KARACHI:
Each year, different gender equality and human rights indices remind us of the ever-widening gender gap in Pakistan. Although globalisation and technological advancements have increased women’s participation in the workforce, this shift has come at the cost of women’s safety. Women are constantly faced with the risk of sexual harassment, violence, and discrimination at workplaces. According to White Ribbon Pakistan, 4,734 women have been sexually abused and over 15,000 cases of honour crimes were registered in Pakistan between 2004 to 2016. Another periodical report revealed a 200% increase in cases of violence against women within the first three months of 2020.
Poor implementation of laws coupled with a patriarchal mindset has allowed the prevalence of violence and abuse against women. Daily many women face some degree of harassment or violence at either educational institutes, workplaces, or roads and public transport. The constant sense of insecurity takes a toll on many and prevents them from studying or working.
The concerned authorities must consider this issue in earnest and take stringent measures to guarantee the rights and safety of all women. Those accused of violence or assault against women should be given exemplary punishment. Instead of peddling the victim-blaming and shaming narratives, the patriarchal mindset should be dismantled through informative campaigns. Women across the country should be allowed to live their lives peacefully.
Uzma Maryam
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, October 7th, 2022.
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