UNICEF has announced the appointment of renowned actor Saba Qamar as its first National Ambassador for Child Rights in Pakistan. The announcement was made on International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to championing girls’ rights and recognizing the unique challenges they face worldwide.
“It’s an honor to join UNICEF. I will echo our shared mission of achieving every right for every child wherever I am,” said Saba Qamar in a press release. “In my recent travels, I have seen both the challenges children and women face in this country and the difference UNICEF’s dedicated efforts are making. I promise to play my part for the children and young people of Pakistan so that they can dream and have the chance to fulfill their dreams.”
Saba Qamar
Saba Qamar’s Onscreen Advocacy for Women’s Rights
Saba Qamar has consistently taken on empowering roles onscreen, advocating for women’s rights through the characters she has portrayed over the years. Some of her most memorable roles include:
- Raina in Sar-e-Rah: Portrayed a strong and independent woman, tackling societal issues and advocating for gender equality.
- Hina in Kamli: A character that navigates complex emotional landscapes, highlighting the resilience and strength of women.
- Meeta in Hindi Medium: A strong, ambitious woman navigating the challenges of the education system to secure a better future for her child.
- Mannat in Cheekh: A woman fighting for justice after witnessing a friend’s murder, highlighting themes of courage and resilience.
- Kanwal Baloch in Baaghi: A character inspired by the life of social media star Qandeel Baloch, showcasing the struggles and societal pressures faced by women in Pakistan.
“I promise to play my part for the children & young people of Pakistan so that they can dream and have the chance to fulfil their dreams.” –
Saba Qamar On Her New Role As Pakistan’s First Child Rights Ambassador For UNICEF.
In her new role, Qamar will leverage her platform to raise awareness of children’s rights and issues affecting young people, including child marriage, mental health, lack of education, gender equality, climate change, and the impact of violence, exploitation, and child poverty. The Kamli and Hindi Medium star aim to use her influence to advocate for the rights of children and young people in Pakistan and beyond.
Child Marriage in Pakistan
Child marriage remains a significant barrier to girls realizing their rights in Pakistan. The country is home to 19 million child brides, the sixth highest globally. More than half of adolescent girls are pregnant before their 18th birthday, posing life-threatening risks for both the mother and the child. Without urgent action, UNICEF estimates that Pakistan will not eliminate child marriage for decades. A comprehensive societal approach is needed to prevent this harmful practice and safeguard both current and future generations of young girls.
“I am delighted to welcome Saba to UNICEF. Ms. Qamar is a brave and powerful advocate for women’s and girls’ rights, we look forward to collaborating closely with her to draw attention to some of the biggest challenges facing children in Pakistan today and accelerating our efforts to help every child reach their true potential.”
UNICEF Representative in Pakistan Abdullah Fadil.
A whole-of-society approach is essential to address the issue of child marriage and protect young girls, one of the country’s greatest untapped resources. Saba Qamar’s appointment as UNICEF’s National Ambassador for Child Rights is a step towards mobilizing support and action against child marriage and other pressing issues.
Saba Qamar’s Engagement with Young Girls
On Thursday, Qamar shared pictures from her travels, showing her engaging with girls in an undisclosed locality. In the caption, she wrote, “Met some super amazing people this week and had some wonderful experiences. Tons of stories to share! More soon!”
Saba Qamar’s appointment as UNICEF’s National Ambassador for Child Rights in Pakistan marks a significant step towards advocating for and protecting the rights of children and young people in the country. Her commitment and dedication to raising awareness about critical issues affecting children will play a crucial role in driving positive change and ensuring that every child in Pakistan has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Sources: Tribune, Unicef, Dawn
