International Human Rights Day observed

Several organisations organised seminars, symposiums and walks to mark 67th International Human Rights Day on Thursday with a resolve to continue efforts for promoting tolerance and protection of human rights. Speakers in various functions voiced their concerns over women and their status in Pakistan, calling for empowering them to bring about a positive change in society. The Punjab Commission on Status of Women and the White Ribbon Campaign Pakistan held the seminar on "Women's rights and empowerment" at the Lahore College for Women University.
Speakers admitted that although there are good laws being introduced by the Punjab government, there is still lack of awareness among women at all levels about their legal rights. Chairperson PCSW said, "There is an increasing recognition of the various types of violence against women in Pakistan. This recognition is manifest in measures taken by the Punjab government to promote women's economic, social and legal empowerment."
Chairperson PCSW also highlighted plans of the commission to monitor implementation of laws, raising awareness of rights and remedies and to develop gender indicators for monitoring recently adopted 2030 Development Agenda for Sustainable Development in Punjab.
Chief Executive Aftab referred to a legal literacy campaign being run by the White Ribbon and Punjab Women Commission to make women aware of their basic legal rights and remedies available in law for victims of violence. He also urged legislators for stronger pro-women legislation, and its implementation across all levels. SHO Bushra Aziz talked about the role of the police in ending violence against women. "The police are the main stakeholder in preventing violence and serving victims with justice. It is a wrong perception that the police are involved in violation of women rights," she said.
Punjab Additional Advocate General Asma Hamid talked about the legal process for women to access legal remedies available in law for victims of violence against women. She mentioned various laws introduced by both federal and provincial level, adding that the laws are available for women protection; however, women must be aware how to be benefited from them.
Punjab Medico Legal head surgeon Waseem Haider highlighted the need, importance and requirements of medico legal evidence and forensics. He pointed out that there are only few women medico legal officers across the Punjab, and this sometimes becomes a hindrance in serving justice to the victims. He urged young girls to join Police department and become doctor to serve as women medico legal officers. Women Institute of Learning and Leadership Director Sarah Shahid was of the view that it was important that young girls were aware of their legal rights, so they can stop others from violating their rights.
Member of the Punjab Assembly Shunila Ruth referred to new legislation done by her assembly in terms of ending violence against women, saying there are several laws in process, as well.