PESHAWAR: Chairperson Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (KPCSW), while addressing the launch ceremony of 16 Days of Activism 2025 at the University of Peshawar, emphasised the urgent need to combat the rising threat of digital violence against women and girls.
She noted that digital violence is among the fastest-growing forms of abuse worldwide, and ensuring digital safety has become essential to achieving gender equality.
The Chairperson warned that online abuse often escalates into real-world harm, including coercion and physical violence. Women with public visibility – such as activists, journalists, politicians, human rights defenders, and young women – are particularly targeted, she said.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chairperson highlighted the mandate of KPCSW, which includes reviewing laws and policies, proposing reforms, and advocating for women’s empowerment across the public and private sectors. She noted that the Commission continues to collaborate with government departments, civil society, and academic institutions to promote women’s rights and eliminate discrimination.
She underscored the challenges that make digital abuse difficult to curb, including weak regulatory frameworks, a lack of accountability, and limited support systems for survivors. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, she added, is recognising these gaps and prioritising policy measures to address them.
Calling for collective action, the Chairperson stressed the need to create a safe and enabling environment for women in all spheres. She urged more women to join professional fields and participate in politics, contributing to socio-economic development and legislative reforms aimed at ending violence against women and girls.
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