Support each other on this grave violation of human rights

Islamabad

Violence against women can only be stopped if women realise their potential, speak up and support each other on this grave violation of human rights. It is weakness and lack of self-esteem which compels perpetrators to inflict harm to women.

This was stated by Minister of State and Chairperson BISP MNA Marvi Memon in a ceremony organized to commemorate the International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women.

UN Women goodwill ambassador Muneeba Mazari, Chairperson Acid Survivors Foundation Valerie Khan, Executive Director Mehergarh Maliha Hussain, Chairperson Research Department Dawa Academy Tahir Mehmood, acid survivors, members of civil society, media  and a large number of beneficiaries attended the event.

UN Women goodwill ambassador Muniba Mazari said that we need to beak stereotypes to empower women. Mothers should raise real men who know how to respect and value women. We should work as a team to eliminate violence against women.

Acid Survivors Foundation Chairperson Valerie Khan highlighted that Pakistan has come a long way in countering acid violence. Since 2013 acid throwing cases have declined by 40%-50% but the enactment of comprehensive Acid and Burn Crime Bill would be crucial in curbing this crime.

Chairperson Research Dawa Academy Tahir Mehmood stated that women are held in high esteem in Islam. They have been granted all types of social, financial, legal and political rights prohibiting violence against them.

Executive Director Mehergarh Maliha Hussain while speaking on harassment at work place stated that situation has improved since the enactment of harassment laws by the parliament. We all need to put in our share in removing the biggest hurdle in women’s progress in Pakistan.

Acid survivors Samina, Asia and Shahida narrated their stories and encouraged BISP beneficiaries to stand up against violence. They said that they were victimised by acid throwing and domestic violence but they stood up and were able to start a new life.

Chairperson BISP iterated that the strict implementation of laws protecting women against violence as Women Protection Bill, Acid Control and Acid Crime Prevention Bill, Protection against Harassment of Women at Workplace Bill and Prevention of Anti Women Practices Bill and encouragement of social uplift programmes like BISP mandated to redefine the lives of women can help stop violence against women.

During her address, Chairperson BISP also encouraged beneficiaries to report any kind of violence, they face, at BISP helpline number 0800-26477. She assured them that their complaints will be addressed.