Efforts to strengthen equitable justice systems in Pakistan are gaining momentum, as policymakers and development partners push for more inclusive financial planning. With support from the European Union, UN Women Pakistan recently convened a high-level policy dialogue focused on gender-responsive budgeting in justice sector institutions across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The initiative signals a growing recognition that public finance systems must be both accountable and responsive to the needs of women and marginalized communities.
Why Gender-Responsive Budgeting Matters in the Justice Sector
Gender-responsive budgeting (GRB) is more than a fiscal tool—it is a governance strategy aimed at ensuring fair allocation of resources. In the justice sector, this approach directly impacts women’s access to legal protection, survivor support services, and institutional responsiveness.
During the dialogue, stakeholders examined how provincial budgets influence real-world outcomes. Findings from the Gender Analysis of Provincial Budgets FY 2025–26 revealed a critical disconnect: while overall justice sector spending has increased, targeted investments in services specifically benefiting women remain limited.
Key Insights from Policy Leaders
In his keynote address, Jeroen Willems from the European Union Delegation to Pakistan emphasized that gender-responsive budgeting is essential for effective governance. He highlighted that aligning financial systems with justice reforms ensures institutions become more transparent, equitable, and impactful.
Similarly, Fahmida Iqbal Khan of UN Women pointed out that increased funding alone is not enough. The real challenge lies in translating these investments into tangible improvements in access to justice for women and girls.
Abdul Khaliq Sheikh from the Ministry of Human Rights Pakistan reinforced the importance of accountability, noting that integrating gender perspectives into budgeting processes is vital for inclusive justice delivery.
Addressing Gaps in Justice Sector Financing
Technical experts at the event presented data highlighting persistent gaps in gender-focused spending. While budgets have grown, essential services—such as survivor support systems, reporting mechanisms, and gender-sensitive infrastructure—remain underfunded.
A panel discussion titled “From Fiscal Growth to Gender Outcomes: What Must Change in Upcoming Development Budgets?” explored actionable reforms. Participants from government, civil society, and development organizations identified several priorities:
- Strengthening gender budget tagging within justice portfolios
- Improving financial tracking and data systems
- Enhancing coordination between police, prosecution, and judiciary institutions
- Increasing targeted investments in services for women and vulnerable groups
Collaborative Efforts Driving Reform
The dialogue is part of a broader initiative under the EU-funded programme “Promoting Rule of Law and Enhancing the Criminal Justice System in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Newly Merged Districts and Balochistan.” This approximately $20 million programme is implemented by United Nations Development Programme, UN Women, and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to strengthen the rule of law and expand equitable access to justice.
Turning Budgets into Outcomes
The event concluded with a shared commitment to advancing gender-responsive public finance reforms. Stakeholders agreed that future provincial budgets must go beyond increased allocations and ensure measurable improvements in justice delivery for women and girls.
As Pakistan continues to reform its justice sector, gender-responsive budgeting stands out as a critical lever for change—one that can transform financial inputs into meaningful social outcomes.
