Unfortunately, in Pakistan, extensive lack of awareness and multiple misconceptions exist regarding the issue of domestic violence against women.

Most women who experience violence suffer silently in agony, they don't realize that their silence reinforces the abuser and in the long run, their silence is also reinforcing the society to normalize violence.

Even in the 21st century, domestic violence against women is said to be endemic in our culture. In general, female domestic violence is considered a private family issue with no adequate focus on assessment and intervention. Thousands of girls have to face abuse and oppression on a regular basis due to the violation of set social and cultural norms and religious self-righteous standards in our society. Girls who do speak against such violence are being frowned upon in our culture.

Sadly, the practice of domestic insult is found in all social classes in our nation. A few days ago, a Pakistani journalist was arrested for allegedly killing his wife. This incident instigated the human rights activists nationwide and has raised a very serious question of women protection in our culture during the pandemic. World Health Organization (WHO) has already shed light on the expected increase in domestic abuse during the pandemic. According to the UN health agency:

Stress, the disruption of social and protective networks, loss of income and decreased access to services all can exacerbate the risk of violence for women.

In present circumstances, there is a dire need to look after those who are or might be, substantial victims of domestic abuse. Due to the pandemic, the victims of abuse have nowhere to go. So if you're one of them or if you know someone who is facing abuse in their family, in neighbors, or in the workplace, kindly report it to 1043 which is Punjab Women's Toll-Free Helpline. Help them before it's too late.