won’t come overnight. But he believes in the power of dialogue, of challenging outdated traditions, and of working together. He calls upon fellow religious leaders to play their part, to advocate for women’s rights from the very platforms that influence communities the most. And he supports organizations like UNFPA in their efforts, believing that faith and social progress can go hand in hand.
Today, his efforts are bearing fruit. The women of Pakha Ghulam are finding their voices, learning skills, and accessing the support they need. Families are beginning to see the value of empowered women. And a new conversation is taking root- one where faith and equality walk together, paving the way for a brighter, more just future.
UNFPA has established Women and Girls Friendly Spaces (WGFS) across Pakistan to provide a safe environment for women and girls. These spaces offer essential psychological support, counseling, and referral services to help survivors of gender-based violence rebuild their lives. Additionally, they provide skill-building opportunities, enabling women to become economically self-reliant and contribute to Pakistan's economic growth. Through these initiatives, UNFPA is fostering resilience and empowerment, ensuring that women and girls have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
