Women urged to report digital abuse

NCSW aims to strengthen protection mechanisms, help women seek justice

ISLAMABAD:

NCSW Chairperson Umme Laila Azhar pointed out that the reporting of cases has increased, with more women now coming forward compared to previous years. However, she emphasised that women from low-income communities still require more support and awareness in order to feel empowered to report such incidents.

She called on women in low-income communities to report incidents of violence, especially digital abuse, as the commission launches its 16 Days of Activism campaign, with complaints which can be easily registered through the NCSW's website and apps.

Laila Azhar discussed the commission's recent efforts to combat violence against women, particularly focusing on digital violence cases. She revealed that NCSW has launched a confidential complaint cell designed to help women report incidents safely and securely.

She pointed out that the reporting of cases has increased, with more women now coming forward compared to previous years. However, she emphasised that women from low-income communities still require more support and awareness in order to feel empowered to report such incidents.

Answering questions, she stressed the importance of identifying gaps in the system and actively working to implement solutions. She further reassured that NCSW is dedicated to improving outreach, increasing awareness and providing women with the tools they need to seek justice.

Responding a query, she highlighted that in recent years, there has been a notable increase in harassment and violence cases in Pakistan, with reports indicating a rise in both physical and psychological abuse.

This uptick, particularly in cases of gender-based violence, is attributed to a combination of factors, including increased awareness and reporting, but also persistent societal challenges like entrenched gender norms, inadequate law enforcement and limited support for survivors. She added that despite legal advances, the data suggests that much more needs to be done to effectively address and prevent such violence. Azhar concluded by reaffirming the NCSW's commitment to spreading awareness and bridging existing gaps to ensure all women, regardless of their economic background, have access to support.