ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have urged all the citizens including youth among all social and religious leaders and teachers to unite against violence on women to eliminate it.
On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, President emphasized that violence against women is a serious violation of human rights and expressed solidarity with women and girls worldwide.
President Zardari highlighted the importance of empowering women through education, skills development, and economic independence, while noting that strong legal frameworks and changes in cultural attitudes are essential.
This year’s theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls”, underscores the urgent need to address increasing violence in the digital world.
He praised the Government of Pakistan for enacting significant laws to protect women and noted that Sindh, Islamabad, and Punjab have led efforts to end child marriage, urging other provinces to strengthen their legislation.
The President stressed strict enforcement of laws and affirmed that every woman and girl deserves a life free from fear and violence. He also commended the efforts of affected women, activists, and institutions working for women’s rights.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised that the country is raising its voice with the whole world to highlight this important cause as this year’s theme is “Unite to End Digital Violence against Women”.
He said this theme draws attention to the violence and harassment faced by women at various levels and platforms in the modern era and this day provides us with an opportunity to reflect and renew this commitment and unite and fight against it.
“We need to adopt a multi-pronged strategy to completely eliminate incidents of violence and harassment against women. A comprehensive strategy should not only include measures to prevent such incidents but also include compassion for the affected women and reforming the exploitative system of society,” PM Shehbaz said.
He added that the violence against women is not only a violation of humanity, basic human rights, but also a major obstacle to the peace, tranquility, development and prosperity of society. The Constitution of Pakistan, he said clearly guarantees the dignity and respect of women and provides equal rights, but still women in our society faced discrimination in many situations.
The prime minister also spotlighted the government endeavours to ensure institutional support for women affected by violence. In this context, he said independent commissions have been established, including the National Human Rights Commission, the National Commission for Children and the National Commission for Women.
However, Prime Minister Shehbaz noted that no law or government policy alone can ensure eradication of violence against women unless the protection of women is made an overall priority in society and a voice is raised against it in society.
The prime minister asserted that all relevant government agencies, society, governmental and non-governmental organizations and international cooperation could only ensure a safe, just and equal environment for women in Pakistan by working together.
