Medics fight to end harassment

Committees to be formed at all public, private entities

PESHAWAR:

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has instructed all medical and dental colleges, whether public or private, to establish anti-harassment committees.

According to a notification issued in this regard, the directive is an important step toward ensuring a safe and respectful environment for students, faculty, and staff in medical and dental institutions.

"Workplace harassment is a serious issue in Pakistan, affecting both men and women. The purpose of these anti-harassment committees is to address complaints of harassment, raise awareness about respectful behavior, and implement measures to prevent harassment," the statement read.

This initiative aligns with efforts to strengthen anti-harassment policies in Pakistan and ensure the protection of individuals in academic and professional settings.

The notification further stated that all public medical and dental colleges must establish their own anti-harassment committees to address issues within their institutions. This significant step aims to create a dignified and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff.

These committees will investigate complaints of harassment, and are required to submit their reports within 10 days of receiving a complaint.

According to PMDC President Professor Dr Rizwan Taj, the council believes these committees will play a vital role in promoting accountability, strengthening preventive measures, and encouraging individuals to report harassment cases without fear.

He emphasised that workplace harassment is not limited to sexual harassment or inappropriate demands, but also includes various forms of discrimination and mistreatment.

These include gender discrimination which undermines professional abilities, verbal harassment, psychological harassment, such as rudeness or undue criticism, racial and disability-based discrimination, age and religion-based harassment, and abuse of authority, such as unrealistic expectations or public humiliation,