US pledges $40 mn to advance Women's rights in Pakistan

SLAMABAD: The U.S. is launching a new $40 million Gender Equity Grants Program in Pakistan to advance women's human rights and support Government of Pakistan's policies against gender inequities.

The U.S. and Pakistan are focused on empowering women and advancing women's rights an issue of great importance to both our countries, "Ambassador Anne W. Patterson said. Women and girls need access to education, full participation in political, economic and civic life, and access to the justice system to ensure the future stability andprosperity of Pakistan.

The U.S. will work with the Aurat Foundation, in partnership with the Asia Foundation, to provide 400 to 500 grants to local organizations. The grants will range in size from $25,000 to $100,000. The grantees will include non-governmental organizations(NGOs), policy think tanks, academic research and training institutions, professional and business associations, media, as well as relevant government or quasi-government entities that address women's equality and empowerment challenges.

The grants will be used to expand women's access to justice and human rights and strengthen the capacity of organizations in Pakistan that advocate for gender equity, women's empowerment and the elimination of gender-based violence.
read more:http://geo.tv/8-30-2010/70719.htm