Hina Pervez Butt, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority, highlighted the importance of empowering women in strengthening society during a panel discussion on ending gender-based violence.

According to a report by Urdu Point, the event, organized by the US Consulate and the Punjab Women Protection Authority, saw US Consul General Kristen Hawkins stress that gender-based violence is a human rights issue. She emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to create safer communities and the use of technology for reporting and preventing such violence.

The Chairperson of Punjab Women Protection Authority stated that improving the performance of Women Protection Centers and involving the Department of Social Welfare and the community are critical in eliminating violence against women.

She assured that the Punjab Women Protection Authority is providing full legal assistance to women, with the 1173 helpline available 24/7 for support. ASP Sheher Bano Naqvi also reinforced the police’s zero-tolerance policy on violence cases, stressing the importance of media in raising awareness about women’s rights.

At the event, Christine Hawkins, the US Consul General, stated that gender-based violence is a human rights issue. She emphasized the significance of public and private sector partnerships in establishing safer societies. Additionally, she highlighted the need to focus on using technology for reporting and preventing gender-based violence.