Exhibit highlights endemic workplace harassment

FOSPAH aims to spread awareness through evocative art pieces

ISLAMABAD:

The Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) on Monday held an art exhibition titled "Workplace Harassment - Breaking the Silence".

The exhibition brought together artists, students, professionals and rights advocates from across the country to spark dialogue, encourage accountability and promote safer workplaces in Pakistan. It showcased over 250 remarkable entries across three categories of handmade posters, digital art, and short videos. Submissions were sent in by artists who use art as a medium to challenge stigma, amplify survivors' voices and call for systemic change.

The entries were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges, which included Saba Zia, Noshaba Naz and Sarah Rajper, whose expertise added immense value to the jury process. Addressing the audience, the Honourable Federal Ombudsperson emphasised the critical role of public engagement in dismantling harmful norms that enable harassment. "Creating awareness is the first step," she noted. "Through initiatives like this exhibition, we aim to break the silence together."

The event was attended by Federal Minister for Law & Justice, Azam Nazeer Tarar, who was the Chief Guest. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure safe and respectful workplaces, acknowledging that both strong legal frameworks and public engagement are essential for sustainable change. He appreciated FOSPAH's continued initiatives aimed at strengthening protections and awareness nationwide.

The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, media personnel and young artists.