A Qualitative Study of Women’s Harassment at Public Transport and Workplaces in Quetta, Balochistan

Abstract

Women around the world are subjected to many types of abuse in both public and private spaces, including verbal, physical and emotional harassment, and harassment in the workplace and in educational institutions (Henning et al., 2017). This is a widespread issue that negatively impacts on women's mental health, career development, and lives. Despite greater awareness, harassment is still underreported, with many women afraid of social stigma and retaliation (Sojo et al., 2016). Harassment is equally prevalent in Pakistan, where women suffer in various environments such as public transport, workplaces and learning facilities. Cultural norms and the absence of adequate legal frameworks often dissuade women from reporting, putting them at risk of continued abuse. These societal
pressures do not allow them to ask for help or take action against harassment. The study sought to understand the nature, extent and effects of harassment of women in various public spaces, as well as workplaces and educational institutions in Quetta, Balochistan. A purposive sampling approach was used to select 18 women from multiple groups, including women using public transportation,
working women, and university attendees for a qualitative study. It is worth mentioning that the results showed that all participants faced verbal and nonverbal harassment in these circumstances. Societal pressure and fear of reputational damage meant that, according to the study, many women did not report these incidents. The impact of the harassment resulted in severe psychological, emotional, and physical consequences for the participants which hindered their work, mental well-being, and career advancements.