Unfortunately, due to social norms and gender roles, harassment of women is still prevalent in Pakistan....
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Persecution or harassment is a serious issue in Pakistan. Harassment is an unfortunate reality that many women in Pakistan face on a regular basis. It can take many forms, such as verbal or physical abuse, unwanted sexual advances, or inappropriate comments. It can occur in the workplace, in public spaces such as markets and streets, or even within the home. Harassment can have a deep psychological impact on its victims and can create a hostile environment for them. Women should be able to feel safe and secure no matter where they are and should not have to face any form of harassment or discrimination. Unfortunately, due to social norms and gender roles, harassment of women is still prevalent in Pakistan.
Recently, Grace Network, in collaboration with Creative Headquarters, successfully concluded the ground-breaking one-day conference on ‘Persecution in Pakistan: Understanding its Impact and a Way Forward’. The event brought together a diverse range of experts to shed light on the various forms of persecution prevalent in the country and discuss strategies for progress.
The conference commenced with a powerful panel discussion featuring esteemed figures from human and women’s rights activism, social research, journalism and politics. Aisha Dharejo, an inspiring women’s rights activist, emphasised the significance of grassroots movements in effecting change. MPA Mr Anthony Naveed, a seasoned politician, stressed the importance of interfaith harmony and unity in combating persecution.
Advocate Abira Ashfaq and Senior Journalist Shahzeb Jilani provided a comprehensive historical perspective, tracing the roots of persecution over Pakistan’s 75-year history. Their thought-provoking analysis illuminated the complex social, religious, ethnic, gender, health, and educational dimensions of persecution and its lasting impact on society.
Arieb Azhar, an acclaimed artist, captivated the audience with his discussion on the transformative power of art as a tool for resistance against persecution. Azhar emphasised the ability of art to transcend boundaries and spark empathy, offering hope for a more inclusive and tolerant society.
Throughout the conference, attendees actively engaged in lively discussions, sharing personal experiences, and proposing practical solutions to address the multifaceted challenges of persecution. The event served as a platform for dialogue, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among participants.
The ‘Persecution in Pakistan’ conference marked a significant milestone, setting the stage for ongoing efforts to address and combat persecution in the country. The collective resolve demonstrated by the participants signals a promising step toward a brighter future, where all individuals can live with dignity, equality, and freedom. As the echoes of the conference reverberate, it is clear that the fight against persecution in Pakistan has gained momentum, and a united front is emerging to challenge and overcome the barriers that divide us.
-You! desk
