Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Faisalabad (Agenzia Fides) – Guarantee healthcare and safety for working women; adopt a code of behaviour of “gender justice” to safeguard women from injustice and abuse; guarantee safe workplaces free of abuse, harassment and intimidation; guarantee maternity care and leave for women workers. These requests were put to the government by various associations which promote respect for the rights of women, on the occasion of a National Women’s Day”, held 12 February in Faisalabad.
Fides learned that the event brought together a large number of women of different communities and religions. The aim of the day was to increase awareness and sensitivity in society at large and in institutions for the protection of women’s rights. The event was organised by the Association of Women for Awareness and Motivation” (AWAM), in collaboration with other NGOs.
Zarfishan Nasir, women’s rights activist said: “February 12 stands as a mile stone in the history of pro-women’s movements in Pakistan, and it is celebrated as Women’s Day to commemorate a group of women who lifted their voices to speak out against policies and legislation imposed by the military dictator, general Zia-ul-Haq, and suffered the consequences”.
The directress of Awam, Nazia Sardar, recalled: “women workers are paid less than men: it is urgently necessary to guarantee equality of salaries and guarantee mother-child care centres and kindergartens in work places”.
According to Shazia George, a Christian and a women’s rights activist, “it is necessary to increase awareness and action regarding the promotion of respect for women’s rights and also to implement national and international measures to safeguard the rights of working women.”. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 17/2/2015)
