The rapid spread of AI-generated photos poses serious risks for societies like ours, where women’s progress and independence are already constrained by cultural and social barriers. In Pakistan, a single manipulated image can tarnish a woman’s reputation, limit her educational or professional opportunities, and even endanger her safety. These harms are not abstract; they directly obstruct the fragile gains women have made in public life. The next honour killings would be probably because of AI-generated images.
AI, therefore, is not merely a technological challenge but a governance issue. Just as states regulate health, education, or media, they must now regulate artificial intelligence to safeguard citizens. Without transparent laws, efficient governance, ethical oversight and accountability, AI will deepen gender inequalities. Responsible governance can ensure AI is used to empower women — through education, healthcare and entrepreneurship — rather than to control or stigmatise them.
The trend of AI-generated images is getting dangerous day by day. Pakistan cannot afford to treat AI governance as a luxury; it is a necessity for protecting social trust and human dignity. In this digital era, the credibility of women and the integrity of society depend on whether AI is governed wisely and justly.
Zainab Sania
Lakki Marwat
