International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women

LAHORE: The Lahore College for Women University (LCWU) celebrated the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2014 in collaboration with United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women also known as UNWOMEN on Tuesday. LCWU Vice Chancellor Dr Sabiha Mansoor, wife of the Punjab governor Parveen Sarwar, Justice (r) Naisra Javed Iqbal, Punjab Ombudsman Chairperson Mira Phailbus, renowned artist Muneeza Hashmi, Fauza Tariq of UNWOMEN, faculty member of LCWU and students were also present on occasion. The panellists were of the view that violence against women impacts on, and impedes, progress in many areas, including poverty eradication, combating HIV/AIDS, and peace and security, and this act is not inevitable.

They added that 35 percent of women and girls globally experience some form of physical and or sexual violence in their lifetime with up to seven in 10 women facing this abuse in some countries. While addressing on occasion, Dr Sabiha Mansoor said that the event aimed at celebrating the achievements of Pakistani women including women right activists, women working in NGOs and other fields. The theme of the day was “Orange your neighbourhood” to raise awareness and trigger action to end the violence against women and girls. Taking to media, Parveen Sarwar said that everyone has a responsibility to prevent and end violence against women and girls, starting by challenging the culture of discrimination that allows it to continue. She said that our religion is best protector of women rights. Women Institute of Leadership and Learning (WILL) director Dr Sara Shahid said that her institute represents the second pillar of LCWU’s vision 2020. It comprises the gender studies as well as skill development and women empowerment. She also discussed about the 25A act of right of education. (Courtesy by dailytimes.com.pk)