Link between HRs and mental health emphasised

PESHAWAR: Rehman Medical Institute, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), hosted a seminar to observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocates attended the event to address GBV in the country, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.Dr Naumanul Haq from WHO welcomed the participants and highlighted the global significance of the campaign.

Colonel (R.) Mohammad Tariq Khan, Chief Operating Officer and Chancellor of Rehman Medical Institute, commended WHO’s efforts and acknowledged the contributions of the speakers.

Dr Noreen Akhtar, psychologist and GBV specialist emphasized the link between human rights and mental health in her talk, focusing on the importance of mental health support in GBV services.

Shagufta Malik, former MPA shared insights on legislative reforms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, highlighting the progress made and the need for continued efforts to protect women’s rights.Advocate Mehwish Muhib, from the Peshawar High Court, discussed the importance of strengthening legal frameworks and shared her perspective on the role of the Anti-Rape Act’s Special Committee in advancing protections against GBV.

Former police officer Akhtar Ali Shah also spoke on the occasion. Dr Mohammad Babar Alam, WHO Head of Office for KP, underscored the health sector’s role in responding to GBV and the importance of collaborative efforts to combat the issue.

The seminar concluded with closing remarks from Prof Dr Ghulam Rasool, Principal of Rehman College of Dentistry, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, organizers, and attendees.He emphasised the significance of ongoing dialogue and collective action to eliminate gender-based violence and foster safer, more equitable communities.