The Legal Aid Society (LAS), under the Aawaz II Programme supported by FCDO, held a Provincial Forum on Social Inclusion in Karachi. Themed “From Exclusion to Entitlement,” the event aimed to address the gap between Sindh’s progressive laws for transgender persons and persons with disabilities (PWDs) and their actual enforcement.

District partners presented findings from surveys in Malir, Thatta, Badin, Mirpurkhas, and Umerkot, highlighting five critical issues: barriers in disability certification processes, humiliation when accessing services, lack of shelters for transgender persons, absence of trained police officers, and no representation of these communities in disaster or welfare planning.

Key speakers, including Ms. Abia Akram from STEP and community advocates, emphasized the need for reforms. Dr. Ratana from DEPD discussed the rollout of the Shanakht (Identity) Certificate and the importance of a rights-based approach for PWDs. Mr. Abdul Hakeem from the SWD raised concerns about barriers facing transgender individuals in Karachi’s Community Development Centre.

The Forum concluded with specific asks, including inclusive NADRA SOPs, enforcement of employment quotas, trained police officers, and dedicated shelters, which will be followed up through Aawaz II’s engagement channels and the Multi-Sectoral Coordination Committee.