The actor dons blue to draw attention to pressing issues facing children across Pakistan
Saba Qamar Sends Blue Message for Children Across Pakistan
Marking World Children’s Day 2025, celebrated on 20 November, actor Saba Qamar used her platform to raise awareness about children’s rights and challenges in Pakistan. Appearing on social media in blue, Qamar symbolically underscored the importance of safeguarding children’s health, education, and voice in decision-making.
Advocacy and Awareness
Qamar shared a heartfelt message on Instagram:
“Today is all about children’s dreams, their voices & their rights. Let’s help children shine bright & build a future full of hope!”
She highlighted fundamental rights of children, emphasizing:
- Right to education
- Right to health
- Safe and nurturing environments
- Participation in decisions shaping their future
Her message reflects her ongoing role as Unicef Pakistan’s National Ambassador, a position she assumed last year on the International Day of the Girl Child.
Insights from Field Work
During her travels across Pakistan, Qamar witnessed the hardships faced by children and women, including limited access to education, healthcare, and safe spaces. She emphasized:
“I am committed to doing my part for the children and youth of Pakistan, enabling them to dream and achieve those dreams.”
Her advocacy aligns with Unicef’s mission to address persistent gaps in child protection, development, and participation.
Global Significance of World Children’s Day
World Children’s Day commemorates two landmark documents:
- Declaration of the Rights of the Child (1959)
- Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989)
The UN urges governments to prioritize children’s rights, especially in areas like education, climate action, and digital safety. Public landmarks and institutions globally light up in blue to show solidarity with children, while initiatives like ‘kids’ takeovers’ empower children to speak directly to policymakers.
Children’s Rights Challenges in Pakistan
Despite advocacy efforts, children in Pakistan face critical challenges:
- Child marriage: 19 million child brides, the sixth-highest globally
- Early pregnancy: Over half of adolescent girls become pregnant before 18
- Limited access to education and healthcare in rural and urban areas
Unicef warns that without urgent and targeted action, progress on these issues may take decades.
Recognition and Impact
Unicef Representative in Pakistan, Abdullah Fadil, praised Qamar’s dedication, calling her a courageous and influential advocate for children’s and girls’ rights. Her commitment is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts to protect children’s futures and bring lasting change.