LAHORE: Punjab Commission on the Status of Women has launched 16-Days Activism Campaign to end violence against women and girls in all over the Punjab.

Each year, from November 25th to December 10th, the United Nations, international agencies, Governments across the globe, non-governmental organizations and community-based organizations working for the promotion of women’s rights, partake in an international campaign to end violence against women and girls.

The 16 Days of Activism Campaign begins on 25th November, International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on 10thDecember, International Human Rights Day.

In this connection, a press conference held in the office of Commissioner Lahore Division, Chairperson PCSW, Fauzia Viqar stated that as a society and as a nation, we must fight to end discrimination against women and ensure that women are protected adequately.

Answering a question, PCSW Chairperson said PCSW still has concerns as government departments are not cooperating in sharing authentic data on violence against women.

She says PCSW is determined to compile third report of Punjab Gender Parity Report.

According to data shared, in 2016 7313 reported cases of violence against women as compared to 6505 in 2015 which shows violence against women increased in Punjab.   

Fauzia Viqar further highlighted that PCSW is operating through its Board Members and Divisional Coordinators in all divisions of Punjab to give suppressed women a platform to voice their grievances.

PCSW operates a toll-free helpline 1043 in order to provide information about women's rights and services, and registers complaints in case of lack of response or inaction by government functionaries in Punjab.

Commissioner Lahore Division Abdullah Khan Sumbal need of the hour is to adopt progressive approach for human development.

It is pertinent to mention here that during 16 Days of Activism this year; PCSW aims to sensitize key stakeholders to undertake concrete measures to end violence against women and girls in Punjab.

For this purpose, PCSW has organized a series of events in all divisions of Punjab, to raise awareness and rally support for elimination of gender-based violence.

During the period of 16 days, awareness sessions on women's rights and laws for the protection of women have been planned in district-level colleges for boys and girls.

PCSW will support White Ribbon's nation-wide "Million Men March" to engage men and boys.

In Lahore, an art competition has been organized, where talented young girls from Hamza Foundation for Deaf Children will make artwork and posters on the theme of ‘Leave No One Behind’ in the movement to end violence against women and girls.

A number of activities have been planned at the Transitional Home for Women in Lahore, which include a tableau performance by residents, poster competition, and awareness sessions on Breast Cancer as well as Women Economic Empowerment.

Awareness and information sharing sessions will also be held at Punjab University, Lahore College for Women University and Kinnaird College for Women. Member PCSW Lahore Division Umm e Laila along with PCSW official was present at the moment.