International Women’s Day is not only an occasion to celebrate the struggles and achievements of women across the world, but also a moment to reflect on the persistent barriers they continue to face. An event organised by the Pakistan Institute of Labour Education and Research (PILER) to mark the day highlighted a crucial issue that affects many working women: the right to work in an environment free from harassment, pressure, and discrimination. While Pakistan has taken important legal steps to protect women in the workplace, the real challenge lies in the effective implementation of these laws.
Workplace harassment is often narrowly interpreted as physical misconduct or explicit sexual advances. In reality, as the speakers at the event emphasised, harassment also includes verbal intimidation, humiliating behaviour, and discriminatory attitudes that create a hostile or offensive work environment. These forms of harassment may be subtle and therefore harder to challenge, but their impact can be equally damaging. The use of foul language, dismissive remarks, exclusion from decision-making, or persistent questioning of a woman’s competence can erode confidence, undermine mental wellbeing, and restrict professional growth.
Pakistan’s “Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010”, which was strengthened through amendments in 2022, provides an important legal framework for safeguarding women’s rights. It requires both public and private organisations to establish three-member inquiry committees to investigate complaints and ensure accountability. In addition, Section 509 of the Pakistan Penal Code prescribes penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for acts that insult a woman’s modesty. However, the existence of laws alone is not enough. Implementation remains a serious concern. Many organisations either fail to establish functional inquiry committees or treat them as mere formalities. In numerous cases, women hesitate to report harassment due to fear of retaliation, social stigma, or lack of trust in the complaint process. Without proper awareness, training, and oversight, even well-crafted legislation can lose its effectiveness. It is imperative, therefore, that strict and urgent measures be taken to ensure institutional compliance with the law, and that complaint mechanisms remain transparent, credible, and accessible.
Another important point highlighted by the participants was that women’s empowerment should not be viewed simply as a “women’s issue.” It is fundamentally a human rights issue and an essential element of social and economic development. Society as a whole benefits when women get equal opportunities to work, contribute, and lead. Workplaces that uphold dignity and equality tend to be more productive, creative, and cooperative. Conversely, harassment and discrimination not only undermine women’s potential but also hinder broader national progress. Greater awareness and education are therefore essential to encourage women to speak up, and to promote respectful professional conduct among both men and women.
A just and progressive society cannot be built without ensuring that women enjoy equal rights, dignity, and safety at the workplace. Only when women can work without fear or discrimination can the nation truly thrive and progress.
