The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Provincial Headquarters, in collaboration with its District Branches in Dera Ismail Khan (D.I. Khan) and Tank, successfully organized a Protection, Gender, and Inclusion (PGI) Stakeholders Meeting in D.I. Khan. The meeting marked an important milestone in strengthening coordination and collaboration among key stakeholders working to address protection and inclusion challenges across the two districts.
The session brought together a diverse and influential group of participants, including representatives from government departments, academic institutions, and humanitarian organizations. Government representation included the Office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Tank, Health Department Tank, Police Department D.I. Khan, Social Welfare Department D.I. Khan, and the Education Department Tank. Their participation highlighted the importance of institutional ownership and inter-departmental coordination in advancing inclusive and rights-based approaches.
Academic and specialized institutions also played a vital role in the discussion. Representatives from Gomal University’s Psychology Department and the Department of Solace Autism and Rehabilitation shared insights on mental health, psychosocial support, and the needs of persons with disabilities—key components of effective PGI programming.
The meeting further benefited from the active engagement of leading humanitarian and development organizations, including SAHARA, SHARP, Sarhad Rural Support Programme (SRSP), Veer Development Foundation, Sabawon, Aghosh AlKhidmat Foundation, and WWF Pakistan. These organizations shared experiences, best practices, and ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and promoting social inclusion.
Through open dialogue and collaborative planning, participants emphasized the need for a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to address protection risks, gender disparities, and barriers to inclusion. The meeting reinforced a shared commitment to ensuring dignity, access, safety, and meaningful participation for all, particularly women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
This PGI stakeholders meeting represents a significant step toward unified action in the D.I. Khan and Tank region. PRCS reaffirmed its dedication to working closely with government, academia, and civil society to build stronger, more inclusive communities—ensuring that no one is left behind.
