Pakistan

Background

Because of the economic crisis which started in October 2007 and the very conservative position of the judicial system—which the new president elected in June 2008 has not yet challenged—the situation for women in Pakistan has worsened considerably. In Punjab province, however, some social reforms have been undertaken which have enabled projects, like the one which MdM is working on, to be developed with a view to setting up new refuges (Dar Ul Amans) for women affected by violence.

Karte Pakistan

Supporting women affected by domestic violence

»ACTIVITIES
The project that MdM has developed in partnership with the Punjabi government aims to provide comprehensive care to women affected by violence and their children. This takes place in three centres where women have access to medical care, psychosocial support and legal advice. The centres also organise professional training sessions and offer socio-educational activities. The project also plans to train local staff on issues relating to prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of women affected by violence, as well as to raise awareness of this problem within Pakistani civil society.
»OUTLOOK
In 2009, the programme will cover 35 centres. MdM will mainly concentrate on building capacity within local personnel working in these centres. The programme will also continue to encourage civil society to become involved in the existing work, and—with the aim of reducing stigmatisation—will try to sensitise public opinion to the plight of these women.