Harassment in any form is unacceptable – Regional Head FOSPAH Sabika Shah
Karachi, Jan 28, 2026: Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH), Sindh Regional Office, organized a seminar on “Workplace Harassment” at Jinnah University for Women, Karachi, on Wednesday.
The seminar redefined the concept of harassment, emphasizing that it is not limited to physical misconduct but also includes verbal, digital and psychological abuse. Participants were informed that workplace harassment may manifest as unfair behavior or attitides, discrimination, favoritism, mental pressure and misuse of power rather than friendliness. Issues such as emotional distress, isolation, loss of confidence and fear resulting from harassment were discussed through interactive dialogue.
Keynote speaker Sabika Shah, Regional Head Sindh (FOSPAH), encouraged students to report harassment faced at workplaces, educational institutions, public spaces or within domestic environments. She highlighted that women’s participation in the workforce remains limited to around 10 percent, with many opting for professions perceived as safer, particularly teaching, due to security concerns.
Citing research findings, Ms. Shah stated that nearly 82 percent of women experience harassment in public transport or common spaces. She engaged students on reasons for hiding harassment incidents, including family pressure, fear of character judgment and lack of evidence.
She stressed the importance of awareness, collective action and knowledge of legal rights, urging women not to suffer in silence and constant fear. The session also emphasized that harassment is not gender-specific and may occur through manipulation or discriminatory attitudes, regardless of intent.
Ms. Shah further explained the importance of consent, stating that a “yes” can change into a “no” and must be respected without pressure. A “No” itself is a complete sentence, she mentioned. She concluded by outlining the complaint procedure of FOSPAH and assured participants of institutional support for victims of harassment.
