Pakistan is a country of 241 million vibrant and resilient people. Nearly half of its population are women. From the country’s founding with politician and stateswoman Fatima Jinnah to contemporary leaders like Muniba Mazari, Pakistan’s first National Ambassador for UN Women, women have been at the forefront of Pakistan's journey and transcended various domains. Despite their contributions, the state fails to protect this significant segment of society from violence.

Women Remain Victims of Increasing and Frequent Violence

Violence against women continues to haunt as incidents rise every year. Last year, one crime in particular sparked massive protests. It reminded women that even walking in a serene public park with a male colleague cannot shield them from violence. They can still be raped at gunpoint.  The frequency and spike of such attacks is alarming. Human Rights Watch reported that in the first four months of 2023, 10,365 cases of violence against women in Punjab province were reported to police. Experts believe that the actual figure is much higher due to reporting barriers.  The perpetrators of such violence are not limited to strangers. For too many women, the home is not a sanctuary. According to a 2020 study by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, 90% of women have experienced some form of domestic violence in their lifetime. Often committed behind closed doors, it leaves countless victims trapped in never-ending cycles of abuse. Similarly, the affliction of honor killings continues. An estimated 1,000 women lose their lives annually at the hands of their family members. Incredibly, these numbers fail to create unrest among the people or to bring action from the state. The frequency of this violence is a mere headline, which quickly slips from the public consciousness.

No Rights for Women in Patriarchal Pakistan

One factor that plays a significant role in the acceptance of violence against women is Pakistan’s patriarchal society. Women are usually viewed as property rather than individuals with rights. This mindset, supported by widely believed misinterpretations of culture and religion, has created a tolerance towards violence against women. Thus, domestic violence and honor killings are not even deemed crimes in society. Limited access to education for women, early marriages, and economic dependency all limit women’s ability to protect themselves from violence. Women from overlooked socioeconomic backgrounds are more significantly affected by gender-based violence. Most women are unaware of their rights and the legal process, which makes it more difficult to break the cycle of violence. The World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Gender Gap Report ranks Pakistan 145 out of 146 countries surveyed. The report noted, “The biggest challenge (for Pakistan) lies in closing its literacy rate gender gap, which is 67.1%.”

Constitutional Protections Not Upheld for Women

The limit on women’s literacy is quite contrary to what is proclaimed in the Pakistani Constitution, “The State shall remove illiteracy…” and “All citizens are equal before the law and entitled to equal protection of law…” The constitution categorically ensures all citizens the rights of life, liberty, and equality regardless of gender. Unfortunately, the state fails to uphold these fundamental rights. This has paved the way for violence against women across the country. Law enforcement agencies have consistently failed to handle cases regarding violence against women as evidenced by the alarmingly low conviction rate of 1%-2.5% for crimes against women. On a rare occurrence when a criminal investigation is opened, victims face harrowing experiences marked by delayed trials. And insensitivity Inadequate punishments for criminals add further distress. The systematic failure has disintegrated public trust in the judicial system.

Ending Violence Against Women Begins With Judicial Reform

An essential first step in rebuilding trust begins with law enforcement. Police units must be trained to handle cases of violence against women with sensitivity and proficiency. They must be equipped with the necessary provisions and staff for thorough investigations of the cases. This includes hiring females to make the process comfortable for the victims. Protection, financial assistance, and safe living space must be offered to safeguard those who testify against the violators. Moreover, speedy trials must be guaranteed by prioritizing cases of violence against women. Comprehensive judiciary reforms are essential to instill gender sensitivity in judges, prosecutors, and legal professionals. Stricter punishments must be implemented to send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated.

Pakistan Must Prioritize Gender Equality

Pakistan stands at a crossroads, struggling with a crisis of conscience as it fails to protect its women. From the heart-wrenching incidents of rape and domestic violence to terrifying statistics of honor killing, the reality is harsh: Women in Pakistan live under constant fear. Deeply entrenched patriarchal norms, systemic failures, and poor socioeconomic situation have created a storm of violence. The state's inability to provide the rights promised by the constitution has deteriorated the trust of its female citizens. Pakistan must prioritize gender equality, invest in women's empowerment, and rebuild its judicial system. By doing so the nation can advance towards creating a more equitable society.

Maheen Fatima is pursuing contemporary studies at National Defence University, Islamabad and has recently completed her 4th semester in BS Peace and Conflict studies.