International Women's Day is being observed in Pakistan like many other parts of the world on Tuesday (today) with a pledge to continue efforts for women empowerment and giving them due status in society. Functions, seminars, walks and other programmes will be organised across the country to highlight the problems being faced women.
In Lahore, different NGOs will organise functions to highlight the plight of women. Punjab University's Department of Gender Studies will organise a walk. The walk will start from the department and conclude in front of VC Office, New Campus. Further, the department will also organise Women's Day Gala at the department.
International Women's Day is dedicated toward global celebration of economic, political, and social achievements of women. The idea of celebrating the day was first proposed during the start of the 20th century amid rapid industrialisation and economic expansion that gave rise to world-wide protests over poor working conditions. However, women have been struggling not only for their own rights, but have also made significant contributions towards national progress, the struggle for democracy and provision of justice for all.
According to a report of Aurat Foundation, 7,733 cases of violence against women were reported across the country in 2008. Out of these, 4,360 cases were registered in Punjab. Around 22.8 percent of these cases were cases of abduction, 19.6 percent were cases of murder, 10.91 percent cases were of physical injuries, 7.49 percent were cases of suicide, 6.1 percent were cases of honour killing, 5.68 percent were cases of sexual assault, and 2.42 were other cases.
Official sources said the government was taking steps in accordance with comprehensive policy so that women could play their role in country's development. "The government is taking steps to ensure that Pakistani women are not only emancipated from exploitation of all forms, but are also empowered in the true sense. Efforts are being made for social, economic, legal and political empowerment of women.
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