Social inclusion, equal citizenship: AWAM Pakistan organises meeting

FAISALABAD: It is imperative to have an efficient complaint mechanism that responds effectively to public grievances. Union council must introduce digital visitors log record to curb the probabilities of corruption.

It is inevitable to invest on awareness rising about civil registration and complaint procedures. A top-to-bottom approach is needed to remove systemic glitches and reduce bureaucratic barriers, particularly for minorities. These demands were raised during a meeting titled ‘Social Inclusion and the Concept of Equal Citizenship’ being organized by the AWAM Pakistan and presided over by Muhammad Tauseef Additional Director Local Government Faisalabad District.

The session brought together 35 participants, including representatives of civil society organizations, political activists, members of the journalists’ community, and Christian religious leaders. The keynote speakers included Professor Dr. Rizwan Ullah Kokab, Associate Professor Dr. Ghulam Mustafa, Assistant Professor Dr. Bilal Bin Liaqat, Deputy Director AWAM Sonia Patras, Executive Director Sonia Javed, Social Mobilizer Ahmad Ali, and Director Programme Naseem Anthony, who shared their expert insights and perspectives on advancing inclusive governance and strengthening community engagement.

Muhammad Tauseef, Additional Director Local Government Faisalabad, stated, “The secretaries at Union Councils are overburdened with additional responsibilities, which has affected their performance.” He added: Complaints regarding the incapacity of UC secretaries have also been received; however, the system has failed to address these concerns.

Ms. Sonia Javed and Ms. Sonia Patras shared, “civil society actors are contributing to raising awareness at the grassroots level regarding civil registration and have, to some extent, succeeded in mobilizing local communities. However, the behaviour of UC secretaries has discouraged people from pursuing civil registration, often leading them to bypass the system.” They further added, “There must be an efficient complaint mechanism that responds effectively to public grievances.”

The Chairperson, Department of International Relations, GC University Faisalabad, Dr Ghulam Mustafa stated, “the government should invest in both literacy and media to strengthen public awareness.” He further added, “A top-to-bottom approach is needed to remove systemic glitches and reduce bureaucratic barriers, particularly for minorities.” Professor Dr. Rizwan Ullah Kokab from the History Department stated, “The government should focus on effective implementation, as it holds the primary authority to act. Authorities must address public complaints, particularly those raised by underserved communities, including religious minorities, persons with disabilities, and the transgender community.”

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026