Saba Qamar designated UNICEF Pakistan’s first National Ambassador for Child Rights

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has named renowned Pakistani actress Saba Qamar as its first National Ambassador for child rights in Pakistan.

This announcement coincided with the International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to highlighting girls’ rights and the distinct challenges they face globally.

Saba Qamar expressed her gratitude, stating, “It’s an honor to join UNICEF. I will promote our shared mission of ensuring every child’s rights, wherever I am.” She shared her insights from recent travels, noting the challenges children and women encounter in the country, as well as the significant impact of UNICEF’s initiatives. “I am committed to doing my part for the children and youth of Pakistan, enabling them to dream and achieve those dreams,” she added.

As UNICEF Pakistan’s National Ambassador, Qamar will leverage her international platform to raise awareness about children’s rights and various issues affecting young people, including child marriage, mental health, educational access, gender equality, climate change, and the consequences of violence, exploitation, and child poverty.

Child marriage remains one of the most significant barriers preventing girls from realizing their rights in Pakistan, with the country having 19 million child brides, the sixth highest figure worldwide.

Over half of adolescent girls are pregnant before reaching the age of 18, posing life-threatening risks for both mother and child. Without immediate intervention, UNICEF projects that Pakistan will take decades to eliminate child marriage.

A comprehensive societal approach is essential to prevent this harmful practice and safeguard both current and future generations of young girls, who represent a vital but underutilised resource for the nation.

Mr. Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, welcomed Saba Qamar, calling her a courageous and influential advocate for women’s and girls’ rights.

He expressed enthusiasm for working closely with her to address significant challenges facing children in Pakistan today and to enhance efforts to ensure every child can achieve their full potential.