Saba Qamar is once again using her platform to amplify the challenges faced by children across Pakistan. Marking World Children’s Day on Thursday, the actor took to social media wearing blue, a symbolic gesture to draw attention to the country’s ongoing children’s rights issues.
“Every child has a right to learn, to grow up healthy, to live in a safe environment and to have a voice in the decisions that shape their future,” she said. “Let’s come together to make these rights a reality for every child.”
Qamar’s participation in this year’s observance builds on her role as UNICEF Pakistan’s National Ambassador, a position she was first appointed to last year. The announcement coincided with the International Day of the Girl Child, a moment aimed at highlighting girls’ rights and the distinct challenges they face globally.
At the time, Qamar expressed her gratitude for the appointment, stating, “It’s an honor to join UNICEF. I will promote our shared mission of ensuring every child’s rights, wherever I am.” She had also spoken about insights from her recent travels, where she witnessed firsthand the difficulties children and women face across the country, as well as the meaningful effects of UNICEF’s ongoing initiatives. “I am committed to doing my part for the children and youth of Pakistan, enabling them to dream and achieve those dreams,” she added.
Her renewed call comes at a time when children’s issues remain critical in Pakistan. Child marriage is among the most pressing concerns, with the country home to 19 million child brides — the sixth highest figure in the world. More than half of adolescent girls become pregnant before the age of 18, a reality that poses severe health risks for both mother and child. Without urgent, targeted intervention, UNICEF projects that Pakistan may take decades to eliminate child marriage.
In acknowledging Qamar’s advocacy, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan Abdullah Fadil welcomed her involvement, describing her as a courageous and influential advocate for women’s and girl’s rights. Her commitment, he noted, strengthens ongoing efforts to safeguard children’s futures and push for meaningful change.
