Justice and Human Rights Pakistan Project #55589

Stop Violence against women in Pakistan

by Joy Foundation

Project Report | Jan 8, 2025
Stop Violence against Women in Pakistan

By Yaqoob Masih | Project leader

Introduction

Violence against women (VAW) is a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue in Pakistan. According to the United Nations, one in three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. In Pakistan, this number is even higher, with an estimated 70-80% of women experiencing domestic violence.

Types of Violence against Women in Pakistan

1. Domestic Violence: Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse by intimate partners or family members.

2. Acid Attacks: Throwing acid on women as a form of revenge or punishment.

3. Honor Killings: Murdering women in the name of family honor.

4. Rape and Sexual Assault: Non-consensual sexual acts.

5. Forced Marriages: Coercing women into marrying against their will.

6. Trafficking: Buying, selling, or exploiting women for labor or sex.

Causes of Violence against Women in Pakistan

1. Patriarchal Society: Deep-rooted gender inequality and male dominance.

2. Lack of Education: Limited access to education, particularly for women.

3. Poverty: Economic dependence on men.

4. Cultural and Social Norms: Harmful practices like honor killings and forced marriages.

5. Weak Law Enforcement: Inadequate implementation of laws protecting women.

Consequences of Violence against Women in Pakistan

1. Physical and Emotional Trauma: Long-term health consequences, including depression and anxiety.

2. Social Isolation: Stigma and exclusion from society.

3. Economic Dependence: Limited access to education and employment opportunities.

4. Perpetuation of Cycle of Violence: Children witnessing violence are more likely to experience or perpetrate violence themselves.

Recommendations to Stop Violence against Women in Pakistan

1. Strengthen Law Enforcement: Improve implementation of laws protecting women, such as the Protection of Women against Harassment at Workplace Act (2010).

2. Increase Education and Awareness: Promote gender equality, challenge harmful social norms, and educate women about their rights.

3. Provide Support Services: Establish safe shelters, counseling services, and economic empowerment programs for survivors.

4. Engage Men and Boys: Encourage men to become allies in preventing VAW and promoting gender equality.

5. Address Root Causes: Address poverty, lack of education, and patriarchal attitudes through sustainable development programs.

Conclusion

Stopping violence against women in Pakistan requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of this issue. It demands collective action from the government, civil society, and individuals to create a society where women can live without fear of violence and discrimination.

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Sep 23, 2024
Stop Violence against Women in Pakistan

By Yaqoob Masih | Project leader

Introduction

Violence against women (VAW) is a pervasive and entrenched issue in Pakistan, threatening the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of millions of women. The Joy Foundation, a non-profit organization, is committed to eradicating this social evil. This report highlights the scope of the problem, our initiatives, and the impact of our efforts.

Prevalence of Violence Against Women in Pakistan

Pakistan ranks 6th on the Global Gender Gap Index, with alarming rates of VAW:

- 70% of women experience physical or psychological violence (UNFPA)
- 5000-7000 women are killed annually in the name of "honor" (Human Rights Commission of Pakistan)
- 90% of women face domestic violence (National Commission on the Status of Women)

Forms of Violence

VAW in Pakistan manifests in various forms:

- Domestic violence
- Honor killings
- Acid attacks
- Forced marriages
- Rape and sexual assault
- Trafficking

Joy Foundation's Initiatives

To combat VAW, we:

1. Established a Helpline: Providing 24/7 support and counseling to victims.
2. Conducted Awareness Campaigns: Organized workshops, seminars, and rallies in rural and urban areas.
3. Empowered Women: Provided vocational training and economic support to enhance financial independence.
4. Engaged Community Leaders: Collaborated with local leaders to promote positive attitudes and behaviors.
5. Provided Legal Aid: Offered free legal assistance to victims.

Impact

Our efforts have:

- Supported over 500 victims through our helpline
- Reached 10,000 individuals through awareness campaigns
- Empowered 200 women through vocational training
- Reduced reported cases of VAW by 20% in targeted areas

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite progress, challenges persist:

- Societal attitudes and norms
- Limited resources and funding
- Inadequate legislation and enforcement

To overcome these challenges, we:

- Seek increased funding and partnerships
- Advocate for stronger legislation and policy implementation
- Expand our reach to more rural areas

Conclusion

The Joy Foundation remains committed to eradicating violence against women in Pakistan. We urge stakeholders, policymakers, and individuals to join us in this fight. Together, we can create a safer, more equitable society for all.

Recommendations

1. Strengthen laws and enforcement mechanisms
2. Increase funding for VAW initiatives
3. Promote education and awareness
4. Engage men and boys in prevention efforts
5. Support survivors through comprehensive services

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May 15, 2024
Stop Violence against Women in Pakistan

By Yaqoob Masih | Project leader

Every year, hundreds of women of all ages, in all parts of the country, are reported killed in the name of honour. Many more cases go unreported, and almost all go unpunished. The lives of millions of Pakistani women are circumscribed by traditions, which enforce extreme seclusion and submission to men, many of whom impose their proprietorship over women with violence. For the most part, women bear this traditional male control over every aspect of their bodies, speech and behavior with stoicism, as part of their fate. Exposure to media, the work of women’s rights groups and the greater degree of mobility in recent times however, have seen the beginnings of women’s rights awareness seep into their secluded world.

Pakistan has several laws and policies against various forms of violence. Challenges remain however in implementing these measures. Many women still lack access to free or affordable essential services in sectors such as health, police, justice and social support to ensure their safety, protection and recovery. Not enough is done to prevent violence, which is the most challenging but also effective way to eliminate violence in a sustainable way.

Joy Foundation is trying to contribute his part in this big issue in our country. Joy Foundation is working in our poor district of Pakistan where people hardly get education. They did not like to give education to the girls because they think that after a few days girls will get married and go to another house so it is better for her to learn how to work in house. Joy Foundation is trying to change this mentality of people to make girls' lives better and also if the girls are educated they are able to understand their rights. For this we request this project through our friend at GlobalGiving and request to all the partners please support us to make possible for girls to fight their rights

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