Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a widespread and systematic issue in Pakistan that continues to occur in multiple forms, such as domestic violence, honour killings, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, physical assault, acid attacks, rape, forced marriages, and other similar manifestations. GBV has become an inalienable part of the country’s social structure, clearly reflecting a deep-rooted patriarchal mindset that normalizes violence against girls and women. It is not only a women’s rights issue but also an acute human rights crisis that impacts all layers of society.

According to a report titled “Mapping Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Pakistan 2024” released by the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), around 32,617 GBV-related cases were reported across the country in 2024. At the provincial level, 26,753 GBV cases were reported in Punjab, 3,397 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 1,781 in Sindh, and 398 in Balochistan. These statistics, however, do not genuinely represent the actual figures, as less than 10% of victims seek justice owing to fear, stigma, and lack of institutional trust.

Gender-based violence is both a social and public health enigma, as it affects victims physically, mentally, and emotionally.........

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