Summary One out of every three women around the world is a victim of torture.
(Web Desk/ Dunya News) – An International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is being observed today (Wednesday). The United Nations (UN) has designated the day to spread awareness regarding common forms of violence excessively committing against women all across the world.
The campaign was launched on November 25, 2000. Initially, many organizations including civil society jointly expressed concern over violence against women at high figure.
"Violence against women and girls takes many forms and is widespread throughout the globe. On this International Day, I urge governments and partners around the world to harness the energy, ideas and leadership of young people to help us to end this pandemic of violence. Only then will we have a more just, peaceful and equitable world." Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s message on November 25, 2011.
One out of every three women around the world is a victim of domestic or physical violence, rape, honour killings and acid attacks.
According to the International Labour Organization, nearly 5 million people are victims of sex trafficking each year among which women and girls are in large number.
According to a report prepared by non-governmental organization (NGO), more than 10,000 women have been subjected to physical torture this year in Pakistan only. The number of women killed for giving birth to girls and acid attacks have gone up.
According to another report, there were 860 ‘honour’ killings (mostly women), 481 incidents of domestic violence, 90 cases of acid burning, 344 cases of rape or gang rape and 268 incidents of sexual harassment.
Pakistan stands on 82nd position out of 93 countries in the Gender Empowerment Measure and ranks on 115 out of 140 countries in the Gender Inequality Index.
A few days ago, 25-year-old Naila was doused with acid for refusing to marry the man much elder than her. Separately, Tehmina also faced brutal violence just after her marriage as her husband threw acid on her.
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One of the biggest problems for women is lack of economic resources but if the authorities empower them economically, this may play an important role in eradicating the issue. The government should watch that every girl would be able to get education and awareness about her rights.
On the other hand, Punjab government announced to establish Violence Against Women Centers (VAWC) for the defense of the women against violence. Victims of violence will not only be able to report the violence cases to VAWC through helpline but will also be able to get speedy justice through the department.
VAWC will provide helpline and transport to the victims. All the facilities will be women-run and work 24/7. The department will also provide the victims with the facility to lodge FIR, medical examination, forensics, prosecution and post-trauma rehabilitation under one roof.
The department will also be responsible for assisting the victims in getting them placed back into the society. They will be kept in Shelter homes after investigation.
It is also important to mention here that Pakistan is first in the region to launch such an initiative.
