By Asim Shahzad
ISLAMABAD – The Foundation for Aging and Inclusive Development (FAID), in collaboration with the Older People Rights Network (OPRN), held its Bi-Annual Advocacy Event titled “Voices for Change: Community-Led Advocacy for Older People’s Rights” at a local hotel.
The event brought together senior citizens, civil society, government officials, and community representatives to highlight the urgent need for inclusive policies and practical measures to safeguard the rights of older people in Pakistan.
Speakers noted that although Pakistan has progressive laws such as the ICT Senior Citizens Act 2021, poor implementation continues to prevent meaningful impact.
Older persons from marginalized groups—including women, persons with disabilities, minorities, and the transgender community—shared their lived experiences, stressing the importance of recognition, respect, and social support.
Panelists and experts underlined that advocacy must remain a joint effort, combining policy-level engagement with grassroots initiatives to change public attitudes and strengthen family and community support systems.
Mr. Rana Tariq Ali, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Human Rights, reaffirmed government commitment through initiatives such as the Senior Citizen Fund, ICT Disability Fund, and the Transgender Protection Center. He, however, emphasized that societal change must go hand in hand with government action.
Speakers further warned that Pakistan must prepare for its shifting demographics, with the elderly population expected to rise dramatically by 2050. They called for urgent reforms in healthcare, pensions, accessibility, and family-based support systems to protect the dignity and well-being of senior citizens.
The event featured voices from diverse backgrounds, including Ms. Saima Qadeer as moderator and host, along with Mr. Sajjad Hussain of FAID, Ms. Maqsooda Solangi of Aurat Foundation, Mr. Tahir Hasnain of Legal Rights Forum, and community advocates such as Mr. Jahangir Mughal, Ms. Sidra Tahseen, Mr. Sarfaraz Khan, Mr. Ibrar Hussain, and Ms. Saba Gull.
The dialogue reaffirmed the urgent need for Pakistan to build inclusive policies and systems for its aging population, ensuring that older persons are valued, respected, and empowered as equal members of society.
The Foundation for Aging and Inclusive Development (FAID), a member of the HelpAge International network, envisions a society where ageing is a dignified, healthy, and secure experience for all. FAID continues to work with stakeholders in the public and private sectors to amplify the voices of older generations and promote an equitable future.
