Punjab Officer Beenish Fatima Wins Prestigious IACP Award

Trailblazing Leadership: SP Beenish Fatima Receives the IACP Under Forty Award

In a remarkable achievement for both her and Pakistan, Punjab Police SP Beenish Fatima has been awarded the prestigious International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) 2024 Under Forty Award in Boston, USA. This accolade recognizes 40 exemplary law enforcement professionals under the age of 40 from around the world who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to their field.

A Proud Moment for Pakistan

Beenish Fatima stands out not only as a talented police officer but also as a trailblazer for women in law enforcement. She is the only Pakistani woman to receive this honor, making her a symbol of pride for the nation on the international stage. Her recognition reflects her dedication to addressing societal inequities and championing the underrepresentation of women in policing roles.

Breaking Barriers

Throughout her career, Beenish Fatima has worked tirelessly to dismantle barriers that hinder women’s participation in the police force. She has implemented critical changes that include:

• Childcare Support for Officers: By facilitating childcare options, she has enabled female officers to balance their professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.
• Female Facilities at Police Headquarters: Recognizing the need for an inclusive work environment, she has advocated for and established female-friendly facilities within police headquarters.
• Policies to Eliminate Gender Barriers: As the first woman to lead the Organized Crime Unit in Punjab Police history, she has drafted and promoted policies aimed at fostering an equitable work environment for women.

Pioneering Initiatives

Beenish Fatima’s impact extends beyond gender equity in the police force. She has initiated several groundbreaking projects, including:

• Tahaffuz Center: She established the first crime reporting center in Punjab specifically designed to serve the transgender community, providing them with a safe space to report crimes and seek help.
• Meesaq Centre: In Islamabad, she set up the first police help desk and reporting center for religious minorities, ensuring that marginalized communities have access to law enforcement support.
• Child Protection Campaign: In collaboration with the Pakistan Child Protection Bureau, she is designing an awareness campaign aimed at supporting child victims of violent crimes, emphasizing the importance of protecting the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.

Leading Traffic Management

Adding to her impressive portfolio, Beenish Fatima has also made history by becoming the first woman Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) of Rawalpindi. This role further exemplifies her commitment to public safety and effective law enforcement.

Conclusion

SP Beenish Fatima’s recent recognition by the IACP is not just a personal achievement; it represents a significant step forward for women in law enforcement in Pakistan and around the world. Her relentless dedication to her work, commitment to gender equity, and innovative initiatives serve as an inspiration to many. As she continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations, her story encourages us all to strive for a more equitable and inclusive society.