In a ceremony held in Islamabad on March 7, 2025, the Pakistan Polio Eradication Program honored its female frontline workers for their dedication, especially in high-risk areas. These women constitute over 58.4% of the polio workforce, playing a crucial role in door-to-door vaccination campaigns despite challenges like misinformation and security risks.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio, reaffirmed the program’s commitment to providing a safe and dignified work environment, highlighting the implementation of an anti-harassment policy. Anwarul Haq, head of the National Emergency Operations Center, praised these workers as the “backbone” of eradication efforts, emphasizing their courage and unwavering commitment to a polio-free Pakistan.
The event also featured video messages from female workers sharing their experiences, underscoring the importance of gender sensitivity in public health to build a more inclusive and resilient society.
