The World Is Her Oyster: Unlocking Women's Potential and Expertise

 The World Is Her Oyster: Unlocking Women's Potential and Expertise

                             

 

Girls and women around the world continue to suffer from the negative impacts of rigid gender norms and roles. They face restrictions on their freedom and mobility, and often experience violence, harassment, discrimination, and inequality. Although the United Nations (U.N.) Millennium Goals were established to promote gender equality and women's empowerment, two-thirds of the developing world have still not achieved equality. Women continue to encounter issues related to gender inequality, including gaps in education, legal rights, and economic opportunities.

Women are disproportionately affected by economic, food, and climate crises. They face systemic exclusion, discriminatory labor markets, and inadequate social services. In response, various women's organizations have voiced their concerns, emphasizing the socio-economic and cultural factors that have contributed to increased inequality, violence, exploitation, and injustice against women.

Women representatives from Tanzania, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, the United States, and Canada have highlighted significant advancements in the global effort to eradicate violence against women. This includes the enactment of laws against marital rape and the fight against human trafficking, with a particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable immigrant women through comprehensive national action plans. Moreover, global states and international organizations have recognized the importance of women's economic empowerment. Women’s self-reliance is crucial for ensuring equal access to resources, promoting sustainable development, reducing poverty, fostering inclusive economic growth, and enhancing decision-making power for women.

 The rising role of women in Pakistan's socio-economic and political landscape is increasingly significant, with notable progress observed across the fields, including health, education, entrepreneurship, and digital media and entertainment. Despite their resilience and strength, women still face social and economic disparities. Issues such as limited access to employment and education, an increase in trafficking, and the sexual exploitation of women remain prevalent.

A young girl from Gilgit-Baltistan named Mahnoor shared her struggles and the challenges of her life.  “I am one of six siblings, and my father and elder sister are the main supporters of our family. My father works in a factory for low pay, while my elder sister is a school teacher and also gives private tuition. I managed to study until the eighth grade, but I could not continue my education because my family could not afford the expenses. I have always had an interest in knitting and stitching, so I decided to take a sewing course at an institute in Gilgit-Baltistan. I learned about basic machine tools, stitches, and simple projects. Within six months, I became proficient in stitching fabrics like cotton with simple patterns. Gradually, I started contributing to our household expenses. My father is 65 years old and still works in the factory. As a low-income, underprivileged family, we feel trapped in a cycle of poverty, with little hope for improvement or progress.”

"My life is no different from that of any other woman living in poverty in Pakistan," states a 16-year-old girl named Sarah, who is both wretched and heartbroken. She comes from a conservative family in Baluchistan and emphasizes that there are many talented girls involved in sports and non-academic pursuits. The primary issue for women in Baluchistan is their lack of voice and their domination by patriarchal systems. The influence of nawabs and feudal traditions has confined women to the walls of their homes. They remain hidden behind the veil, with no access to education or academic opportunities. Additionally, they are deprived of quality healthcare and social activities. While some families have resisted these harsh feudal traditions and have made efforts to send their daughters to schools and colleges, women in these underdeveloped areas often lack the necessary infrastructure and awareness to showcase their skills and expertise. As a result, they remain suppressed.

Zubaida Anwar, a mother of five, grew up in an environment where women are disempowered and required to wear a white shuttlecock burqa when going outside. She lives in Roshanabad village, near Kandhra, approximately 15 kilometers away from Sukkur. For many years, she felt trapped in this restrictive life until she decided to break free from these chains. After the death of her husband from a heart attack, Zubaida could no longer endure the brutality of her in-laws. She began working in a nearby factory that made patchwork quilts, where she met female workers from a local NGO dedicated to supporting impoverished women. Concerned about her children's bleak future, Zubaida resolved to challenge the outdated customs that held her back. With sheer courage and determination, she entered the office of the Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO) and volunteered as a community worker. The SRSO officials welcomed her warmly and provided her with training. “From that day on, I walked into new light and never looked back,” she said.

After completing her training, Zubaida successfully encouraged many women in her village to speak up for their rights. The modernization of women's roles, fueled by education and social awareness, prompted men in the community to allow their women to pursue education and take on critical roles in community development.

In the social context of Pakistan, women often face low status largely due to a deeply entrenched patriarchal system that views them as property to be easily exploited. Regressive social norms and gender stereotypes continue to hinder women’s progress. Limited job market opportunities, along with social and cultural restrictions, impede their economic and social advancement. However, women in metropolitan areas are increasingly gaining access to education, employment opportunities, and decision-making roles, which contributes to the socio-economic development of society.

Key Areas of Empowerment

There has been a significant change in the status of women in Pakistan. Empowered Pakistani women have broken traditional barriers and are now actively participating in education and skill development. Access to high-quality education has enabled more women to enter professional fields, improve their vocational and digital skills, and acquire expertise in digital marketing, allowing them to join freelancing platforms and online businesses. The advancement of female education has transformed the societal role of women in Pakistan. Female entrepreneurship has flourished, resulting in a surge of startups and small businesses. Many self-reliant and financially independent women, including working mothers, are now supporting themselves while managing family responsibilities.

“We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic..." — Sheryl Sandberg

Women's empowerment in Pakistan has transformed their roles in society by improving access to education and promoting economic initiatives. Strong, empowered women act as catalysts for sustainable development, enhancing family well-being and driving economic innovation. Investing in women's participation not only stimulates economic growth but also necessitates the creation of more inclusive and sustainable development plans. These plans should empower women to speak out against social and economic inequalities, promote gender equality, and support women entrepreneurs, ultimately leading to greater inclusive growth.

 

                                                   Drama Review of Kafeel 

“Mere Humnasheen Mere meherbaan

Mere Dard ki jo Dawa Nahi

Mere Ashk Mein Naseeb Hai

Mujhe Tujh se koi Gila Nahi.”

                                              

Kafeel, a real tear-jerker, the emotional scenes that tear the eyes of many innocent girls suffering in silence, experiencing a toxic marriage. A soul-stirring drama set in the era between 80 and 90s defines the rigid family-oriented traditions and values related to girls' marriages. Written by celebrated writer Umera Ahmed, produced by Fahad Mustafa and Dr. Ali Kazmi, and directed by Meesam Naqvi, the drama has evoked a strong emotional response. A heartfelt narrative with compelling storytelling highlights the consequences of toxic, high-stakes marriages on relationships, particularly parental and child relations. The drama explores the complexities of marriage through the lens of traditional, toxic, societal expectations that force many women to stay in a troubled marriage for the sake of securing the future of their children. Moreover, the drama showcases how the family's financial struggle, emotional abuse, and lack of parental support affect children’s personality, low self-esteem, sense of security, and inner peace.

Starring Sanam Saeed as Zeba, the first episode adds a poetic flair to the storyline. The drama began with Zeba meeting a charming young man at a friend's wedding. A handsome singer named Jamal, the role played by Hasan Khan, found a gold earring that Zeba dropped accidentally at the event. The singer picks it up but does not return it immediately. He returned her at the end of the party along with a special cloth with a note. Zeba, a naive, young, college-going girl having no prior romantic experience with men, simply fell in love with the singer. This pivotal event sets up the central conflict of the play.

Taking on a role as Zeba's mother, Munazzah Arif was depicted as a rigid, traditional 90s-era mother who prioritizes societal reputation over her daughter’s happiness. Instead of supporting her daughter, the mother decided to get Zeba married off to a respectable family. Therefore, she approached her friend Farhana, who wanted to marry her brother Jami to Zeba. While Zeba’s mother instantly accepted the proposal without conferring with other family members about the groom's family background, profile, financial, and social standing.

  

As Jawwad, Zeba's father, learned about Zeba’s proposal, he looked astounded. Zeba was her father’s favorite, and he always encouraged her to study and live a fulfilling life. He would not agree with the decision of Zeba’s wedding in urgency. However, Zeba's father, the veteran actor Kashif Mehmood, was compelled by his wife and mother to accept the proposal.

Zeba develops intense feelings for this singer, named Jami. She tried hard to find the piece of cloth given by Jami that was already hidden by her mother. Ultimately, an innocent girl was subjected to a forced marriage. The drama took a great twist when Zeba discovered that a marriage had taken place with a different man who coincidentally has the same name, Jami (played by Emmad Irfani).

The story centers around Zeba and Jamshed’s incompatible relationship.  The youngest child of the family, Jami, was raised with extreme love and devotion by his parents and siblings. Being spoiled, Jami lived on his brother’s expenses; he was unemployed and too greedy. From demanding a dowry from his wife to keeping a close watch on the monetary gifts Zeba received, the obsessive greed of Jami continued. As in one scenario, Jami demanded brand-new furniture and other gifts, and harshly persuaded Zeba to use her own name in front of her family. Consequently, the relationship between Zeba and Jami remained a partnership of power imbalance, emotional neglect, unmet needs, and suppressed selfhood. 

The plot does not unfold through big revelations but moves with Zeba continuing to endure marital distress and the cruel treatment of Jami. Her marriage to Jamshed never remained stable; the cracks were visible from the beginning. Financial pressure, emotional volatility, and Jamshed’s deep-seated insecurity slowly begin to weaken the bond. Zeba’s love for real Jami withers along with fear and disappointment.

Zeba’s father felt her daughter’s anguish and distress. Moreover, the passive-aggressive behavior of Jami forced Jawwad, Zeba’s father, to make a bold decision to get Zeba divorced and not let her continue to bear a tormenting life with Jami. Meanwhile, Zeba's parents decided to end her marriage, and they found Zeba expecting her first child. Once again, the story twist, Zeba decided to continue her devastating marriage for the child’s security. 

Kafeel drama is now fast-forwarded to Zeba’s 4 kids and their hard, tormenting life with Jami.  Zeba’s father is dead, and still they are facing the same issues, bijli ka bill is not paid, as Jami used the money for his personal expenses.

The drama has now moved into Zeba’s kids’ lives, and how they are surviving under financial crisis and emotional instability. Every episode displays generational trauma. The drama points out how unhealed parents' trauma has passed on to the new generation, subjecting children to adverse and traumatic experiences.

The play reached the tipping point; Zeba finally realized that she regretted wasting years hoping for a change in Jami's behavior. However, her endurance merely strengthens the abuser's control through emotional mistreatment and financial exploitation. Refusing to let her children suffer a dysfunctional life, she lived through, Zeba came up with a difficult decision to file for khula. At last, she decided to get rid of the toxic marriage and start the next chapter enthusiastically. Zeba chose to build a peaceful future for her kids; therefore, she decided to leave Jami's house and relocated into a small, unfurnished house. Her brother helped with the resettlement, transporting furniture and other possessions.

Zeba’s four children, elder son Subok (Aashir Wajahat), and Javeria, the second daughter, played by Nooray Zeeshan. Haya Khan played the Zoya part as the third daughter. Tanya, the youngest daughter, played by Hania Ahmed. The kids are depicted as utterly depressed, yet energetic and hopeful with a new beginning.

Even though the drama is supposed to be set in the 90s, it reflects what is still happening in our society today, how married girls are still suffering in silence, and the trauma children endure. Even if some women take the initiative of getting divorced, they face the stigma of being divorced. Therefore, mostly girls stay in a soul-sucking relationship.

To Catch Up latest episodes of Kafeel drama on ARY Digital. https://bit.ly/arydigitalyt.

 

My Blanket is So Lit

 

My Blanket is So Lit

It all started when I found myself trapped in the elevator after leaving my workplace. This experience left me utterly terrified of lifts. I began to tremble and decided to take the stairs to reach my office on the 4th floor. As I  climbed up, I got shaky, my heart started racing, and my legs felt weakened with each step. This became a daily struggle for me, making it feel like an uphill challenge to achieve my stair-climbing goals. Every day, I find myself wishing for something miraculous to occur, like a change in the office layout, the option to work remotely, or a vacation that seems completely out of reach. Once again feeling disheartened, I tried to concentrate on the task before me. While I was frustrated with the looming challenges of the English language in front of me, I was jolted back to reality by loud cheers coming from my workplace. I caught phrases like “Slay” and “Gas,” which seem to be popular among Gen Z and Alpha kids when they communicate. I assumed these terms might have a trendy context since the literal meaning of the first is rather harsh, and the second can be seen as inappropriate for a confined office setting.

Eventually, I heard HR and the team lead announcing one week of winter break. Putting aside all my “salty” feelings, including panic attacks and elevator phobia, I joined in the celebration. Amidst my deep thinking, a colleague asked me if I had any plans for the holidays. I replied immediately that I would just snuggle in my warm, cozy blanket and dream away, without a care in the world. After hearing this, most of my colleagues seemed to be in awe of my idea. I heard them say, “This is so lit. No cap.” Without waiting to decipher what it meant, I packed up and left.

 At home, I gazed at my blanket with great love. I had been so busy working what seemed like 25 hours a day that I had forgotten how much my old, faithful blanket meant to me. On the nights when I was exhausted after work, it was my blanket that gave me peace and comfort. The 5 hours of sleep that I managed to get every night were because of the calm and soothing effect that my blanket had on me. My blanket is my shining star, it’s an unsung hero! It deserves recognition. I hold my blanket in the highest regard. That night, while I was wondering how to get the world to appreciate the little things in life, my blanket helped me get a nice, relaxed, and peaceful slumber.

“Snuggling under a blanket is the coziest joy."

 I woke up feeling cheerful and refreshed, as happy as a lark. “ No work today! No Gen Alpha words to worry about!” I screamed at the top of my voice. I went back to bed and snuggled in my warm, fuzzy blanket. I began to plan my day with my blanket. What a great idea to start the day with breakfast in bed, sipping hot tea in the comfort of my blanket. It was a cold, chilly December morning after all! Later, I brought chips, cookies, dry fruit, and other munching stuff. You name it, I had it! All this while I was cuddling inside my blanket and reading a book. It was pure bliss!

I felt like getting some beauty sleep when the writer inside me awakened. I opened my laptop and started writing an appreciation note for my blanket, which was as pretty as a picture, helping me achieve my dream of a restful, tranquil holiday. Ultimately, I will be able to share with the world that blankets deserve recognition for their invaluable contributions to humanity.

 Well! My one week of winter break is almost over! I will share with you the formula that I adopted to keep me happy. First and foremost, never wake up when someone is forcing you to. Be determined and go back to sleep.  It’s your life, your rules, and your sleep. On the other hand, if there is an emergency, please do wake up. Next is to appreciate the little things in life that bring you happiness.

 In my case, it is my irresistibly soft, sweet-smelling, plush blanket that feels as smooth as satin, gliding over my skin. As I will be undergoing a hectic work week ahead with just 5 hours of sleep, all I can think of is to remember my mini-vacation from the world, nestled in the softness, with perfect coziness and tender connection.

 I hope you all have developed an emotional attachment to your blanket and felt that swaddling in a cozy blanket brings a moment of perfect peace and ecstasy! 

Final Review of Drama Jama Taqseem

                    

Final Review of Drama Jama Taqseem

“Zindagi ki bhaag daur main, main taqseem karna bhool gaya,

Aur yeh bhi bhool gaya ke taqseem karney se cheezain kum nahin hoteen, barhti hain “.

What beautiful lines! A heartfelt finale that truly touched our hearts.

Jama Taqseem, a compelling drama that depicts the intricacies of relationships within in-law dynamics and joint family structures. The play emphasizes the disparities in power and the conflicts between the two families, which also negatively affected the lives of the newlywed couple.

An engaging drama that quickly captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling and impressive acting. Mawra Hocane plays Laila, a member of a small, educated, and liberal nuclear family. She chose to marry Talha Chahour, who portrays Qais in the drama. Qais is the youngest son in a large extended family that includes his elderly parents, two older brothers with their families, and an eldest sister who is already married and established. Their family adheres to a patriarchal system and strictly upholds traditional family values. The father-in-law, Javed Sheikh, and mother-in-law, Beo Raana Zafar, are staunch believers in conventional family roles. They come across as simple and traditional, emphasizing the importance of a united family unit. Their sincere desire is for their sons to live together.

Following the wedding of Qais and Laila, tensions arose between their families due to differing behaviors and perspectives. Laila's family embraces a modern way of life and values, whereas Qais's family clings to strict customs and values, creating difficulties for educated newlyweds like Laila in adjusting to a toxic environment.  Hats off to the writer for gaslighting the major issues of the joint family system. The author, Sarwat Nazir, a prominent Pakistani writer, effectively depicts the real challenges faced by a new bride amidst a large joint family. The play emphasizes how conservative families with traditional beliefs can create a hellish experience for young married women. Laila, accustomed to a more carefree lifestyle, was taken aback by the conservative attitudes of her in-laws. She constantly faced criticism for her perceived negligence and inability to meet household responsibilities. The lack of privacy, relentless family interference, toxic dynamics, and family politics made her married life more challenging.

As the narrative unfolds, Laila endures manipulation and family politics. She attempts to adapt to a challenging environment, sacrificing her sleep, relaxation, and personal choices, while striving to contribute to household tasks such as making breakfast, washing clothes, and preparing dinner. However, the hostile and uncooperative attitudes of Qais' elder brother’s wives and mother continue to bring Laila heartache and distress.  

The drama authentically portrays sensitive topics such as sexual harassment within a joint family. Zeeshan harassed his cousin, Sidra, during a shared study session. The manipulative sexual actions of Zeeshan were overlooked until Laila brought them to light, which resulted in turmoil and confrontation among family members.

 

The narrative took an unexpected turn when Qais' father unjustly allocated family assets, granting the entire business to one son while disregarding the other. As a result, family ties were severely damaged, leading the two brothers to choose to live apart. Qais' father fell gravely ill and required hospitalization.

Eventually, Qais’ parents moved to Qais' apartment, where Laila's parents were already staying with their daughter. The best scenes in the drama were watching both parents with different values and lifestyles have discussions and disagreements regarding family customs and traditions. The most striking moments depicted the challenges faced by Qais and Laila's parents in navigating modern expectations while maintaining traditional values

The final episode was outstanding; it focuses on reconciliation and emotional growth. The whole family forgave each other’s mistakes and began to move forward with positivity and understanding under the same roof. A blissful culmination to see the whole family united. The ending scenes were marvelous. The director, Ali Hassan,  focuses on creating a nurturing environment that allows families to keep a balance between tradition and personal space and recognize each other’s need for autonomy. The brothers asked forgiveness from their father, a positive that fosters mutual respect, understanding for each other. It leads to a joyful connection that strengthens their relationship. As it was realistically shown how the brothers and sister communicated through WhatsApp.

A compelling narrative that resonates deeply with them. Its thought-provoking themes reflect the life experiences of many viewers, highlighting real-life familial struggles, dynamics, and the harsh truths present in joint families, including the mistreatment of a daughter-in-law.

A poignant production that delivered an emotional closure by emphasizing the significance of family values and family bonding that lead to a harmonious family life. Another aspect highlighted was how a daughter-in-law from an educated and open-minded family positively changes household dynamics.

 

Thanks to the entire team of JaamaTaqseem for a deeply affecting performance! The play will live on in the audience's memory for years.

 Those who missed watching this true-life story can watch complete episodes on  Hum TV's website and YouTube (Hum TV)

Review of Drama Jama Taqseem

 

Review of Drama Jama Taqseem

A compelling drama that depicts the intricacies of relationships within in-law dynamics and joint family structures. The play emphasizes the disparities in power and the conflicts between the two families, which also negatively affected the lives of the newlywed couple.

Jama Taqseem is an engaging drama that quickly captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling and impressive acting. Mawra Hocane plays Laila, a member of a small, educated, and liberal nuclear family. She chose to marry Talha Chahour, who portrays Qais in the drama. Qais is the youngest son in a large extended family that includes his elderly parents, two older brothers with their families, and an eldest sister who is already married and established. Their family adheres to a patriarchal system and strictly upholds traditional family values. The father-in-law, Javed Sheikh, and mother-in-law, Beo Raana Zafar, are staunch believers in conventional family roles. They come across as simple and traditional, emphasizing the importance of a united family unit. Their sincere desire is for their sons to live together.

Following the wedding of Qais and Laila, tensions arose between their families due to differing behaviors and perspectives. Laila's family embraces a modern way of life and values, whereas Qais's family clings to strict customs and values, creating difficulties for educated newlyweds like Laila in adjusting to a toxic environment. The author, Sarwat Nazir, a prominent Pakistani writer, effectively depicts the real challenges faced by a new bride amidst a large joint family. The play emphasizes how conservative families with traditional beliefs can create a hellish experience for young married women. Laila, who was used to a more carefree lifestyle, was taken aback by the conservative attitudes of her in-laws. She constantly faced criticism for her perceived negligence and inability to meet household responsibilities. The lack of privacy, relentless family interference, toxic dynamics, and family politics made her married life more challenging.

As the narrative unfolds, Laila endures manipulation and family politics. She attempts to adapt to a challenging environment, sacrificing her sleep, relaxation, and personal choices, while striving to contribute to household tasks like making breakfast, lunch, washing clothes, and preparing dinner. However, the hostile and uncooperative attitudes of Qais' elder brother’s wives and mother continue to bring Laila heartache and distress.  

The drama authentically portrays sensitive topics such as sexual harassment within a joint family. Zeeshan harassed his cousin, Sidra, during a shared study session. The manipulative sexual actions of Zeeshan were overlooked until Laila brought them to light, which resulted in turmoil and confrontation among family members.

The narrative took an unexpected turn when Qais' father unjustly allocated family assets, granting the entire business to one son while disregarding the other. As a result, family ties were severely damaged, leading the two brothers to choose to live apart. Qais' father fell gravely ill and required hospitalization. Eventually, they relocated to Qais' apartment, where Laila's parents joined them to stay with their daughter. It was fascinating to observe both sets of parents cohabiting, as their discussions and disagreements regarding family customs captured viewers' interest. The most striking moments depicted the challenges faced by parents in navigating modern expectations while maintaining traditional values.

The audience enjoys this poignant drama for its compelling narrative that resonates deeply with them. Its thought-provoking themes reflect the life experiences of many viewers, highlighting real-life familial struggles, dynamics, and the harsh truths present in joint families, including the mistreatment of a daughter-in-law. The strong message conveys that, whether it’s a son or daughter getting married, families should seek a match with similar values, open-mindedness, and a blend of traditional and contemporary ways of living. Regardless of whether it’s a love marriage or an arranged marriage, mismatched values can lead to a distressing married life.

For those who missed watching this true-life story, watch the first episode.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZtt5cjWyqI

Raise your voice, Spread Awareness, And Drive change! To Create a Sustainable Future for Women

 

Raise your voice, Spread Awareness, And Drive change! To Create a Sustainable Future for Women

“The change I want to see is a start-up environment where everyone, regardless of gender and background, feels welcome and safe; where sexual harassment or discrimination will not impede great talent from producing great impact.” - Christine Tsai

Any form of undesirable verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature to hurt a female or violate the dignity of a woman is defined as sexual harassment. High harassment cases have been reported worldwide. According to recent statistics by World Population Review, about 35% of women have experienced different forms of sexual harassment such as physical sexual harassment, verbal sexual harassment, and visual sexual harassment. Some countries have high rates of rape.  A local human rights organization Ain-o-Salish Kendra (ASK) in Bangladesh has speculated that during the year 2021- 2023, 11,682 rape incidents are testified including gang-rapes. In India, the number of rape cases has reached 22,172. While in Pakistan, sexual violence against women including rape and sexual harassment has highly increased. The issue of sexual violence has become a significant issue that needs a concrete solution.

 Global Gender Gap Index, 2024 has issued a recent report highlighting that Pakistan is ranked 145th out of 146 countries which shows the severity of rape issues in various cities. Lahore and Faisalabad have the greatest incidence of violence against women in the year 2023. The highest number of rape cases happened in Faisalabad was 6,624, followed by 728 rape incidents in Lahore. Consequently, the life and dignity of women are not safe as rape cases take place after every 45 minutes.

 It is still challenging to curb this rising menace as women around the world are continuously suffering from sexual assault. For instance, the ruthless rape and murder of a trainee doctor in a government hospital in Kolkata has led to an outpouring of rage and anger in the masses against the persisting sexual abuse and atrocities against females. NGO’s and human rights organizations continue to hold demonstrations, asserting government to seize culprits and the court should give extreme punishment. Moreover, they want the Act should be strictly promulgated to ensure the safety of healthcare practitioners and workers 

Despite that United Nations (U.N.) Millennium Goals have urged all global countries to take initiatives to promote gender equality and women's empowerment, yet two-thirds of the developing world has still not achieved women's equality. Women are constantly facing gender inequality and harassment issues in public places, workplaces, and educational institutes. Condemning the physical abuse towards womenfolk, women organizations across the globe have raised their voices. They believe that severe sexualized violence has reached epidemic proportions. Whether it is rape incidents occurring in a government hospital in Kolkata, India or abduction and rape cases of many teenage girls happening in place of work or educational institutes in Pakistan, molestation, gang rape, and other forms of offensive sexual advances have considerably risen globally.

 Living in a typically male-oriented society in Pakistan, ruthless men consider a woman a symbol of property that can be touched and misused as they like or harass women to fulfill their sexual needs. The offensive behaviors also include intimidation through looks, undesirable gestures, or using discriminatory comments to develop fear and insecurity in young girls.

Causes of Rape 

To know the real causes of the prevalence of rape crime, people should look at the issue from various perspectives. Each rapist has a different behavior and circumstances to commit the crime. For instance, anger rape takes place when a rapist uses brutality to express anger. Their rage behavior hurt the victim.  Power rape refers to an attacker’s offensive behavior who has no intention to harm the victim. Instead, he wants to own a girl sexually. Therefore, he uses force to sexually assault the girl. Another behavior is sadistic rape. The offender uses both sexuality and aggression to abuse a woman. The rapist gets satisfaction from abusing, and humiliating the girl.

Sexual harassment cases such as increasing rape cases in the workplace are terrifying for women. It is normally observed that professional office girls working in different sectors wear fashionable outfits, such as wearing short revealing dresses and properly fitted garments that objectify women's bodies. These glamorous clothes attract men and stimulate them to exhibit aggressive behaviors such as unwelcome sexual advances done through force, threat, or pressure. 

 Gender roles and values are learned at an early age at home, school, and through social environment. Young boys aged 5 to 9 years observe adults' appearances, activities, and behaviors. The harsh behavior of fathers tarnishes their personality and self-esteem. Resultantly, they develop negative traits, gender rigidity, and aggressive behaviors. College students from broken families such as parents living with marital conflicts, divorced or estranged from each other adopt negative stereotypical gender roles. As children internalize the negative behaviors, their personality gets influenced by the atrocious environment they are brought up. Consequently, it leads to adverse effects of stereotyping on their physical and intellectual competence.

The other common reasons observed for a high rate of rate crime are environmental factors such as toxic friendships, unsafe neighborhoods involved with antisocial behavior, and violent acts. Moreover, association with social groups also tends to victimize young boys provoking them towards committing physical abuse with women. Social media sites cause internet-related sex crimes such as physical abuse cases.  A group of male gangsters visit internet sites, including social media where teenage girls openly post their personal information. It includes online profiles, posts, and comments on online sites. The offenders start their interactions with the targeted victims through chat. They do comments on the posts, like and share their posts, and also check friend contact lists. Once, rapists develop familiarity and understanding with the victimized girl, they trap her in meetings. They choose a vulnerable place and use force and violence to sexually assault them.

Sexual assault and related traumas happen due to prevailing social issues. Unemployed young individuals having no income opportunities and social benefits develop dysfunctional behavior including depression and mental disorders. Reducing earning power causes serious implications such as getting involved in antisocial activities including abducting and sexually abusing females.

 

How to Prevent Sexual Assault in Society?

 

  Sexual violence including rape against women has extensively increased. The alarming rate of sexual abuse cases has triggered NGO’s and Women associations to speak up and address the issues on the social media platform. Women's rights organizations have created awareness among women, allowing them to know how to prevent themselves from physical abuse. The initial step is to report the rape case that happened in the workplace, educational institute, or public spaces.

 Regarding the prevention of sexual abuse in the workplace and educational institutions in Pakistan, the HR department and higher authorities have taken necessary initiatives to educate and inform students and employees about harassment behavior.  Female students and staff are encouraged to report harassment cases to HR and the admin department.

 To strongly combat the rape menace, harassment policies have been reviewed regularly by companies and educational institutions. The executives, managers, and employees are educated about the more subtle forms of sexual harassment through harassment training. The program reinforces the organization to adopt a positive approach and engage employees in nurturing a respectful culture in the workplace. The cordial environment allows staff members to understand workplace ethics.

 Women's rights organizations have urged that young girls and especially boys in higher education institutes should be provided with comprehensive sex education. It includes keeping unnecessary physical contact and knowing about maintaining a safe and positive relationship. Teenage girls and boys should be motivated to discuss ethical issues such as sex culture. Engaging in positive and healthy communication about sexuality helps them know their individual identity and sexual interests.

More rigorous strategies have been implemented at workplaces, universities, and colleges and the management has ensured that such unethical behavior will not be tolerated. The culprits will face harsh punishment and heavy charges according to the Harassment Act promulgated by the government of Pakistan.   

 Humanitarian organizations such as the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) have aligned worldwide organizational policies, and practices with United Nations approaches to prevent sexual exploitation against women. OCHA offices at headquarters, regional, and country levels have initiated country-wide advocacy, awareness programs, and other concrete measures to curb the rising sexual violence and discrimination against women.

 Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS)  in association with the UNO protection policy, Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA)   have taken strong initiatives to work together to build a safer aid system for the social well-being of women. The advocacy program includes encouraging community members to share their physical harassment experiences and challenges. The experts provide recommendations to prevent sexual abuse in the workplace. Countrywide campaigns also include organizing webinars, and conferences emphasizing the need to grow awareness in young people regarding sexual assault and adopt strict measures to reduce sexual abuse and harassment incidences.

On the global level, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has developed a policy on the prevention of sexual harassment, abuse, and discrimination. The UNFPA Policy on harassment has established a network of workplace facilitators and partner organizations that address sexual exploitation and abuse across the international level. The advocacy program is currently running in 12 countries. The program expresses the principle of zero tolerance for various crimes, including sexual exploitation and abuse.

 Another initiative is taken by WHO and UN Women with certification from 12 other UN and bilateral agencies. Working in collaboration they have established a strong framework known as RESPECT women. The aim is to prevent physical abuse and violence against women and promote the social and economic well-being of women. The framework supports women from all over the world, providing them with social empowerment and psychosocial support to help them lead a better quality of life.

 To bring radical changes in society, the global states, women's organizations, and NGOs should collaborate and promulgate effective legislation, laws, and policies that impose harsh punishments for adultery and rape. The laws ensure the safety and protection of women against physical assault. Provide support to victimized women by making easy access to legal laws to seek justice.

As physical abuse and rape incidents have become a global issue, the government of Pakistan has taken serious measures to tackle the harassment and rape cases at educational institutions and workplaces. Initiatives have been taken to improve the existing rape laws.  The Women’s Protection Act was earlier reformed, the law reconsidered various factors causing rape and addressed a broader range of sexual offenses. More practical and resourceful legislation is required that prevents physical abuse and brings equitable adjustment of social and economic rights of women in the workplace and society.

 Summing up

There is a dire need to develop awareness in young women and men regarding the causes that lead to physical harassment and rape.  Instead of living in silence and fear, women are required to speak up against the physical violence and harassment they face in the workplace, universities, and colleges.

 Let’s join hands and take strong actions to eliminate physical harassment from workplaces, communities, and institutions.  A strong and resilient role of women's groups and organizations has emerged as a hope for women, encouraging them to raise their voices against social injustice. Moreover, their continuous efforts have urged the government to stop physical harassment in public places and organizations and ensure the safety, and well-being of women.