Islamabad:On National Women’s Day, National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) pays tribute to the historic struggle of Pakistani women for equality, dignity, and fundamental rights, and recognises their invaluable contributions to nation-building, economic growth, and social development, says a press release.
Commemorating this important day, Chairperson NCSW Ume Laila Azhar expressed grave concern over the continued surge in violence against women, including so-called honour killings and the alarming rise in technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). She stated that despite legislative advancements, meaningful equality for women in Pakistan remains far from being fully realised.
“Pakistani women have shown extraordinary resilience and strength in the face of structural and societal barriers. Yet, many remain deprived of access to quality education, vocational training, digital literacy, and economic opportunities necessary to thrive in today’s world,” she said.
The Chairperson highlighted that early and child marriages continue to rob girls of their fundamental rights - limiting their physical development, education, and professional growth. She emphasised that empowering women through affirmative action, inclusive policies, and equal access to resources is essential for Pakistan’s sustainable progress.
NCSW strongly urges the Governments of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to immediately approve and enact legislation setting 18 years as the minimum age of marriage, ensuring uniform protection of girls across Pakistan.
