Sharp rise in violence against women in Pakistan during 2023: report

The Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO) has released a research on reported cases of violence, rape, kidnapping and honor killings against women.

In Punjab in 2023, there were 10,201 reported cases of violence against women, marking an increase of 16% compared to the 8,787 cases in 2022. The report reveals that violence against women has been documented in all districts of the province, with Lahore topping the list at 1464 cases, followed by Sheikhupura (1198) and Kasur (877).

Similarly, rape cases surged in the province, with 6,624 reported cases in 2023, a 12% rise from the 5,890 cases in 2022. Faisalabad recorded the highest number of cases at 728, followed by Lahore (721) and Sargodha (398). Additionally, 626 cases of female abduction were reported in Punjab, with Lahore (136), Faisalabad (30), and Wahari (26) being the most affected areas. There were also 120 reported cases of honor killings, with Rahim Yar Khan (9), Jhang (8), and Rajanpur (8) facing the highest incidence. Furthermore, 20 cases of honor killings were documented, with 19 from Chiniot.

According to the Executive Director of SSDO, incidents of violence against women in Punjab surged by 16% in 2023. Recommendations have been put forth to the government to enforce stricter laws on violence against women and establish protection centers for women.

In Sindh, the report highlights an alarming increase in violence against women during 2023. Approximately 26 women were abducted weekly, an increase from 2022. There were also about 4 reported rape cases per week, and an average of 13 women killed monthly in the name of honor. These figures underscore a pressing issue that demands attention.

In 2023, the number of honor killings in Sindh rose to 136 from 96 in 2022, while kidnapping cases increased to 1500 from 1349, and domestic violence cases to 350 from 346. Additionally, reported cases of rape and sexual assault declined slightly from 200 to 165. Workplace harassment cases decreased from 94 to 73.

The report serves as a wake-up call to the Sindh government and law enforcement agencies to address violence against women effectively. Recommendations include stricter laws, protection centers, and awareness campaigns. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to combatting this issue, and increased reporting of these crimes indicates progress in addressing them.