Mahnoor Omer, a prominent Pakistani women’s rights advocate known for her legal battle against taxes on menstrual products, has been recognized as one of TIME magazine’s Women of the Year for 2026. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights her relentless efforts to confront and dismantle gender-based inequalities in Pakistan, a country where such issues remain deeply entrenched. Omer’s inclusion in this distinguished list 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 as an activist began at a remarkably young age. As a teenager, she became acutely aware of the pervasive gender disparities around her. At just 14 years old, disillusioned by the ineffective methods used by a major non-governmental organization to educate girls about sexual violence, she took the initiative to establish the Noor Foundation. This organization was created to provide more impactful education and support for girls, particularly in rural areas where access to such resources is limited. Through the foundation, Omer began organizing workshops that addressed a wide range of issues, from the environmental impacts of climate change to the deeply stigmatized topic of menstruation.
Her activism took a more focused turn two years later when a conversation with a domestic worker brought to light a harsh reality: many women in Pakistan cannot afford basic menstrual hygiene products due to exorbitant taxes. In Pakistan, taxes on sanitary pads and tampons can increase their retail price by as much as 40 percent, creating a significant barrier for countless women and girls. UNICEF estimates that only about 12 percent of women in the country use commercially manufactured sanitary products, with the majority relying on unsafe alternatives like cloth. These substitutes not only pose serious health risks but also contribute to absenteeism among schoolgirls during their menstrual cycles, perpetuating cycles of educational disadvantage.
Combining her passion for activism with her growing legal knowledge, the 25-year-old Omer took a bold step in September 2025 by filing a legal challenge against the so-called “period tax.” The case, which had its initial hearing at the end of that year, sparked widespread national conversation about a subject often considered taboo in Pakistani society. This legal battle has brought critical attention to the urgent need for comprehensive menstrual health policies and reforms that ensure equitable access to hygiene products for all women and girls.
Currently pursuing a master’s degree in gender, peace, and security at the London School of Economics, Omer views this legal case as just the beginning of a much longer struggle for gender justice. She has been quoted saying, “I’m not free until every woman is free,” reflecting her unwavering dedication to advocating for the rights of women and gender minorities throughout Pakistan. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of activists who are determined to challenge societal norms and push for systemic change.
Upon receiving the TIME recognition, Omer expressed her heartfelt gratitude and renewed commitment to her cause through social media. She remarked, “I hope this reflects the limitless potential of Pakistani women. While there is still a long journey ahead, moments like this remind us how far we have come and how much further we can go.” Her words resonate deeply, symbolizing both the progress achieved and the challenges that remain in the fight for gender equality in Pakistan and beyond.
