Violence is the consequence of gender inequality.
KARACHI: Violence is the consequence of gender inequality. Sometimes men think they are superior and in control. Some people believe that men are strong. Men often have more power and greater status than women. We observe this both in private and public life — in homes, workplaces and communities.
The causes of violence against women include gender norms, accepting and sometimes approving violence against women, men controlling decision-making, limits to women’s independence in public and private life, discrimination, experience of and exposure to violence, alcohol and substance use, cultural and religious practices and loss of traditional family and community support system.
Preventive measures range from the implementation of laws promoting gender equality, women’s empowerment and their enjoyment of human rights, increase women’s participation and decision-making power in homes as well as in public life and politics. It is important to raise awareness through community gathering, media and social media.
I call on the national government to enact laws with respect to gender equality and support as well as promote legislation concerning the provisions on human rights.
Syeda Ibtissam Zaidi
Published in The Express Tribune, February 20th, 2020.
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