Hindrances in women uplift be looked into

Islamabad: On the occasion of International Women’s Day (IWD), the National Commission on the Status of Women has urged the government to look into the procedures and approaches which hinder women access to justice and opportunities.

In a press statement issued by the commission on Wednesday, the Commission paid tribute to Asma Jahangir on this occasion. “Her efforts have contributed in creating enabling environment for women where they can prosper and walk side by side with men in all sectors of the society,” says the statement.

NCSW believed that IWD is an occasion to celebrate the achievements of Pakistani women besides reiterating commitment to continue struggling for a democratic, just, peaceful and tolerant society free of violence and discrimination against women.

The commission acknowledged the government’s support in the approval of women friendly legislation and policy decisions taken by the government to ensure women political and economic participation besides appreciating civil society and media for their continuous struggle and support to achieve equal opportunities and protection for women.

“Side by side, NCSW believes that there is a lot that needs to be done to ensure a society free of gender based violence through documentation, legal actions, enhanced support systems, responsive policing, effective implementation of women protection laws and new legislation. Special measures are required for women’s participation and representation in political and other decision making bodies/forums and to recognise and acknowledge women’s work and contribution, skills development and elimination of wage gap through policies and legislation where necessary.”