Where Faith Meets Justice: A Call to End Gender Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations in Pakistan, impacting women, girls, boys, and transgender persons across all segments of society. As the world marks the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, faith communities in Pakistan stand at a crucial intersection of moral influence, spiritual authority, and community engagement. With more than 95% of Pakistan’s population identifying with a religion, faith leaders and communities have a unique responsibility and opportunity to challenge harmful norms, amplify voices for justice, and promote a culture of dignity and equality rooted in sacred teachings.

Across traditions, faith teachings uphold values of compassion, justice, respect, and the inherent dignity of every human being. These ethical anchors give religious leaders immense credibility when they speak out against violence. In many communities, the mosque, church, or temple is not only a place of worship but a center of learning, mediation, and community life. Therefore, faith institutions can play a transformative role in shifting mindsets and influencing social behavior.

Musa Shahbaz, a Christian youth leader from Lahore, shared:

“When pastors talk about ending violence against women, people listen differently. It is not just a social message; it becomes a moral responsibility. We need more of our religious leaders to speak with courage.”

Likewise, Muslim clerics, Hindu pandits, and Sikh granthis can shape narratives that promote protection, equality, and respect. Faith communities are trusted spaces where families seek guidance on marriage, conflict resolution, and relationships, making them essential partners in prevention efforts.

 
One of the biggest challenges in addressing GBV in Pakistan is the culture of silence rooted in shame, stigma, and misinterpretation of religious teachings. Faith leaders can help dismantle these barriers by:

• Publicly condemning domestic violence, child marriage, honor killings, and sexual abuse.
• Correcting harmful cultural interpretations that justify abuse.
• Promoting theological reflections that advance the dignity of women and girls.
• Offering spiritual and pastoral support to survivors.

Rev. Samuel Massey, a Presbyterian priest, emphasized:

“Violence has no place in the Gospel.  Jesus elevated the status of women and protected those who were vulnerable. The Church must follow His example, not just in words, but in action.”

Similarly, Wajhat Batool, a young Muslim woman participating in a church-led interfaith youth dialogue, shared:

“When our ulema and pastors sit together and speak about women’s safety, it sends a powerful message. It shows that GBV is not a cultural issue; it is a moral crisis that concerns all of us.”

Young people in Pakistan, full of energy, creativity, and deep spirituality, are emerging as powerful voices in the fight against GBV. They use social media, storytelling, art, and activism to challenge gender stereotypes and create safer communities.

Adish Gill, a university student, noted:

“Faith communities often underestimate the role of youth. We want to be included. We want to challenge harmful norms, teach our peers, and promote a faith that stands for justice.”

Faith-based youth groups, Sunday schools, madrassas, and youth fellowships can integrate discussions on equality, empathy, and respectful relationships. Empowering youth with leadership roles and platforms to advocate for gender justice strengthens the collective fight against GBV.

Faith communities can also contribute by creating safe spaces for healing and support. Churches and mosques can collaborate with local civil society organizations to:

• Provide confidential counseling.
• Offer referrals to shelters, legal aid, and medical services.
• Conduct workshops on GBV awareness, mental health, and family harmony.
• Train clergy and faith-based counselors on survivor-centered responses.

Kiran, a young woman who attended a church-run support group in Lahore, shared:

“For the first time, I felt heard. My spiritual counselor helped me understand that staying silent was not God’s will; my life mattered. My safety mattered.”

GBV affects all communities, regardless of faith. The 16 Days of Activism is a powerful moment for interfaith collaboration where Christians, Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and others unite to speak out against violence. Joint sermons, community walks, youth campaigns, and public declarations can amplify the message of zero tolerance.

A Hindu faith leader from Punjab shared:

“When we stand together, our message becomes stronger. Violence against women is not a minority or majority issue; it is a human issue. Our sacred scriptures teach us to protect the vulnerable.”

 
Faith communities carry a profound responsibility to uphold justice, peace, and human dignity. Reducing GBV is not merely a development priority; it is a spiritual obligation. The 16 Days of Activism reminds us that silence protects the abuser, while courage protects the victim.

Maria, as one young Christian woman eloquently put it:

“If the Church does not stand with the oppressed, then who will? Faith should give us the strength to break chains, not accept them.”

The role of faith communities in reducing gender-based violence in Pakistan is indispensable. By speaking out, educating communities, empowering youth, supporting survivors, and promoting interfaith unity, religious institutions can help build a Pakistan where every woman and girl is safe, valued, and free. These 16 Days of Activism are a call to action, not just for organizations, but for every believer, every leader, and every community of faith.