Pakistan’s HRFP Calls for Gender Justice and Equality on International Women’s Day 2025

Faisalabad, Pakistan – Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP), in collaboration with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD), marked International Women’s Day 2025 with a strong call for gender justice, equality, and systemic change. Under the UN theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” the event gathered activists, policymakers, and community leaders to address the persistent inequalities faced by women in Pakistan.

A Call for Systemic Change

Held at Vision Hall in Faisalabad, the event emphasized the urgent need to integrate gender equality into all aspects of society, aligning with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through their project, “Human Rights Documentation, Fact Findings & Advocacy for the Marginalized,” HRFP and TFD highlighted the fundamental role of gender equality in achieving sustainable progress.

HRFP President Naveed Walter reaffirmed that gender equality is a basic human right and a crucial factor for economic and social growth. However, he acknowledged the numerous barriers faced by Pakistani women, including occupational segregation, wage gaps, and limited access to education and healthcare. He stressed that deep-rooted societal norms continue to hinder women’s participation in decision-making processes.

Challenges for Minority Women

Walter also shed light on the unique struggles of women from religious minorities, particularly Christian and Hindu communities. He noted the rising cases of abductions, forced conversions, and forced marriages among marginalized groups. “Women in Pakistan, especially those from religious minorities, face physical, psychological, and verbal abuse,” Walter stated. “The justice system’s inefficiencies, unsafe workplaces, and religious influences in governance further worsen their plight.”

Voices from Women Leaders

Several female activists and professionals, including Nusrat Samuel, Naseem Haroon, Rehana Farooq, Sadaf Shadman, Mehak Saleem, Nida Naeem, and Minahil Dawood, shared their perspectives on gender-based violence and workplace insecurity. They highlighted the lack of reporting due to cultural stigmas, ineffective legal protections, and fear of retaliation.

Male allies also joined the conversation, with speakers like Raja Thomas, Ejaz Ghauri, John Victor, James Lal, and Manzoor Anthony advocating for women’s economic empowerment. They called for increased female representation in leadership roles, business, STEM fields, and sustainable agriculture. They also stressed the importance of fostering creativity among women in arts and sports to promote inclusivity.

HRFP’s Commitment to Action

HRFP reinforced its ongoing commitment to supporting victims of human rights violations through its REAT Helpline (0800-09494), a toll-free service providing immediate assistance. Since 2013, this helpline has been instrumental in addressing cases of violence against women and religious minorities. In 2024 alone, HRFP received 1,198 calls, with the majority concerning gender-based violence.

The event concluded with a strong message urging policymakers, civil society organizations, and the international community to intensify efforts to protect women’s rights. HRFP and TFD stressed that achieving gender equality requires legal reforms, stronger protections, and a societal shift toward inclusivity.

As Pakistan continues to battle gender disparities, initiatives like these highlight the urgent need for action. Structural reforms, advocacy, and community support remain the foundation for a more just and equitable future for all women and girls in Pakistan.