From Fear to Strength: A Desire to Address Gender-Based Violence in Pakistan

Growing up in a small town in Pakistan, I became acutely aware of the silence that surrounds issues like gender-based violence. Conversations about abuse or harassment were often hushed, and hidden under the weight of societal norms and cultural expectations. This silence, I soon realized, was not just a lack of conversation—it was a barrier to justice and healing.

The desire to address this silence has been growing in me, especially after learning about the struggles of women in my community. One incident that particularly impacted me was hearing about a close friend, Meher, who faced immense pressure from her family to marry at a young age. When she chose to pursue her education instead, she was subjected to abuse and isolation. Though this story is all too common in many parts of Pakistan, seeing someone I care about endure such hardship awakened a strong sense of urgency in me.

While I have not yet been part of a formal campaign or initiative, I have been deeply moved by the stories of survivors and the pressing need for support systems for those facing gender-based violence. The challenges of speaking out against such violence in Pakistan are immense—there is vulnerability, fear, and social stigma attached to challenging the status quo. But I firmly believe that solidarity and collective action are key to creating lasting change.

I envision a future where I can actively contribute to the fight against gender-based violence. Whether through working with survivors, supporting shelters, or advocating for education and awareness, I hope to be part of a movement that empowers women, breaks the silence, and provides a safe space for those who have been harmed.

My goal is to raise awareness about this issue and find ways to support victims, whether through community outreach, education, or collaboration with organizations already working in this field. Though my journey has just begun, I am determined to help amplify the voices of those affected by gender-based violence and push for a future where no woman is forced to endure violence in silence.

Pakistan is a society where patriarchy dominates, and it’s common to see women being defamed and silenced. It's time to break these myths, stereotypes, and discriminatory practices. Our ancestors did not teach us these norms; it is the culture and societal constructs that shaped them. Let’s empower girls to challenge and change these harmful traditions!