Gender-Based Violence in Pakistan: A Data-Driven Look at a National Crisis
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a widespread and systematic issue in Pakistan that continues to occur in multiple forms, such as domestic violence, honour killings, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, physical assault, acid attacks, rape, forced marriages, and other similar manifestations. GBV has become an inalienable part of the country’s social structure, clearly reflecting a deep-rooted patriarchal mindset that normalizes violence against girls and women. It is not only a women’s rights issue but also an acute human rights crisis that impacts all layers of society.
According to a report titled “Mapping Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Pakistan 2024” released by the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), around 32,617 GBV-related cases were reported across the country in 2024. At the provincial level, 26,753 GBV cases were reported in Punjab, 3,397 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 1,781 in Sindh, and 398 in Balochistan. These statistics, however, do not genuinely represent the actual figures, as less than 10% of victims seek justice owing to fear, stigma, and lack of institutional trust.
Gender-based violence is both a social and public health enigma, as it affects victims physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ergo, GBV should be viewed as a public health emergency and classified as a national priority. On one hand, extensive institutional apathy and implicit societal acceptance of violence against women persist; on the other hand, conviction rates remain extremely low—only 0.5% for rape cases, 0.5% for honour killings, and 1.3% for domestic violence. Weak police investigations and feeble judicial proceedings further demoralize victims from pursuing justice.
It is the prime responsibility of Parliament to enact effective legislation and pass anti-discriminatory laws to tackle GBV. Sadly, male parliamentarians often block proposals presented by their female counterparts, demonstrating dominance instead of cooperation. Politicians rarely take gender-based violence seriously, betraying the women of the country through political indifference. Pakistan’s future will remain grim if it continues to marginalize half of its population.
There is a dire need to enhance law enforcement capacity and recruit more police officers to handle GBV cases sensibly and empathetically. Police and judicial training should be compulsory to ensure sensitivity and fairness while dealing with survivors. Moreover, the lack of authentic and accurate data on gender-based violence further delays effective policymaking and timely implementation.
Awareness campaigns must be launched to counter patriarchal customs that fuel violence and force victims into silence. Education is the most essential and powerful instrument to combat these beliefs. Many men still consider domestic violence their natural right, and women who endure it silently are deemed virtuous, while those who resist are labelled rebellious.
This mindset is alarmingly dangerous and must be altered through a cultural shift. There is a paramount need for a nationwide cultural revolution aimed at transforming gender-biased behaviours, mending patriarchal attitudes, and changing patronizing perceptions toward women. Such a revolution is the need of the hour to reshape existing norms, customs, and behaviours and to eradicate the institutional roots of patriarchy.
The digital sphere has also become unsafe for women. Around 90% of harassment complaints lodged with the FIA are filed by women; 70% of female students experience online harassment, and 45% of working women face online abuse. Violence against women now extends from the physical to the digital realm, necessitating immediate cyber safety and digital awareness programmes for girls and women.
Survivors of gender-based violence often receive little psychological, legal, or financial support. The country urgently needs more helplines and counselling services. Addressing GBV requires a comprehensive approach—one that includes educational awareness, gender-inclusive media advocacy, and strict enforcement mechanisms. Ending gender-based violence is indispensable to creating a fair and inclusive society where women and girls can breathe freely, live without fear, and remain liberated from discrimination.
The greatest symbol of a civilized and progressive society is how it treats its women—recognizing them as complete and equal human beings. Pakistan cannot become civilized or progress unless and until its women are protected from gender-based discrimination. It is high time to move beyond rhetoric, end the culture of silence, dismantle impunity, and build a society founded on equality and respect for all.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial stance, policies, or official position of The Spine Times.
