Creative advocacy: Theatrical performance and discussion held to help combat GBV

PESHAWAR: The Institute of Management Sciences (IMS) hosted a theatrical performance and interactive discussions on Monday as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

A communication said the campaign, under the theme #KoiJawaazNahi (#NoExcuse), leverages the transformative power of theatre to spark dialogue and mobilize collective action against gender-based violence (GBV).

The event encouraged participants to reflect on their role in fostering a safer and more equitable society.Attendees shared personal stories, amplifying the campaign’s message of solidarity and hope.

Zainab Qaiser Khan, the head of UN Women Pakistan’s Peshawar Office, reiterated the capaign’s transformative vision.She said: “Through innovative platforms like Rolling Resistance, we aim to foster empathy, challenge harmful norms, and inspire action. Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it is a human rights crisis affecting every facet of society. Globally, one in three women experiences violence in her lifetime. GBV must end, and initiatives like these bring us closer to a society where dignity and safety are fundamental rights for all”.

Professor Attaur Rehman from the Institute of Management Sciences, spoke about the importance of raising awareness about GBV through a medium that resonates with the youth.He said: “Theatre is a compelling medium to challenge societal norms and inspire change. Rolling Resistance is not just a campaign; it is a movement that empowers individuals to confront violence and promote equality.”

Rizwanullah, National Commission for Human Development representative, called for stronger institutional accountability. “This campaign reminds us that there is #KoiJawaazNahi - no excuse - for tolerating violence in any form. It is our shared duty as leaders, educators, and citizens to create a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear and harm,” he added.

Haseena Khan, an assistant commissioner in Peshawar, highlighted the power of creative advocacy. She said: “Justice for survivors and accountability for perpetrators must remain at the forefront of our efforts to combat GBV. Rolling Resistance is a vital initiative that brings the conversation to the community level, encouraging us all to demand systemic change.”

Rolling Resistance is a nationwide campaign that began in Karachi and will conclude in Islamabad, stopping in key cities to amplify its message.

Aligned with Beijing+30 advocacy priorities, the campaign focuses on three critical areas: strengthening accountability through justice for survivors and holding perpetrators responsible; securing sustainable funding to empower women’s rights organizations; and advancing national strategies and action plans to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.