Visiting the UNFPA supported safe house for survivors of gender-based violence run by the Association of Women’s Sanctuary and Development (AWSAD), the Regional Director appreciated the comprehensive services being provided at the safe house for making an important contribution to rehabilitate and reintegrate survivors of gender-based violence. She reiterated UNFPA’s commitment to continue to partner with AWSAD to respond to the needs of survivors of GBV.

“UNFPA is committed to continue fighting gender-based violence until we help women and girls live free from violence,” said the Regional Director.

The safe house is providing comprehensive services for GBV survivors consisting of psychological support, shelter, meal, medical services, counselling, basic literacy education, skills development and empowerment sessions such as self-defence training.

Briefing the UNFPA delegation led by the Regional Director, the Executive Director of AWSAD, Ms. Maria Munir, said AWSAD was established more than a decade ago to advance women's social and economic development and to provide support for women and girls that faced physical and psychological violence. The safe house has supported hundreds of women and girls who encountered gender-based violence.

AWSAD is also giving capacity building training to law enforcement bodies and women's affairs offices to enable them provide quality services for women and girl survivors of gender-based violence. It is also targeting community members and local leaders to create supportive environment for women and girls in their community. 

The Regional Director was given a tour of the facilities of the safe house by the Executive Director of AWSAD and she also had the chance to interact with some survivors of GBV who are living and getting services there.