ISLAMABAD: An anti-rape crisis cell (ARCC) was launched at Polyclinic Hospital in Islamabad representing a “unified effort” to combat sexual violence and empower survivors, according to the United Nations (UN).
Pakistan has experienced a significant increase in rape cases in recent years, with many incidents going unreported due to social stigma and fear of retaliation. The Pakistan National Commission on the Status of Women reported over 11,000 cases of rape in 2021 alone.
In August 2023, Pakistan’s first anti-rape crisis cell was launched at the Karachi Police Surgeon’s Office in Sindh province, followed by another at Nishtar Hospital in Punjab province. Activists and experts have called for greater support and stronger laws for survivors to address this issue.
“The federal government Polyclinic Hospital, with technical support from UN Women and funding from the US Embassy’s Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), has launched the ARCC at Polyclinic Hospital in Islamabad,” stated UN Women.
These facilities will serve as essential resource centers, providing medical and psychological support, legal aid, and counseling to survivors. The ARCC will operate round the clock with “robust security measures” in place.
The launch event was attended by Dr. Naushin Farooq, head of Polyclinic Hospital’s Gynecology department; Saman Ahsan of UN Women; Carrie Basnight, a US embassy official; Dr. Sophia Younas, Deputy Director at the National Health Services Ministry; and Senator Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson of the Anti-Rape Special Committee, among others.
“ARCCs serve as essential pillars in our collective efforts to combat sexual violence and ensure the rights and well-being of rape survivors,” said Ahsan. “By providing comprehensive services and support, these cells play a pivotal role in empowering survivors to reclaim their lives and seek justice.”
Basnight praised the Pakistani government’s commitment to advocating for the protection of survivor rights. “I commend the federal government and UN Women for establishing the ARCC,” she said. “Sexual violence is not only a local issue but a global challenge that requires collective action.”
Dr. Younas emphasized the Pakistani government’s dedication to eliminating sexual violence and offering extensive support to survivors. “As we gather to inaugurate Islamabad’s ARCC, we mark a crucial milestone in our unwavering pursuit of justice and safety for all citizens,” she said. “The creation of this crisis cell highlights the government’s dedication and the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in our ongoing fight against sexual violence.”
The UN Women noted that the launch of the facility in Islamabad represents a “significant advancement in the quest for justice and support” for survivors of sexual assault.
