District-level Women’s session discusses issues faced by women in Balochistan

QUETTA, Jun 18 (APP): An important meeting of the District-level Women’s Assembly was held under the auspices of Health and Rural Development (HRD) Balochistan on Thursday.

 The meeting was attended by the President, Vice President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker and women councilors from different areas of the district.

The meeting discussed in detail the social, educational, economic and health-related issues being faced by women and girls of Balochistan and presented various recommendations to solve them.

Ms. Samna, while addressing the meeting, said that women have limited access to digital devices and the internet, especially in rural areas, which deprives women of access to online education, employment and information.

She called the digital inclusion of women the need of the hour.

Stressing the importance of economic independence, she said that due to lack of sources of income, women are financially dependent on men, which limits their role in decision-making.  This requires increasing education and employment opportunities.

The meeting also expressed concern about girls’ education. It was reported that many girls are forced to drop out of primary education due to early marriage, poverty, domestic responsibilities and lack of high schools. In addition, the distance to schools in rural areas and the lack of safe transport are also major problems.

While discussing the health sector, the shortage of female doctors and nurses, malnutrition and the difficulties being faced by pregnant women were highlighted. The participants recommended creating more opportunities for medical education for women and running awareness campaigns on balanced diet.

The meeting also discussed in detail the obstacles being faced by women due to early and forced marriages, gender discrimination, violence against women, harassment and traditional thinking.

The speakers stressed the need for effective implementation of the law, public awareness and a strong complaint system for the protection of women.

 Participants also expressed concern over the low representation of women in local decision-making, politics and local government institutions and said that effective participation of women could improve policy-making and development projects.

The meeting also pointed out that due to lack of identity cards, many women are deprived of the right to vote and government facilities, while the effects of climate change, drought and water scarcity are more pronounced on rural women.

At the end of the meeting, the Speaker handed over the chair to the President, who appreciated the participation and suggestions of all participants and said that the relevant institutions have been contacted on the recommendations presented in the past and efforts are underway to resolve the problems of women.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to protect the rights of women and girls of Balochistan, empower them and effectively resolve the problems they face.