LAHORE : The Youth Development Foundation (YDF), with the support of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), organised a two-day training under the Minority Civic Agents Programme (MCAP) titled ‘Strengthening Civic Participation and Governance in Minority Communities.’
The training brought together 35 Minority Civic Agents from 7 Union Councils of Lahore to strengthen their understanding of democratic participation, inclusive governance, and social accountability.
The training focused on enhancing the capacity of minority youth, women, and grassroots community leaders to actively engage with democratic institutions and public service delivery mechanisms. Participants received training on democracy and civic participation, human rights, local government systems, social accountability, Right to Information (RTI), and community scorecards. Sessions were facilitated by representatives from the Human Rights & Minority Affairs Department, LGCD, Nadra, Planning & Development Board, RTI experts, and law enforcement officials.
Addressing the participants, Shahid Rehmat, Executive Director of YDF, stated: ‘Minority communities, especially youth and women, must be empowered to participate meaningfully in governance and democratic processes. Through the Minority Civic Agents Programme, YDF is building grassroots leadership and strengthening collaboration between marginalised communities and public institutions for a more inclusive Punjab.’
MPA Falbous Christopher, Chairman Standing Committee on Human Rights & Minority Affairs Punjab Assembly and Convener of the Parliamentary Minority Caucus Punjab, appreciated the initiative and said: ‘Such capacity-building initiatives are essential for strengthening democracy, inclusion, and responsive governance. Minority Civic Agents can play an important role in bridging the gap between communities and institutions while promoting equal rights and social cohesion.’
MPA Rahila Khadim Hussain, Chief Organiser Minorities Wing Punjab, highlighted the importance of women and youth participation in governance and remarked: ‘Empowering minority women and youth through civic education and leadership development is vital for building an inclusive and progressive society where every citizen has representation and a voice.’
Special guest speaker Rajender Meghwar, ASP Police and representative of the Meesaq Centre, shared insights on community policing, grievance redressal mechanisms, and coordination between citizens and law enforcement institutions.
He emphasised the importance of trust-building and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
Muhammad Yousaf, Director Human Rights & Minority Affairs Punjab, highlighted the Punjab government’s commitment to promoting minority inclusion, social harmony, and equal citizenship. He encouraged participants to become active civic leaders and strengthen engagement with government institutions for peaceful and inclusive development.
Representatives from participating institutions also appreciated the initiative and stressed the importance of interdepartmental collaboration to improve public service delivery and strengthen citizen participation.
Speakers from Nadra, LGCD, Planning & Development Board, and RTI experts encouraged Minority Civic Agents to utilise democratic and legal mechanisms to address community issues, promote accountability, and build constructive engagement with public institutions.
