LAHORE: Punjab University Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mahmood Saleem has said that respect for human rights is essential for establishing a peaceful and civilised society.
He was addressing an awareness seminar on the topic of “Human Rights and Prevention of Gender-Based Violence,” organised by the Punjab University Human Rights Chair in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Rights, Islamabad, Pakistan on Friday.
On this occasion, Ministry of Human Rights Director General Muhammad Arshad, Women Rights Wing Director Shabana Nawaz, Punjab Ministry of Human Rights Senior Deputy Director Muhammad Yousaf, Human Rights Chair Director Prof Dr Abida Ashraf, BNU Dean Prof Dr Bushra Hameedur Rehman, Dr Muhammad Arshad from the Department of Social Work, as well as a large number of faculty members and students were present.
Addressing the seminar, Prof Saleem said that everyone should strive to ensure that their actions do not cause harm to others. He emphasised that a society could not progress without peace. He added that organising such events to provide training and awareness and prevent unfortunate incidents was a welcome initiative.DG Arshad said that recognising the dignity and worth of every individual was fundamental to human rights. He stated that no one had the right to inflict violence on another person, regardless of their family background, colour, race, or religion. He pointed out that although Pakistan had laws protecting human rights, the main challenge lay in their effective implementation. He stressed that resources should be utilised to prevent unfortunate incidents.
He also observed that freedom of expression must be exercised while respecting the rights of others.
Shabana Nawaz delivered a presentation on human rights, covering various issues, including anti-rape legislation, child rights, domestic violence, sexual harassment, and other human rights concerns.
She emphasised that both men and women should be aware of their rights and said that society must change its attitudes and behaviours to ensure respect for the rights of others.
Muhammad Yousaf said that human rights education was the need of the hour. He noted that Pakistan introduced its first National Action Plan for Human Rights in 2016. He also appreciated the contributions of the Human Rights Chair established at the PU.
Prof Bushra said that female students who approached the anti-harassment committee were highly confident because they knew that an institution existed to protect their rights. She stated that Pakistani women were no less capable than anyone else and that wearing or not wearing a hijab was a woman’s personal right. She emphasised that raising one’s voice to claim one’s rights was essential so that society could take steps to ensure protection.
Prof Abida assured the participants that the PU Human Rights Chair would continue to play its role in raising awareness about human rights. She particularly advised female students not to ignore even seemingly minor issues. She also highlighted the important role the media could play in addressing these challenges.
Dr Arshad said that gender-based violence was a serious issue and that even after reporting such incidents, victims often lacked confidence that they would receive justice. He stressed that students must use their knowledge and digital platforms to help prevent these issues. He added that students should act as ambassadors of positive behavioural change in society.
The seminar concluded with a question-and-answer session.
Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2026
