Hania Aamir calls for reshaping online behaviour, harmful norms
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UN Women concludes 16 Days of Activism with high-level event on women’s financial, digital inclusion in Karachi
KARACHI (APP) - United Nations Women Pakistan, in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan and partner UN agencies, marked the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence with a high-level event here on the theme “Financial and Digital Inclusion as a Pathway to Safer Economies,” at the State Bank of Pakistan – SBP banking hall here on Thursday.
It emphasised the urgency of strengthening women’s access to safe digital finance and technology-enabled empowerment at a time when digital violence continues to rise across Pakistan.
UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Hania Aamir called for reshaping online behaviour and challenging harmful norms, so women can work, learn and express themselves without fear, adding that empowerment must be matched with safety – both online and offline.
The event brought together senior government representatives, financial and corporate sector leaders, women entrepreneurs, UN officials, civil society partners and youth advocates, reaffirming a shared commitment to expanding inclusive digital and financial ecosystems for women and girls.
Delivering welcome remarks, Christine Arab, UN Women Regional Director, said: “Financial and digital access are fundamental rights.
She said that when we create systems that protect women’s privacy, safety and economic agency, we not only strengthen families, we strengthen economies.
She said that today we reaffirm our collective responsibility to make digital and financial spaces safer, fairer and more equitable for women and girls.”
The day began with a Digital Innovation Showcase featuring women entrepreneurs from Sukkur and Khairpur highlighting how they are using technology to grow their livelihoods, strengthen communities and navigate digital environments more safely.
Speaking on behalf of the financial sector, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan Saleem Ullah emphasised that digital payments and financial services can transform women’s lives only when trust and security are guaranteed.
