The Social Welfare Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has established the first Gender Facilitation Desk in Khyber district.
Aimed at curbing domestic violence and ensuring easier access to legal guidance, education, vocational training, and shelter, the initiative marks a significant step toward supporting vulnerable groups including women, persons with disabilities, and transgender individuals.
The official launch ceremony was held at a private hotel in Peshawar, attended by representatives from various districts.
Speaking to TNN, Khula Ismail, the desk officer for Khyber, emphasized that women in tribal areas often remain unaware of their rights and available support systems. The new desk will not only connect them with relevant departments but also provide essential follow-up services.
“This facility will support women who face exclusion—whether it’s due to denial of inheritance, domestic violence, or lack of access to education and healthcare,” she explained, adding that the desk will operate three days a week in Jamrud and the remaining three days in Landi Kotal and Bara to maximize outreach.
Highlighting the urgency of such initiatives, Peshawar High Court lawyer Mahwish Mohib Kakakhel noted the alarming rise in cases of violence against women and transgender persons in the merged districts, including honor killings and murders triggered by viral content on social media. She stressed that the desk would also ensure timely legal assistance to the transgender community.
“Due to cultural restrictions, many tribal women hesitate to leave their homes. These desks will also be set up at government centers women already visit, making it easier to officially register their complaints,” she added.
Sub-Inspector Mughees Munir stated that 32 gender desks are already operational across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, staffed by 96 trained female officers. She praised the resilience of women from Kurram, Khyber, Bajaur, and Mohmand, expressing hope that the new desk would effectively address their issues.
Officials believe the initiative will not only offer swift solutions to gender-based problems but also promote legal awareness and gender equality within the tribal society.
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