Islamabad:- On the rise of workplace harassment, Pakistan Human Resource Network (PHRN) organized a workshop at Quaid-e-Azam University in association with Shaheed Bhutto Foundation (SBF) and School of Politics and International Relations (SPIR).
Prominent speakers in the assembly included CEO Shaheed Bhutto Foundation Mr. Asif Khan, FOSPAH Law Officer Mrs. Meher Jami, President of Islamabad High Court Bar Association Mr. Riasat Ali Azad, Mrs. Hifza Bukhari Supreme Court Advocate Mian Zahid Sultan President. Pakistan Human Rights Council and President Senator Farhatullah Babar and Ms. Maria Rafiq Pakistan Human Resource Network.
Asif Khan said, PPP as a party once led by Shaheed Benazir Bhutto always supports the status of women, women themselves fail to protect the dignity of every woman who is a victim of harassment. Unfortunately, in our country today, women’s empowerment is lacking and this situation reinforces the notion that women should stay indoors.
Mrs. Mehr Jami explained the work of FOSPAH, how the organization helps many victims and does not have to pay registration fees or lawyers. Trials can be held online and justice can be served within ninety days, which guarantees the safety and privacy of victims.
Mrs. Hifza Bukhari explained to the audience that not only the law but also society must develop enough maturity to realize the true potential of women without wasting their power in female domination.
Mian Zahid Soltan explained that he feels that a woman works too hard and will burn out on the first day of her work. Instead of enjoying his hard work, the attitude of the people is shocking. He further said that it is the duty of the friends to help the victim and not play the role of a bystander.
Senator Farhatullah Babar of PPP also supports Shahid Benazir’s role in fighting torture and believes in strengthening the morale of citizens. It is a grave injustice that the victims go through and are not helped by the society. First, we need to develop laws for jobs in society, and expand educational institutions that clearly reflect where we stand as an Islamic country.
“Organizations must adopt comprehensive anti-harassment policies, develop inclusive leadership, conduct regular training, establish confidential reporting mechanisms, and provide victim support services,” said Mrs. Maria Rafiq, president of PHRN. She spoke at Safe Spaces: Addressing Harassment in the Workplace on the need to change the culture of victim blaming and empower women to ensure justice.
