uman Rights Day serves as a reminder of our collective obligation to uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals. It also casts a long shadow over the stark reality faced by women and girls in Pakistan. The 16 days of activism for the UNiTE campaign against gender-based violence, which coincides with this global observance, shine a much-needed spotlight on violence that women continue to face, both online and offline. This convergence should be more than a symbolic gesture; it must ignite a deep reflection on where we stand, and more importantly, on the long road ahead to eradicate gender-based violence and secure fundamental human rights for all.

In Pakistan, gender-based violence affects millions of women. Whether in the form of domestic violence, acid attacks, sexual assault, or technology-facilitated violence, GBV is a part of many women’s lives. The numbers are staggering. Nearly 90 per cent of the harassment complaints received by the Federal Investigation Agency are filed by women. Around 70 per cent of female students report facing harassment online, with 20 per cent considering leaving school due to fear and anxiety. The situation for working women, too, is dire, with 45 per cent reporting online abuse, and 15 per cent quitting their jobs because of it.

As these statistics indicate, the harassment women face is not confined to physical spaces. It extends to digital platforms, which were once seen as havens for empowerment and progress. With the rise of technology-facilitated gender-based violence, the very spaces intended to foster equality and opportunity have become tools for misogyny and control. From cyber-stalking and harassment to deep-fake pornography, the online world has become a new front in the battle for women’s rights. The Covid-19 pandemic only exacerbated this issue as more women moved online for work, education and social interaction, making them vulnerable to a new wave of exploitation and abuse.

Pakistan’s legal framework still falls short in addressing the scale of this issue. The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act of 2016, designed to tackle cybercrimes, lacks explicit provisions for addressing TFGBV. Although it includes clauses for protecting personal dignity and privacy, the implementation of these laws remains weak, with limited enforcement capacity and an outdated approach to dealing with emerging digital threats. The FIA’s Cyber Crime Wing, tasked with enforcing the law, operates with just 144 officers across the country. It’s no wonder that many victims of digital violence feel powerless and are deterred from reporting incidents.

The cultural stigma surrounding GBV in Pakistan further compounds the challenges. Domestic violence is often seen as a family matter that should be resolved behind closed doors rather than in a courtroom. This is compounded by deeply entrenched misogynistic attitudes that hold women responsible for the abuse they endure. These attitudes not only make it difficult for survivors to come forward but also hinder the enforcement of the laws that have been put in place to protect them.

It is here that the UNiTE campaign for 16 days of activism becomes crucial. This campaign is not just about raising awareness for a few days; it is a call to action for systemic change. For too long, women’s rights have been relegated to the margins of society’s concerns and women’s experiences of violence dismissed as inevitable or unimportant. The truth is that the GBV is not an isolated problem; it is a societal one. It is a reflection of how deeply ingrained gender inequality is in our cultural, legal, and political systems. It is a result of outdated laws, weak enforcement and the lack of resources for survivors. It is a symptom of how far we are from achieving gender equality.

The cultural normalisation of violence is compounded by deeply entrenched misogynistic attitudes that hold women responsible for the abuse they endure.

It’s time to think unconventionally and break the status quo. While legal reforms are essential, these alone will not suffice. We need a cultural shift. There is a need to challenge the misogynistic attitudes in the society. We need to ask why we continue to tolerate violence against women and why the voices of victims are ignored or silenced? Women are not the problem; the problem lies in societal perception vis-a-vis women. Until we begin to shift these indigenous perceptions and recognise the full humanity and potential of women, GBV will remain entrenched.

This shift must be led by both government and civil society. The state must invest more resources into the implementation of GBV laws, especially those related to online abuse. The FIA’s Cyber Crime Wing, for example, needs to be better equipped and staffed to address the growing number of complaints. Additionally, laws should be amended to include more specific provisions on TFGBV, such as cyber harassment, online stalking and the use of digital platforms to perpetrate abuse.

The government cannot do this alone. Civil society organisations like the UNFPA, Aurat Foundation and Rozan have been tirelessly working on the ground, raising awareness, providing support services and advocating for policy change. These organisations have a vital role in filling the gaps left by the state and must be supported and empowered to continue their work.

The role of IT companies is equally important. Social media platforms and digital service providers must be held accountable for the content shared on these. They must adopt gender-sensitive policies and work in tandem with local authorities to ensure that harmful content is flagged and removed. Artificial intelligence can play a role here in identifying abusive content before it spreads. It is the responsibility of these companies to create and enforce policies that promote safety and inclusion.

Another critical aspect of this change is providing accessible support for GBV survivors. Many women who experience abuse are left without adequate psychological, legal or financial support. Strengthening the referral systems and making these services more accessible, particularly for women in rural and marginalised communities, is essential. More helplines, counselling services and shelters are needed.

We must also ask ourselves how committed we are to ending GBV. Are we ready to invest in systemic reforms that address both the cultural and legal roots of GBV?

The opportunity to lead the charge for women’s rights and gender equality is within our reach. Tackling GBV requires a holistic approach. Prevention starts with media and education that challenge stereotypes and promote gender equality. Protection relies on strong legal frameworks, effective policies and accessible health services. A coordinated response, including support services across sectors, ensures survivors receive the care and justice they deserve. Finally, societal engagement through community involvement and economic empowerment creates an environment where women are safe, valued, and able to thrive.

The writer is a policy analyst and researcher with a master’s degree in public policy from King’s College, London.