A seminar focusing on the challenges faced by women lawyers and the improvement of professional working conditions was organized under the auspices of the Provincial Ombudsman Sindh. The event was hosted by Justice (R) Shahnawaz Tariq, while Sindh Minister for Home and Law Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar attended as the chief guest.
The seminar featured detailed discussions on workplace harassment, discrimination, and professional barriers faced by women lawyers. Participants presented practical recommendations at legal, institutional, and policy levels to ensure a safe and respectful professional environment for women in the legal field.
Addressing the gathering, Lanjar said that the Pakistan Peoples Party has consistently advocated for women’s rights and protection. He noted that Benazir Bhutto, the first woman Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Muslim world, continues to serve as a role model for women. He also highlighted the role of Asifa Bhutto Zardari in raising her voice for women’s representation and rights at the national level.
The minister emphasized that effective legislation is not possible without the inclusion of women lawyers, adding that recommendations from the seminar would be presented in policy-making forums for practical implementation. He also indicated that legislation regarding reserved seats for women in bar councils, including those in Karachi, as well as representation in the Pakistan Bar Council, is under consideration.
Lanjar further stressed the need for at least one female member in the Judicial Commission to promote gender balance in the judicial system. He called for the establishment of women’s desks in all government institutions to address complaints of harassment and discrimination promptly, noting that steps are already being taken within the police department to promote women officers and enhance their professional growth.
At the conclusion of the seminar, speakers reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating workplace harassment and ensuring effective implementation of the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace law. They also highlighted ongoing challenges faced by women in courts, bar councils, and public and private institutions, emphasizing the need for greater representation of women in policy-making bodies and a positive attitude toward female candidates in bar council elections.
Justice (R) Shahnawaz Tariq termed the seminar a positive initiative and stressed that collective efforts are required to eliminate discrimination against women, adding that principles of equality and justice are deeply rooted in societal and religious values.
