Digital Violence Is Real Violence: Balochistan Government and UN Launch 16-Day Campaign Against Gender-Based Abuse

**Quetta:** The Government of Balochistan, in collaboration with United Nations agencies, inaugurated the global *16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence* campaign in Quetta. This year’s theme focused on **“The Role of Women Service Providers Against Cybercrime and Online Harassment — Ending Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”**

Participants expressed deep concern over the rising trend of online gender-based violence across Pakistan and emphasized the urgent need for stronger laws, effective governance, and technology-driven solutions to ensure the safety of women and girls in digital spaces. Speakers noted that with Pakistan rapidly moving toward digitalization, threats such as cyberstalking, online harassment, misinformation, identity theft, and AI-enabled abuse are becoming increasingly serious.

Chief Guest and Balochistan Education Minister **Raheela Hameed Khan Durrani** stated that violence has changed in form, and institutions must adapt accordingly, stressing that *digital violence is also real violence*.

UN Women Deputy Country Representative **Jackie Keetnoti** highlighted that digital safety is no longer a secondary concern but a fundamental part of women’s rights and freedoms. Balochistan Health Minister **Bakht Mohammad Kakar** added that the provincial government is strengthening awareness, protection, and reporting mechanisms.

The event also featured a panel discussion with experts from the police, FIA, and civil society. It concluded with participants signing a digital commitment wall and releasing orange balloons into the sky—symbolizing a united pledge that violence against women in any form is unacceptable.