National Assembly Passes Resolution on Workplace Harassment and Discrimination

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly of Pakistan on Friday adopted a significant resolution emphasizing that workplace harassment extends beyond sexual misconduct to include intimidation, humiliation, and gender-based discrimination.

Presented by MNA Dr Shahida Rehmani, secretary of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, the resolution reaffirms Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity, equality, and rights of all individuals against various forms of workplace harassment, aligning with Articles 14 and 25 of the Constitution, which protect individual dignity and ensure equality among citizens.

The resolution highlights that workplace harassment can manifest through non-sexual means, including degrading treatment, hostile behavior, and the misuse of authority. This comprehensive approach aims to create a safer and more equitable work environment for all, reflecting a broader understanding of harassment in the workplace.

As a next step, the resolution reinforces the legislative framework established by the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, and calls for continued efforts to implement and enforce these protections effectively.