The United Nations in Pakistan lauds passage of bills on anti-honour killing and anti-rape

Islamabad, Pakistan – The United Nations (UN) joins people across the country in lauding the Pakistani Government in unanimously approving the much awaited anti-honour killing and anti-rape bills, as a historic success on Thursday. Both bills were originally laid before the Senate in January 2014 and with review, revision and follow-up, have finally made their way to adoption.

“Every year, hundreds of women have their rights violated, are abused physically or sexually, and even killed in the name of honour” said United Nations Resident Coordinator, Neil Buhne, “The crisis of violence against women and harmful traditional practices have often been seen as private matters that are ‘outside’ justice. Passing and implementing effective laws and policies to protect the rights and well-being of survivors and strictly punish perpetrators can provide the foundation for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to end violence against women across the country,” added Mr. Buhne.

Mr. Buhne said the UN System stands ready to assist the Government of Pakistan to address the marginalization and discrimination against women, and provide all possible support to implement measures to strengthen effective implementation, including training of officials who handle cases of violence against women, the establishment of mechanisms for monitoring and impact evaluation as well as accountability, and better coordination.