06/08/2023
Legal Aid and Justice Authority (LAJA), in collaboration with UNDP organized Two Day Consultative Workshop on "Legal Aid and Justice Authority of Pakistan-Institutional Linkages and Strategic Planning" on 2nd and 3rd August, 2023 at Islamabad Serena Hotel.
The primary goal of the two days national consultative workshop was to develop a Five-Year Strategic Plan for LAJA.
Dr. Syed Mohammed Anwar, Justice Federal Shariat Court, at the closing ceremony of the workshop stated that, Legal Aid and Access to Justice can play an effective role in fostering unity and promoting equality among all Pakistanis.
Ms. Mehnaz offered her support in resolving LAJA issues that are pending with the Ministry of Finance and other departments.
Mr. Shafique Chaudhry, Executive Director of the Parliamentarians Commission on Human Rights (PCHR), presented a 5-year strategic plan for LAJA based on the recommendations of the participants. This strategic plan will assist LAJA and its partners in improving coordination and streamlining their human, technical, and financial resources.
Mr. Amir Zulfiqar, Inspector General of Police, and Kamila, Ciatlin Chittenden of UNDP and Ms. Kamilla, also spoke at the event. Mr. Amir Zulfiqar, emphasised the disparity between those who can afford expensive solicitors when accused with FIRs and those who cannot. He said that vulnerable women, transgender people, children, and all disadvantaged members of society should be made part of such discussions. UNDP Pakistan's representatives thanked government officials, stakeholders, and all supporting teams, including UN Women and UNODC for their support for making workshop a success.
Senior officials from various government departments attended the workshop and helped identify challenges, opportunities, and strategic interventions to help LAJA improve access to justice for all, particularly women, children, and marginalised groups; raise awareness about laws, rights, and available legal aid/legal support mechanisms in Pakistan; strengthen pro bono legal support; and reinforce coordination and collaboration.