Pakistan’s military has long been a symbol of national pride, and in recent years, Lady Officers have become an integral part of this esteemed institution. Pakistan Army has made considerable progress in enhancing the position of Lady Officers within its military.  Lady Officers bring a unique perspective, skills, and strengths, enriching the military’s capabilities and contributing to the country’s development.

The United Nations Peacekeeping Missions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) is particularly notable as a major achievement for Pakistan’s female officers. Their participation not only showcases Pakistan’s dedication to international peace but also elevates the changing role of women in areas historically dominated by men. In 2019, Pakistan embarked on its inaugural Female Engagement Team (FET) mission to MONUSCO. This team consisted of women from various military branches, including medical, logistic, and support services. Their mission was diverse, encompassing community outreach, medical aid, and fostering communication between the local population and UN peacekeepers.

As a lady officer in the Pakistan Army, I am proud to have served in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo. Our contingent, comprising both male and female officers, worked tirelessly to maintain peace and stability in the region. We bring a unique perspective and approach to conflict resolution, often focusing on community engagement and empowerment. In Congo, we worked closely with local women’s groups, providing training and support to help them rebuild their lives. Our presence also helps to bridge the gender gap in conflict zones, inspiring local women to take on leadership roles and become active participants in the peace process.
Being away from my family is always tough, but I am always up for the challenges. Connecting by phone or video chat whenever possible helps me stay connected to my loved ones. I also remind myself that the work I am a part of is important and that gives me the strength to leave home and pursue bigger things.

Being a woman brings some challenges,   but I am still passionate about my work and the people I want to help. We faced several logistical and security issues but had the support of my colleagues, which made it easier for me to overcome problems. I learned to adapt to the situation on the ground. Staying positive and keeping the goal in mind helped me overcome the difficulties. Also, the training we received equipped me with the skills and knowledge to tackle various problems.
Serving in a conflict zone brought its own set of challenges. The conflict in the Congo, known for its complexity and severity, required Lady Officers to be flexible and strong-willed. Overcoming language barriers, cultural differences, and the volatile security environment were major hurdles. Yet, we swiftly adjusted and our determination and resilience prevailed. We proved that women can excel in even the most challenging environments, and our contributions made a tangible difference.
Pakistan Army Lady Officers within the United Nations Mission highlight their bravery, expertise, and flexibility. Their efforts have left a significant mark on the mission and the communities they worked with. As Pakistan continues to engage in international peacekeeping missions, the role of women will likely grow, further establishing their importance as key contributors to the international peacekeeping community. Their journey serves as a source of inspiration and advancement, showing that with determination and resilience, women can succeed in any field, even in the most difficult situations. The commitment and expertise of Pakistan Army Lady Officers have garnered them respect and appreciation, underscoring the critical role of women in peacekeeping operations and paving the way for future deployments.
The deployment of Pakistan Army Lady Officers to the United Nations Mission is an important milestone in the evolution of women’s roles in international peacekeeping. Their contributions have not only enhanced the effectiveness of the mission but have also served as a ray of hope for women in conflict-affected regions.
Beyond their military expertise, Pakistani Lady Officers bring a unique perspective to peacekeeping operations. Their understanding of cultural nuances and their ability to connect with local communities have proven invaluable in fostering trust and cooperation. By engaging with women’s groups and providing support for their initiatives, they have empowered local women to become active participants in the peace process.
The challenges faced by Lady Officers in the Congo, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and volatile security environments highlight their resilience and adaptability. Their successful navigation of these obstacles has demonstrated that women are capable of excelling in even the most demanding circumstances. Moreover, their presence in conflict zones has served as an inspiration for local women, encouraging them to overcome their own challenges and pursue leadership roles.
As Pakistan continues to play a leading role in international peacekeeping, the role of Lady Officers is likely to expand. Their contributions to the MONUSCO mission have shown that women are not only capable of serving as peacekeepers but are also essential to the success of peacekeeping operations. By investing in the training and development of Lady Officers, Pakistan is not only strengthening its own military but is also making a valuable contribution to the global peace and security agenda.
The deployment of Pakistan Army Lady Officers to the United Nations Missions around the world represents a significant advancement of Pakistan in the field of international peacekeeping. Their contributions have demonstrated the value of women’s leadership in conflict resolution and have inspired countless others. As our country continues to engage in peacekeeping missions, the role of Lady Officers is likely to grow solidifying their place as essential contributors to the global peace and security architecture. HH