Every Voice Counts – Pakistan

Every Voice Counts (EVC) is a programme from CARE Nederland and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for which The Hague Academy provides courses and training. Based on the principle that inclusive governance leads to peace and stability, CARE and its partners actively promote effective and inclusive decision-making processes in the world’s most fragile states. EVC was active in Afghanistan, Burundi, Pakistan, Rwanda, Somalia and Sudan. The project ran from 2016 to 2020.

The Hague Academy for Local Governance built the capacity of Local Authorities (LAs) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on inclusive governance. 

Main goal

In Pakistan, women and girls in two rural districts of the Sindh Province were largely excluded from formal and informal governance structures, despite a favourable legal framework. Women’s marginalisation was reinforced by prevailing cultural practices. The programme aimed to enhance women’s voices in local government and enhance accountability for the implementation of policies.

Objectives

• Empowerment of members of excluded groups on lobby and advocacy;
• Strengthening the advocacy role and capacity of civil society;
• Responsive public authorities and other power holders; and
• Effective spaces for dialogue and negotiation.

Partners