Experts Warn Gender-Based Violence Threatens Maternal Health in Pakistan

Experts Warn Gender-Based Violence Threatens Maternal Health in Pakistan
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Experts from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Pakistan (SOGP) have expressed deep concern over rising gender-based violence, particularly against female healthcare providers, urging urgent government action, Dawn E-Paper reported.

SOGP President Dr. Rubina Suhail stated that violence, including murder and torture of female doctors, directly impacts maternal health by increasing maternal mortality and morbidity rates. She cited a 2024 report by the Sustainable Social Development Organisation revealing 32,617 cases of gender-based violence nationwide. These included 5,339 rapes, 24,439 kidnappings or abductions, 2,238 domestic violence cases, and 547 honour killings. Punjab recorded the highest number of incidents, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan.

SOGP Secretary General Dr. Shabeen Naz Masood highlighted attacks on female healthcare workers by patient attendants, describing such incidents as demoralizing. She also criticized the media for biased reporting and noted the absence of a helpline for reporting harassment and violence.

Both experts called on the government and judiciary to provide legal protection and psychosocial support for survivors and implement measures to improve women’s status in society.