Establishing a parliamentary caucus to provide oversight to tuberculosis control in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The National TB Control Program and its partners advocated for a caucus of parliamentarians to galvanize political support for tuberculosis control. The process urged political representatives from all parties to join the call to action for a TB-free Pakistan by supporting timely decisions and adequate resource allocation for TB prevention and cure. Methods: National TB Control Program Pakistan and Stop TB Partnership ensured an effective advocacy stream of activities leading to formulating a parliamentary caucus. The forum has held several meetings to support political decisions for TB control and cure in the country. Results: A total of 13 Parliamentarians initially agreed to be a caucus member, attended its launch and two follow-up meetings, and supported decisions. The parliamentarians signed a declaration to address the barriers in providing TB diagnostic and treatment care across the country, irrespective of any discrimination.