Pakistani actor Saba Qamar has been appointed as UNICEF Pakistan’s first National Ambassador for child rights. The announcement coincided with International Day of the Girl Child, a significant occasion dedicated to acknowledging the rights of girls and the unique challenges they encounter worldwide.
“It’s an honor to join UNICEF. I will echo our shared mission of achieving every right for every child wherever I am,” Saba Qamar said.
“In my recent travels, I have seen both the challenges children and women face in this country and the difference UNICEF’s dedicated efforts are making. I promise to play my part for the children and young people of Pakistan so that they can dream and have the chance to fulfill their dreams,” she added.
In her new role, Qamar, known for her performances in Kamli and Hindi Medium, will leverage her platform to raise awareness about critical issues affecting children in Pakistan. These include child marriage, mental health challenges, educational barriers, gender equality, climate change, and the impacts of violence and child poverty.
Pakistan has one of the highest rates of child marriage globally, with approximately 19 million child brides. More than half of adolescent girls face pregnancy before turning 18, posing significant health risks. UNICEF warns that without urgent action, it will take decades to eliminate child marriage in the country.
“Miss Qamar is a brave and powerful advocate for women and girls’ rights. We look forward to collaborating closely to draw attention to some of the biggest challenges facing children in Pakistan today and accelerating our efforts to help every child reach their true potential,” said Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.
Qamar’s appointment marks a significant step in UNICEF’s mission to ensure that every child in Pakistan can realize their potential.