Pakistan Highlights Social Solidarity, Inspired by Turkish Model
New York – – Pakistan has emphasized the importance of social solidarity and compassion-based care systems, drawing inspiration from Türkiye’s long-standing care institution, Darülaceze, during discussions at the United Nations. The remarks came during a side event at the 64th session of the UN Commission for Social Development in New York.
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, praised Darülaceze, founded in Istanbul in 1895, as a “lasting example of community-rooted care.” He noted that the institution demonstrates how durable long-term care systems can thrive when state support is combined with charitable giving, volunteer service and strong public participation.
The event, jointly arranged by Türkiye, Pakistan, Qatar, and Azerbaijan, focused on building inclusive long-term care frameworks grounded in social solidarity. The theme highlighted Türkiye’s 130-year legacy of compassion through Darülaceze, exploring practical models for translating empathy into structured social support.
Ambassador Ahmad stated that the philosophy behind Darülaceze resonates with Pakistan’s own ethical and cultural traditions, where caring for vulnerable groups is considered a shared moral duty. He highlighted Pakistan’s Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) as a cornerstone of the country’s social safety net.
The BISP, funded by the federal government, provides targeted financial assistance to millions of low-income households, particularly those headed by women. According to Ambassador Ahmad, the program is vital in reducing hardship, strengthening household incomes, and promoting broader social inclusion. He described it as a deliberate state commitment to protect disadvantaged citizens with dignity and respect for their rights.
Darülaceze: A 130-Year Legacy of Care
Darülaceze, established by Sultan Abdulhamid II in 1895, has evolved into a globally recognized model of social care, reflecting Türkiye’s commitment to supporting the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and orphans. The institution has been serving vulnerable populations for approximately 130 years, caring for over 100,000 elderly and disabled individuals, regardless of religion, language, race, or gender.
Recently, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan visited Darülaceze’s newly opened Alzheimer and Dementia Care Center in Arnavutkoy, Istanbul, reaffirming the institution’s critical role in addressing the needs of an aging population. His visit included engaging with residents and distributing carnations, demonstrating the nation’s respect for its elderly and vulnerable citizens.
Darulaceze President Esra Ceceli İslam emphasized the institution’s groundbreaking approach, stating that aging and loneliness will be major global challenges in the coming years. She noted that Türkiye, through institutions like Darulaceze, continues to uphold its responsibilities as a social state.
The Alzheimer and Dementia Care Center offers individualized care plans implemented by a dedicated team of caregivers, nurses, and physiotherapists, setting new global standards in care. The center represents a continuation of the vision established 130 years ago.
A Historical Foundation of Social Welfare
Darülaceze was initially envisioned as more than just a refuge; it was intended to be a center of learning and support for beggars, orphaned children, and those in need. It provided opportunities to acquire crafts and skills, empowering individuals to shape their own destinies. For the elderly, Darülaceze offered not just residence, but also solace, warmth, and a caring community.
In 2023, under the leadership of President Erdoğan, the Darulaceze Social Life City was established in Arnavutkoy, Istanbul, representing a modern evolution of Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to social responsibility. The foundation for this project was laid in May 2022.
A similar modern foundation, Darülaceze, was opened in Istanbul to rehabilitate the city’s beggars, according to historical records.
