Mahnoor Omer, a prominent Pakistani activist dedicated to women’s rights, has been named one of TIME magazine’s Women of the Year for 2026. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights her relentless efforts to confront and dismantle gender inequality in Pakistan, particularly through her groundbreaking legal battle against the taxation of menstrual products. Omer’s inclusion in this distinguished group places her alongside 16 other influential figures worldwide, including Oscar-nominated filmmaker Chloe Zhao and Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, underscoring the global significance of her work.
Omer’s journey into activism began at a young age, shaped by her early awareness of the systemic gender disparities prevalent in her society. At just 14 years old, disillusioned by the ineffective methods employed by a major NGO in educating girls about sexual violence, she took the initiative to establish the Noor Foundation. This organization became her platform to directly engage with communities, particularly in rural areas, where she conducted workshops addressing a wide array of critical issues such as climate change and menstrual health. Her proactive approach demonstrated a deep commitment to empowering women and girls through education and awareness.
Her activism took a more focused turn when, two years later, a conversation with a domestic worker revealed a harsh reality: the high cost of sanitary products was a significant barrier for many women in Pakistan. The country imposes taxes on menstrual hygiene items like pads and tampons that can increase their retail price by up to 40 percent, making these essential products unaffordable for a large segment of the female population. UNICEF estimates that only around 12 percent of women in Pakistan use commercially manufactured sanitary products, with many resorting to unsafe alternatives such as cloth, which pose serious health risks and often lead to school absenteeism among girls during their menstrual cycles.
Determined to address this pressing issue, Omer combined her passion for activism with her legal knowledge to challenge the so-called “period tax.” In September 2025, she filed a petition in court, marking a significant step toward policy reform in menstrual health. The case’s initial hearing at the end of 2025 sparked widespread public discourse on a topic traditionally shrouded in silence and stigma in Pakistan. This legal challenge has not only brought national attention to menstrual equity but also emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to ensure accessible and affordable menstrual hygiene products for all women.
Currently pursuing a master’s degree in gender, peace, and security at the London School of Economics, the 25-year-old activist views this legal battle as just the beginning of a much longer journey toward equality. She has expressed a profound sense of solidarity with women and gender minorities across Pakistan, famously stating, “I’m not free until every woman is free.” Her words reflect a deep-rooted commitment to fostering an inclusive society where gender-based barriers are dismantled.
Upon receiving the TIME recognition, Omer took to social media to express her gratitude and renewed dedication to her cause. She conveyed hope that her achievement would serve as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the boundless potential of Pakistani women. While acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead, she emphasized that moments like these highlight the progress made and fuel the determination to continue striving for gender justice throughout the country.
