Women’s rights are human rights
Sir: This is with reference to Women’s Day, which is marked globally with the theme of ending violence against women. The day was warmly celebrated by representatives of civil society, media and government organisations at the national and international level, representing an increased level of awareness about women’s rights amongst communities. Despite all this, a high percentage of women, especially in developing countries, are still facing the miseries of physical, sexual and psychological violence. A research study recently launched by Rutgers WPF revealed that, besides physical violence, 66 percent of the total interviewed women experienced sexual violence while 93 percent women experienced marital rape. Harmful traditional practices in the shape of early marriages, honour killings, vani and watta satta are still hindering the wellbeing of women in the country.
There is much more needed to protect women’s rights besides merely observing the day on an annual basis. In this regard, the government should take effective steps to implement national laws and legislation in line with international set standards to reduce the sufferings of victims of domestic violence.
AMINA SARWAR
Islamabad
Source: Daily Times
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