Pakistan: 'Culture of silence' blamed for surge in violence against women

A coalition of human rights advocates, legal experts, and civil society leaders in Sukkur, Pakistan, has issued an urgent call for a complete overhaul of the justice system, warning that protections for women are being systematically undermined. The group argues that statutory safeguards are rendered ineffective by poor institutional implementation and deeply ingrained societal stigma, contributing to a pervasive 'culture of silence.'

During a seminar titled “Violence Against Women: Culture of Silence, Societal Acceptance and Institutional Response,” speakers emphasized that legislation alone cannot combat gender-based violence. A significant shift in public mindset and state accountability is crucial, they stated. The event, co-hosted by the Sindh Women Lawyers Alliance, the National Commission for Rights of Women, and the Community Development Foundation (CDF), underscored the vast disparity between legal provisions and the reality faced by women on the ground.

Keynote speaker Rubina Brohi described violence against women as a fundamental human rights violation, not merely a private domestic issue. While acknowledging existing protective laws, she pointed to systemic failures within law enforcement and the judiciary that routinely deny survivors timely justice. "The lack of effective implementation remains our greatest hurdle," Brohi stated, urging police, prosecution departments, and the judiciary to adopt a proactive and accountable approach to ensure survivor protection.

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The lack of effective implementation remains our greatest hurdle.

Panellists further identified the 'culture of silence,' fueled by social pressure and fear of retaliation, as a major barrier preventing victims from reporting abuse. This silence effectively shields perpetrators from legal consequences. The delegates advocated for pairing legal frameworks with grassroots community mobilization to dismantle misogynistic social attitudes. They proposed a multi-layered support strategy, including targeted awareness campaigns and streamlined, state-funded legal aid for survivors, alongside critical psychosocial support services and mental health infrastructure.

The seminar concluded with a joint resolution demanding stringent institutional accountability, immediate enforcement of pro-women laws, and a unified campaign to eradicate violence against women and girls across the province. Prominent figures from various civil society organizations, academia, and journalism participated in the forum.

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The lack of effective implementation remains our greatest hurdle.