Punjab Women Protection Authority Hosts Event on Safeguarding Women’s and Children’s Human and Digital Rights

International News Report
By Farzana Chaudhry — Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: The Punjab Women Protection Authority (PWPA) held a special event titled “Human and Digital Rights of Women and Children: Protecting Against Cyber Violence in Punjab” at its Lahore head office, marking the conclusion of this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. The campaign’s theme for 2025, “Digital Violence is Real Violence,” underscored the increasing urgency to combat online abuse.

The program featured a panel discussion on creating safe digital spaces for women and children, with experts from multiple sectors sharing insights, recommendations, and best practices. Amna Butt, internationally recognized visual artist and founder of The Art Room, also participated, highlighting the role of creativity in raising awareness and promoting positive social change.

Addressing attendees, PWPA Chairperson Hina Parvez Butt emphasized the serious impact of digital abuse, noting that online violence is not virtual or harmless, but directly affects human dignity, mental health, and daily life. She stressed that PWPA is taking active measures to protect women and children both online and offline, and praised District Women Protection Officers (DWPOs) across Punjab for their dedication, prompt responses, and support in matters such as cyber harassment, domestic violence, and legal assistance.

PWPA Director General Kulsoom Saqib highlighted the growing threats of blackmail, harassment, and cyberstalking. She stated that the authority provides victims with immediate legal assistance, digital safety guidance, technical support, and psychological counseling. Saqib emphasized that protecting women and children from cyber violence requires collaboration among parents, educational institutions, social media platforms, and government agencies.

The event was attended by government officials, students, civil society representatives, and digital safety experts, reinforcing a collective commitment to combating cyber violence and ensuring the safety of vulnerable groups in Punjab.

This initiative underscores Pakistan’s growing focus on digital rights and proactive measures to safeguard women and children in both physical and online environments.