Harassment in the workplace is pervasive in Pakistan, and women who pursue nontraditional careers face acute challenges and even violence. The case of law student Khadija Siddiqi illustrates the barriers for women in accessing traditionally male industries. Siddiqi was stabbed twenty-three times by a classmate, who was at first sentenced to seven years in prison but was later acquitted by a higher court. Siddiqi says the decision shows the overwhelming “stigma against women in the justice system.” Without basic protection from violence, women cannot fully participate in professional workplaces, Pakistani advocates say. “When women do speak up about harassment, our courts and law enforcement do not support them,” says activist Nighat Dad. “And then men say, ‘See, I told you, these spaces are not safe for you. You sit at home within the four walls of our house and then you are secure.’ If women speak up, they will lose the freedom and liberation of work.”

Source: Council on Foreign Relations