The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan organized a protest at the Karachi Press Club to denounce the increasing incidents of sexual harassment against women nationwide. The demonstration, attended by human rights defenders, women’s rights activists, and concerned citizens, called for stricter enforcement of laws, prompt justice for victims, and effective measures to safeguard women’s safety and rights. Speakers at the event condemned all forms of harassment, stressing the urgent need for collective efforts to combat gender-based violence in Pakistan.
The HRC highlighted sexual harassment as a severe violation of human rights and urged various entities including the Government of Pakistan, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and workplaces to take concrete actions to prevent harassment, support victims, and hold offenders accountable. The rights body, in collaboration with a women’s organization, reiterated their dedication to protecting women’s rights, promoting awareness, and advocating for a society where every woman can live securely and respectfully.
A recent report revealed that violence against women in Pakistan is deeply rooted in institutions, endorsed by traditional councils, tolerated by authorities, and perpetuated through media narratives. The normalization of abuse reflects a lack of respect for female autonomy, with punitive measures alone deemed insufficient to dismantle this harmful system. The report emphasized the importance of justice, expressing concerns over low conviction rates, state reluctance to address traditional councils, and media involvement that perpetuates impunity, leaving women vulnerable.
In a tragic incident, young physician Mahnoor Narsir was attacked with acid at Quetta’s civil hospital, underscoring the gendered brutality prevalent in Pakistan. The assault was described as a severe act of gender-based violence and workplace insecurity, symbolizing the unsafe conditions women often encounter. The report also mentioned the unfortunate incidents involving social media influencer Sana Yousaf’s murder in Islamabad and the brutal killing of Noor Mukadam by her boyfriend after rejecting a marriage proposal, incidents that sparked nationwide outrage.
