Ensuring Women’s Safety in Public Spaces: A Growing Concern in Pakistan’s Urban Landscape

Islamabad:The safety of women in public spaces has become a critical issue in Pakistan’s rapidly changing urban environment. This problem is intertwined with social justice, economic opportunities, and basic human rights. A glaring example of this is the fact that 78% of women in Karachi have reported experiencing sexual harassment or insecurity in public spaces, highlighting a significant challenge. This situation severely limits women’s mobility and their participation in public life.

**Complex Issue of Urban Security**

The obstacles women face in accessing public spaces are not limited to physical constraints. In urban centers like Karachi, women encounter daily issues such as poor lighting, insufficient public restrooms, and a lack of security measures. These problems are not just about lacking amenities but are also the result of a societal mindset that has historically kept women away from public spaces. The situation is even more severe in public transport, where women face the constant threat of harassment during their daily commutes.

**Technology and Innovation: A Source of Change**

In response to these challenges, various measures are being taken, including the use of technology to enhance women’s safety. The Punjab government, in collaboration with several institutions, has introduced a Women Safety Smartphone Application, which provides women with awareness of their legal rights and the opportunity to report harassment incidents. This technology serves as an effective tool for women to safeguard their rights in public spaces.

**Infrastructure and Policy Role**

Ensuring the safety of public spaces requires comprehensive efforts in urban planning and policy implementation. Research indicates that developing gender-sensitive infrastructure is crucial, such as well-lit streets, safe public transport, and accessible restrooms. An example of such planning is the Punjab government’s decision to incorporate separate, transparent seating spaces for women in the Bus Rapid Transit system, which highlights how thoughtful design can enhance women’s safety.

**Social Change**

Transforming public spaces is not just about infrastructure; it also requires a change in societal attitudes. Movements like ‘Girls at Dhabas’ are striving to enable women to access local eateries and food establishments, challenging deep-seated traditional norms and acting as a source of social change.

**Legal Framework and Implementation**

Recent legislation to address women’s safety is encouraging. The Sexual Harassment Bill and the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence Bill provide protection for women in public spaces and workplaces. However, the real challenge lies in the implementation of these laws. Data from the Federal Ombudsman’s Secretariat show that the number of harassment cases is alarming, pointing to the gap between legislation and its enforcement.

**The Way Forward: A Holistic Strategy**

To make these efforts successful, coordinated actions are required. First, there is an urgent need for a national policy that makes public spaces safer and more women-friendly. Second, educational campaigns are necessary to change male and boys’ attitudes towards women’s safety. Third, law enforcement agencies and public service providers need better training to effectively handle women’s complaints.

**Conclusion**

Making public spaces safe for women in Pakistan’s urban centers is a complex but achievable goal. It requires the collaboration of government bodies, civil society, and public cooperation. As middle-class women increasingly challenge traditional gender roles and demand equal participation in public life, a ray of hope emerges. However, this movement must include women from all social strata so that everyone can benefit from the right to safe and unrestricted movement.

Creating safe public spaces is not just about infrastructure or policy; it is a commitment to recognizing and safeguarding every woman’s right to free movement and full participation in public life.