In Pakistan, workplace harassment is not just a personal or social problem. It is also a crime under the law. Still, many people, especially women, do not know their legal rights. Some are afraid to speak up because they fear being blamed, losing their job, or being judged by society.
At White Ribbon Pakistan, we believe that the first step to stop harassment is to create awareness. Every employee and employer must understand what harassment is and what the law says about it.
What is Workplace Harassment?
The Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010 explains harassment as:
Any unwanted behavior of a sexual nature that makes a person uncomfortable at work. This includes touching, talking, writing, or showing something inappropriate.
Some examples are:
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Unwanted touching or body contact
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Dirty jokes or comments
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Constant staring
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Following someone around in the office
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Showing inappropriate pictures or videos
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Offering job benefits in return for personal favors
What Does the Law Say?
The Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010 applies to:
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Government and private offices
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Schools, colleges, and universities
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Non-profit organizations and homes where people are hired to work
The law asks every workplace to:
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Make a special committee to handle complaints
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Put up the law where everyone can see it
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Appoint a person to make sure the law is followed
In 2022, the law was improved to protect all people, not just women. It also now includes online and work-from-home situations.
What are the Punishments?
If someone is found guilty of harassment at the workplace, they can be punished in different ways.
Small punishments include:
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A warning
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Not getting a promotion or salary increase
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Being asked to attend counseling or training
Big punishments include:
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Losing their job
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Paying a fine up to 500,000 Pakistani Rupees
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Being banned from working in certain companies
Also, according to Section 509 of the Pakistan Penal Code:
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A person can be sent to jail for up to three years
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They may have to pay a fine
These punishments are given in addition to what the company decides.
How to File a Complaint
If someone is facing harassment, they can:
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Send a written complaint to the company’s harassment committee
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Contact the Ombudsperson appointed by the government
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File a complaint with the police under Section 509 of the Penal Code
In Punjab, people can visit this website to file complaints:
ombudswoman.punjab.gov.pk
White Ribbon Pakistan’s Message
We at White Ribbon Pakistan ask all workplaces to follow the law properly. Every company must provide a safe and respectful space for women and all employees.
Nobody should have to suffer in silence. Let us work together to stop harassment and make sure every person is treated with respect and fairness.
Workplace safety is not a gift. It is a basic human right.
Need Help or Awareness Training?
Write to us at: info@whiteribbon.org.pk
Call us at: 042 35883570