Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani have urged all the citizens including youth among all social and religious leaders and teachers to unite against violence on women to eliminate it.
In his message on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the prime minister emphasised that the country is raising its voice with the whole world to highlight this important cause as this year’s theme is “Unite to End Digital Violence against Women”.
He said this theme draws attention to the violence and harassment faced by women at various levels and platforms in the modern era and this day provides us with an opportunity to reflect and renew this commitment and unite and fight against it.
“We need to adopt a multi-pronged strategy to completely eliminate incidents of violence and harassment against women. A comprehensive strategy should not only include measures to prevent such incidents but also include compassion for the affected women and reforming the exploitative system of society,” PM Shehbaz said.
He added that the violence against women is not only a violation of humanity, basic human rights, but also a major obstacle to the peace, tranquility, development and prosperity of society. The Constitution of Pakistan, he said clearly guarantees the dignity and respect of women and provides equal rights, but still women in our society faced discrimination in many situations.
He underlined that the government recognized the International Convention on the Elimination of Violence against Women at the global level, whereas policy, legislative, administrative, institutional and other measures were being taken at the government level to protect women’s rights. These measures also include the Prime Minister’s Package for Empowering Women, he added.
The prime minister also spotlighted the government endeavours to ensure institutional support for women affected by violence. In this context, he said independent commissions have been established, including the National Human Rights Commission, the National Commission for Children and the National Commission for Women.
Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating all forms of violence against women, emphasizing that safeguarding women’s dignity, rights, and safety is a national and moral imperative.
He expressed these words in his message on the International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed globally.
Chairman Gilani said that violence against women is a grave human rights violation and a barrier to social progress. He underscored that ensuring women’s protection and empowerment remains central to Pakistan’s democratic values and constitutional guarantees, said a press release issued here.
Highlighting his longstanding efforts for women’s mainstreaming, the Chairman noted that he has consistently supported initiatives to strengthen women’s leadership, enhance their participation in governance, and expand opportunities for their socio-economic advancement.
He recalled that during his tenure as Prime Minister, significant steps were taken to increase women’s representation and institutional support systems, and as Chairman Senate, he remains committed to legislative and oversight reforms that uphold women’s rights.
Chairman Gilani stressed that Islam accords the highest respect and protection to women, and clearly prohibits all forms of oppression and coercion.
He stated that the teachings of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) provide a guiding framework rooted in compassion, justice, and equality, making the protection of women a sacred duty for all.
He called upon policymakers, civil society, religious scholars, and community leaders to work together to eliminate gender-based violence and build a society where every woman and girl can live free from fear and discrimination.
