ASIA/PAKISTAN - Violence Against Women - Brief Overview

Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – Violence against women in Pakistan, especially against Christian workers, is a phenomenon that is ascertained, but often met with indifference or impunity.
According to the Pakistani NGO “Alliance Against Sexual Harassment,” 91% of domestic workers say they have suffered abuse or sexual violence. The young people belonging to religious minorities are particularly vulnerable," notes the NGO. According to the organization, each year the complaints are numerous and often imply a kidnapping of the workers who are often torn from their Christian families and forced to marry wealthy businessmen and convert to Islam.
In 2009, the recorded cases of violence against women (Christian or not) increased by 13%, notes the Foundation “Aurat,” active for over 20 years in defense of women in Pakistan. Many cases remain unknown because family, intimidated, not make complaints. According to data compiled by the Foundation, in 2009 there were 1,052 murders of women, 71 cases of rape with homicide, 352 rapes, 265 gang rapes, 1,452 cases of torture, and 1,198 kidnappings.
Some of these cases even imply young girls. Social discrimination against religious minorities is widespread, notes the "Justice and Peace Commission" of the Pakistani Bishops' Conference. In particular, there are many abuses against women perpetrated by Islamic militant groups, but also by members of the middle class. The Christian churches and associations defending the rights of minorities are asking the government to take serious steps to ensure the freedom and rights of women in Pakistan. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 13/10/2010)