The Pakistan Citizenship Act, 2001 enabled the children of Pakistani women to acquire citizenship irrespective of their father’s nationality.

The Protection and Empowerment of Women Bill, October 2003 protects women’s legal and financial rights and promotes women’s empowerment. The bill repeals Hudood Ordinances and condemns gender discrimination.

The Criminal Law Act (on honour crimes), October 2004 notifies punishment for the offence of murders committed in the name of honour.

The Protection of Women Act, December 2006 prevents the exploitation of women; this Act ensures to provide liberation and protection to women against mistreatment and abuse of law.

The Criminal Law Act (on sexual harassment), November 2009 defines the offence of sexual harassment stating that malfeasance “shall be punished with imprisonment for three years maximum or with fine up to Rs500,000 or both”.

The Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, March 2010 provides women an equal opportunity to earn their livelihood in a safe working environment which is free of harassment, abuse and intimidation.

The Prevention of Anti-Women Practices Bill, December 2011 declares practices like acid attack, forced marriage and so-called ‘honour killings’ as serious crimes, and offers protection for victims and severe legal actions for criminals.

Acid Control and Acid Crimes Prevention Bill, December 2011 describes the state’s responsibility of punishing offenders and supporting the victims of gender-based crime.

The Women in Distress and Detention Fund Bill, December 2011 provides legal and financial assistance to women suffering in jails.

The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, February 2012 emphasises empowerment of women and elimination of gender-based and other physical or psychological abuse against women and adopting zero tolerance for violence against them.

—Compiled by Marium Naeem Khan