The alarming rise of gender-based violence (GBV) in Pakistan is an issue that can no longer be ignored.
Behind every shocking headline is a woman, a daughter, a sister—someone like us. Gender-based
violence is not just a women’s issue, it’s a societal crisis that affects every household in Pakistan.
Whether it's street harassment, domestic abuse, or the tragic killings in the name of "honor," the fabric
of our communities is torn every time a woman is subjected to violence.
The reality is that this violence often begins at home. Too many women in Pakistan grow up witnessing
their mothers endure emotional, physical, or verbal abuse. As a result, it becomes normalized, and the
cycle continues. As readers, many of us know someone who has been affected—whether it’s a close
friend, a relative, or even ourselves. Yet, we stay silent out of fear, shame, or the belief that speaking up
won’t make a difference.
But this silence comes at a cost. Violence against women is not only a violation of basic human rights but
also a major barrier to our country's social and economic development. When women are silenced or
live in fear, they are prevented from contributing to society as fully as they could. And when victims of
violence are forced into silence, we are all complicit in propagating a culture of liberty.
To break this cycle, we need to re-examine our values. Respect and safety should not be privileges for a
few but rights for everyone. We must support survivors by offering them safe spaces, legal support, and
resources to rebuild their lives. Beyond that, we need to educate boys and young men about healthy
relationships, respect, and equality. After all, this issue won't disappear until we address its roots in our
cultural mindset.
Each of us has a role to play, whether it's by raising our voice against violence, offering support to
survivors, or challenging the societal norms that allow these violence to persist. Let us not wait for the
next horrifying incident to shake us from our complacency. Gender-based violence concerns all of us,
and only through collective action can we create a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can
live in peace and safety.
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