NCSW Condemning the Exploitation of Women by Militant and Extremist Groups

National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) expresses grave concern over the growing exploitation of women by militant and extremist organisations in conflict-affected regions of Pakistan, particularly Balochistan. The use of women by banned groups for coercion, propaganda, and acts of violence constitutes a serious violation of their human rights, dignity, and fundamental right to life and security.Women can never be tools of conflict. Any attempt to normalise or glorify their exploitation undermines the core principles of gender justice, human rights, and sustainable peace.At the same time, NCSW commends the courage, resilience, and moral strength of the mothers and women of Balochistan who continue to uphold family cohesion, reject violence, and stand for peace despite decades of conflict, marginalisation, and loss. These women represent the true strength and unity of Pakistan.
Since the independence movement, inspired by the leadership of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, women in Pakistan have played a vital role in nation-building and social stability. Today, women in Balochistan and conflict-affected districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continue this legacy by contributing to community resilience and peace-building efforts.It is imperative to recognise that women in conflict zones are overwhelmingly victims not perpetrators of violence. Militant groups exploit structural inequalities, poverty, lack of education, weak protection systems, and prolonged exclusion to manipulate and coerce women.NCSW calls upon Federal and Provincial Governments to adopt urgent, coordinated measures, including:Expanding access to quality education and healthcare, particularly for girls and women in conflict-affected areas;Strengthening psychosocial and trauma-informed support services;Promoting sustainable economic empowerment and livelihood opportunities for women;Implementing community-based prevention initiatives to counter radicalisation; andEnhancing protection mechanisms, safe reporting channels, and survivor-centred responses.NCSW reiterates that women are central to peace, security, and development—as key stakeholders and decision-makers. Investment in women’s empowerment strengthens communities, counters extremism, and builds resilient societies.The courage of Pakistan’s women living under the shadow of conflict remains a powerful force for peace and progress. It is the responsibility of the State and society to protect them from exploitation, amplify their voices, and uphold their rights and dignity.NCSW remains committed to its advocacy, policy engagement, and monitoring role to ensure that violence against women, including their exploitation by extremist groups, is eliminated and that women are supported as agents of peace, resilience, and national unity.