It was in 2017 that the Punjab government’s Strategic Reforms Unit (SRU) launched the first of its kind ‘Violence against Women Centre’ (VAWC) in Multan with two-time Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, journalist and activist Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and women rights activist Rubina Shaheen as its goodwill ambassadors.
However, recent reports suggest that the only VAWC in Multan is on the verge of closing down due to lack of facilities. Recently, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy spoke up about constructing more ‘Violence against Women Centres’ across the country for homeless women and providing them shelter and all necessary amenities including police, legal, medical and psychological help. “If we all collectively work for women development to bring positive change in society, then I am sure Pakistan will shine in the global world,” shared Sharmeen.
She further went on to say that even though there are legislations that protect women’s rights, sadly there is no implementation and violence against women is on the rise in the country. “These shelters play an important role in safeguarding the rights of women and we need to provide women who are suffering a place where they can blossom and get awareness regarding their legal rights,” she added.
Sharmeen Obaid urged Prime Minister Imran Khan to visit the centre in Multan once and support the initiative.
Besides, the filmmaker spoke about women empowerment and said, “Empowering women and helping them to stand on their own two feet is a big contribution not only to the progress of Pakistan but for the economy as well. These empowered women will lay the foundation of a great economy of Pakistan.”
