In the challenging landscape of Pakistan's civil sector, Amna Baig stands out not just for her role but for her resolve. She is part of a small group, representing only 2% of women in a police force tasked with serving a nation of over 220 million people. Her journey into law enforcement was driven by a clear vision, to prove that effective policing isn't determined by gender.
Amna Baig's tenure as a police officer was marked by significant contributions to operational policing and leadership. She actively worked towards transforming the police service's approach to handling cases involving women. Her commitment to ensuring women could approach the police more comfortably led to enhanced training programs and the introduction of initiatives specifically aimed at supporting victims of gender-based violence.
Path to policy influence
Her work in practical policing provided Amna with the insights she later brought to the Ministry of Law and Justice, where she played a significant role in a panel convened by Maleeka Bukhari, the then-newly appointed Minister of Law and Justice, dedicated to creating more inclusive law-making.
"Most of the time, laws are drafted by the Ministry of Justice without consulting those who enforce them."
As part of this panel, predominantly composed of women including lawyers, media, police officers, and administrative service members, Amna was instrumental in crafting the Anti-Rape Ordinance 2020, focusing on developing investigation rules and standard operating procedures for handling rape cases.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amna identified a critical gap in support for victims of domestic and gender-based violence. Noticing that many women were hesitant to report incidents at traditional police stations due to societal taboos and a predominance of male officers, Amna proposed a specialised solution. She envisioned a Gender Protection Unit—a female-staffed facility in a safe environment with a dedicated helpline that would encourage women to come forward. Amna advocated for this new approach that would make it easier for women to seek help. The Gender Protection Unit was set up as an independent facility, complete with a children’s play area and private, well-lit investigation rooms. Within just six months of its inauguration, the unit received over a thousand reported complaints.
"The solution often lies with you, not your boss. So call your shots."
Amna's leadership in establishing the Gender Protection Unit underscores her philosophy on public service: proactive, courageous, and innovative. She believes in taking the initiative to solve systemic problems: "Sometimes, you have to be more courageous, and other times, you just have to be confident in conveying that this is how it needs to be fixed." This approach reflects her commitment to creating change and empowers others within the system to advocate for and implement solutions that may otherwise be overlooked. "The solution often lies with you, not your boss. So call your shots."
Next steps
Amna chose the MPP programme for its tailored approach to enhancing leadership skills, essential for her future roles in the civil service. The programme offers a unique blend of practical and theoretical knowledge that aligns closely with her professional goals.
"The practical approach of the programme, centred around the case teaching method, contrasts sharply with the more theoretical education typical in Pakistan."
Studying alongside classmates from 68 different countries has reinforced her commitment to global collaboration and the exchange of ideas across borders. Amna explains, "The diversity here underscores that varied perspectives enhance every educational and professional endeavour."
The importance of diversity
Amna believes that for public service delivery to be effective, they must incorporate an international perspective. The insights gained from her diverse experience at Oxford are invaluable and will significantly enhance her capacity to make informed, evidence-based policy decisions. "Everything I've learned here at BSG will be incredibly useful when I return home."
Upon her return to Pakistan, Amna plans to initiate a public awareness campaign aimed at boosting legal literacy among women.
"I'm eager to teach women about their fundamental legal rights, including inheritance, divorce, and custody, and how to effectively navigate the justice system."
The campaign will leverage educational institutions and social media platforms to disseminate information, empowering women to advocate for themselves and secure their economic independence.
Aspire to empower
Amna articulates a simple goal: "I aim to be a good human being." She is committed to continuous learning and making a positive impact on those around her, not only to advance women's rights but also to enhance the well-being of all.
Amna’s journey is an inspiration to women aiming to make an impact in public service and her advice is simple:
"Be confident in what you're asking for. Don't doubt yourself."
She points out the tendency for women, even highly educated and capable ones, to question their own decisions. Urging women to trust in their capabilities, Amna emphasises the importance of support from family and partners in enabling women to fully realise their potential: "Witness the magic they can create when given the chance."
Amna is an Oxford Pakistan Programme and Blavatnik Scholar.