Islamabad; CHARGÉ D’AFFAIRES NATALIE BAKER: On behalf of the U.S. government and the American people, I am deeply honored to join you today for the launch of the Police–Community Together Program. This extraordinary partnership between Pakistan’s civilian security agencies, the U.S. Institute of Peace, and the U.S. Embassy stands as a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose.
Together, we are making history by empowering women in law enforcement and fostering a new era of citizen-focused policing in Pakistan.
Through our collaboration:
· We have increased the representation of women in law enforcement by 20 percent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 25 percent in Balochistan, as Imran and Superintendent Beenish mentioned
· Over 1,600 women and 70 transgender officers in Punjab have been trained in trauma-informed policing. These officers, working through the Police Tahaffuz Markaz, have resolved 1,500 cases for the transgender community—giving them the justice they deserve.
· In KPK, the Public Complaint Redressal System has already addressed over 50,000 complaints across 35 districts, bridging gaps between citizens and the police.
These are not just numbers; they represent lives changed, communities strengthened, and trust rebuilt.
The courage of Pakistan’s women police officers has not only transformed their communities but also earned global recognition. The United States is proud to have supported many women police delegations to international conferences over the last years.
As we observe the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, I’d like to take a moment to highlight some of the ways the United States is investing in the safety of women and girls in Pakistan, in addition to this program. Our commitment to gender equality goes beyond recognition; it’s about action and creating safe spaces for women.
Working with many of you in the audience, we’ve helped establish model police stations with gender desks led by women police officers, ensuring women and minors can safely report crimes. These efforts have led to a 60 percent increase in crimes reported by women and girls in KPK—a transformative step toward justice and safety. We have supported five new Anti-Rape Crisis Cells across Pakistan that provide comprehensive services and support to survivors, including legal services and forensics. We have also partnered with the Asia Foundation and Punjab Prosecution Department to pilot a GBV case tracker that aims to fast track GBV cases and identify bottlenecks in the administration of justice. The program was so successful, we have expanded it to Sindh and KPK.
The United States stands steadfast with Pakistan in building a future where women in law enforcement are not just participants but leaders. That is our shared commitment. Together, we aim to create a civilian security sector that reflects our shared values of equality, justice, and peace.
Now I do want to recognize some of the accomplishments of the women in this room. Earlier this year, Senior Superintendent Riffat Bokhari was honored with the Excellence in Performance Award at the International Association of Women Police Conference in Chicago. Superintendent Beenish Fatima, who we just heard from, made Pakistan proud in Boston by winning the prestigious 40 Under 40 Award at the International Chiefs of Police Conference. These remarkable women are not just breaking barriers—they are redefining what it means to lead with integrity, courage, and empathy.
To all of the women police officers gathered here today, including the head of my own bodyguard team, you are the backbone of all these changes. As Imran said earlier, you are icons to your nations. Every time you put on your uniform, you answer a call not everyone dares to take—it is a call to serve, to protect, and to inspire. Despite the risks, you stand firm.
Your courage moves us, your commitment inspires us, and your sacrifices humble us. On behalf of the United States, we honor your service and pledge to continue supporting women leaders in law enforcement.
In closing, I extend my gratitude to the United States Institute of Peace, civil society, parliamentarians, and the police leaders who continue to support this program. Your efforts are shaping a Pakistan where justice is accessible to all.
And to the champions of women in policing, know this: you are not alone. The United States stands shoulder-to-shoulder with you in advancing peace, security, and justice for every Pakistani citizen.
