Muhammad Muzammal

Gender-based violence refers to harmful actions that are directed at an individual based on their gender. It encompasses physical, sexual, psychological, and emotional violence, and it can occur in public or private settings. Gender-based violence is deeply rooted in gender inequality and discrimination, and it disproportionately affects women and girls. However, it is essential to acknowledge that gender-based violence can also affect men and people of all gender identities.

There are several kinds of gender-based violence, including but not limited to:

1. Domestic Violence: This includes physical, emotional, and psychological abuse within intimate relationships or households.
2. Sexual Violence: It involves any form of non-consensual sexual contact or behavior, such as rape, sexual assault, and harassment.
3. Human Trafficking: This involves the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for labor or services, through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of exploitation.
4. Child Marriage: This refers to a formal marriage or informal union before the age of 18, and it is a violation of human rights.

It is critical to end gender-based violence because it has severe and long-lasting impacts on individuals, families, communities, and societies as a whole. Gender-based violence has detrimental effects on physical and mental health, hinders access to education and economic opportunities, perpetuates cycles of poverty, and undermines social cohesion. Furthermore, it violates fundamental human rights and reinforces gender inequalities. According to [specific statistic], the economic cost of gender-based violence in Pakistan is [specific amount], highlighting its broader societal effects.

Tackling gender-based violence requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses its root causes and provides comprehensive support to survivors. Some key strategies include:

1. Legal Reforms: Implementing and enforcing laws that criminalize gender-based violence and protect the rights of survivors.
2. Education and Awareness: Promoting gender equality through education, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement to challenge harmful gender norms and stereotypes.
3. Support Services: Providing accessible and survivor-centered support services, including counseling, shelters, and legal assistance.
4. Empowerment and Economic Opportunities: Creating opportunities for economic empowerment and leadership for women and marginalized communities.
5. Engaging Men and Boys: Encouraging men and boys to actively challenge and prevent gender-based violence, recognizing that they also play a crucial role in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
6. Collaboration and International Cooperation: Fostering collaboration between governments, civil society organizations, and international agencies to address gender-based violence at local, national, and global levels.

By addressing gender-based violence comprehensively and holistically, we can work towards creating a world where everyone can live free from violence and discrimination based on their gender.

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue in Pakistan, despite strides in legislation. Shockingly, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reports that 32 percent of women in Pakistan have endured some form of GBV, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, trafficking, ‘honour’ crimes, and more.

The impact of GBV on young girls is profound, significantly affecting survivors’ physical and mental health. The UNFPA reports that GBV leads to anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among survivors, robbing them of their individuality, dignity, and self-worth. The physical toll includes enduring health issues and contributes to Pakistan’s high maternal mortality rate and prevalent women’s health issues.

The high prevalence of GBV is closely associated with the patriarchal control that dominates Pakistan’s social and cultural landscape. Patriarchy has normalized the oppression and objectification of women, fueling gender disparity and hindering women’s participation in crucial societal institutions such as education, politics, and the workforce.

The low labour force participation rate of women, at 26 percent compared to 84 percent for men, speaks to the complex interplay between patriarchal norms and gender inequality, perpetuating a cycle of violence and exclusion.

Social stigma presents a formidable obstacle in addressing GBV in Pakistan, leading to underreporting and shielding perpetrators from accountability. Victim-blaming, ostracism, and the fear of further violence deter women from speaking out and seeking justice. Additionally, the judicial system, while struggling with the implementation of laws intended to protect women, presents an opportunity for justice. However, the low conviction rate for GBV cases is a significant challenge that needs to be addressed.

Education emerges as a potent tool in combating GBV, with comprehensive educational programs capable of challenging harmful gender norms and empowering women to assert their rights. Educated women are more likely to seek help to end violence, highlighting the impact of education in enabling women to understand relevant laws and seek appropriate assistance.

A multifaceted approach involving government bodies, women’s rights organizations, and the media is imperative to combat GBV in Pakistan. The media, through its reporting and advocacy, plays a crucial role in raising awareness and shaping public opinion on gender-based violence. Coordinated efforts at the national and provincial levels, facilitated by relevant ministries and commissions, are essential to promoting and protecting women’s rights.

The development of short- and long-term strategies focusing on immediate support mechanisms and systemic reforms is crucial. Short-term strategies should prioritize accessible shelters, hotlines, and emergency assistance, while long-term approaches aim to bring about systemic reforms, including capacity-building for law enforcement agencies to handle GBV cases effectively.

By fostering a supportive environment and committing to sustained investment and action, Pakistan can make significant strides in eliminating GBV and advancing women’s rights on a national scale.

Lastly and most importantly, awareness is vital to control gender-based violence for several reasons. First and foremost, raising awareness helps to challenge and change societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender-based violence. By educating individuals and communities about the impact of gender-based violence and the rights of survivors, we can work towards creating a culture that does not tolerate such behavior.

Increased awareness also encourages survivors to seek help and support, as well as to report incidents of gender-based violence. This can lead to earlier intervention, protection for survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

Moreover, awareness initiatives play a crucial role in informing individuals about available support services and resources, thereby ensuring that survivors have access to the help they need.

By shedding light on this critical issue, we can create a more supportive and empathetic society that actively works to prevent and address gender-based violence, ultimately promoting a safer and more equitable environment for all.