Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010
The Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010 (PAWWWA) is Pakistan’s pioneering statutory framework that criminalises harassment of women in any professional setting, whether in the workplace or in a public place. The Act seeks to secure a safe and respectful environment for women, safeguarding their dignity and professional reputation.
- Key provisions:
- Defines harassment as any undesired verbal, sexual, or other conduct that causes psychological distress or humiliation and is related to gender.
- Mandates employers to establish a complaint‑handling mechanism and to provide training on respectful workplace practices.
- Imposes a statutory obligation on the employer to act upon reasonable complaints and to prevent discriminatory practices.
- Provides criminal liability for offence, with potential prison terms of up to one year and/or fines up to Rs. 100,000.
- Includes the removal of obstacles from victims’ path to justice via the provision of speedy trial provisions and a special code for reporting.
FOSPAH – The Role of the Federal Office on Social Protection and Human Rights (FOSPAH)
FOSPAH is the central authority established under the PAWWWA. Its mandate is comprehensive: from awareness‑raising to enforcement and judicial advocacy. Here’s how FOSPAH ensures justice for victims:
- Awareness & Outreach: Regular campaigns, workshops, and online resources help women recognize their rights and understand the reporting process.
- Complaint Intake & Investigation: 24/7 helplines and online portals allow women to lodge complaints discreetly. Trained investigators sift through evidence, interview stakeholders, and corroborate claims.
- Legal Support: FOSPAH provides pro‑bono legal representation and ensures court proceedings are accessible.
- Monitoring & Guidance to Employers: FOSPAH issues guidelines, conducts audits, and offers training modules to employers to comply with the Act.
- Advocacy & Policy Advisory: Through research and policy recommendations, FOSPAH collaborates with ministries to refine protective measures and amend legislation.
Success Stories & Impact Metrics
Since its inception, FOSPAH has processed over 10,000 complaints from 2010‑2024, with a 70% rate of successful resolutions either via restitution or conviction of offenders. In 2022 alone, 30 educational institutions reported improved compliance scores after targeted FOSPAH interventions.
How Women Can Benefit from the Act & FOSPAH’s Services
- Secure immediate stop‑gap measures like restraining orders.
- Access counselling and psychological support services provided by partner NGOs.
- Participate in skill‑upgrading workshops that emphasise workplace rights.
- Tap into FOSPAH‑sponsored legal clinics for counsel and litigation.
Getting Started: Filing a Complaint
- Contact FOSPAH’s helpline or visit the official portal at FOSPAH website.
- Submit the complaint form with supporting evidence (e.g., chat logs, witnesses’ statements).
- FOSPAH will schedule an investigation and keep the complainant informed through each step.
Conclusion
The Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, coupled with the proactive stance of FOSPAH, has transformed the landscape of workplace safety for women in Pakistan. Together, they instil a culture of accountability, pave the way for equitable professional spaces, and reinforce women’s right to work free from fear and discrimination.
