Creating an Enabling Environment: A Prerequisite for Women in Pakistan
Tahira Habib*
Pakistan currently has laws which protect the rights of women. The Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961, The Protection of Women against Harassment at the Workplace Act 2010 and Punjab Women Empowerment Package 2012 are examples of such legislations. Legislation provides an opportunity to provide justice. However, the enforcement of these laws is a huge challenge because of the absence of awareness among stakeholders and their families. Even if such awareness is present, there is an overwhelming fear of the social stigma attached to these issues where women are compromised. Added to this is lack of a conducive environment and safe spaces. Above all, the implementation of these laws is never taken seriously. As a result of these factors, women are reticent about going to the police or to the courts to get justice. If at all, they do file a complaint, they face a horde of problems both within and outside the system, and are often ridiculed. Compliance and accountability of existing laws and a paradigm shift in social behaviours is essential to improve women’s access to justice in Pakistan.
* Ms Tahira Habib is a human rights activist with a focus on women rights. Her vast experience as complaints Cell In-Charge at the Human Rights Commission (HRCP) of Pakistan has given her insight about the extent to which the judiciary provides access to justice to women in Pakistan.