Introduction to FOSPAH
2010
Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010
In a society where systemic inequalities and cultural norms have long silenced voices, especially those of women, the Government of Pakistan took a significant step toward justice and equality to address workplace harassment by enacting the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, on March 9, 2010. This important law not only acknowledged the widespread issue of harassment at work but also created a strong legal and institutional framework to help build safer, more respectful workplaces for everyone.
2011
Establishment of FOSPAH
Following the enactment of the law, the Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) was established in 2011 as an autonomous quasi-judicial body. Since then, it has provided a trusted platform where individuals can file complaints of workplace harassment and seek justice, while also promoting accountability and dignity in workplaces across the country. Under the 2010 Act, FOSPAH has the authority to hear and decide complaints. It also ensures that all public and private organizations set up Internal Inquiry Committees to deal with complaints internally. Organizations that fail to comply with this legal requirement face fines, making it clear that ignoring the law is not an option.
2020
Enforcement of Women’s Property Rights Act, 2020
In 2020, FOSPAH’s responsibilities expanded further with the Enforcement of Women’s Property Rights Act, 2020. This law empowered the Ombudsperson to resolve cases related to women’s inheritance and property rights in the Islamabad Capital Territory. The goal is to ensure that women can claim what is rightfully theirs without facing threats, pressure, or denial.
2022
Amendment to the 2010 Act
Another important development came in 2022, when FOSPAH’s mandate was extended to include gender-based discrimination. This change recognized that workplace injustices can go beyond harassment and include issues like unequal pay, biased hiring, and unfair treatment based on gender. With this broader scope, FOSPAH reaffirmed its commitment to fair and equal treatment for all.
Today
Driving Change
In 2020, FOSPAH’s responsibilities expanded further with the Enforcement of Women’s Property Rights Act, 2020. This law empowered the Ombudsperson to resolve cases related to women’s inheritance and property rights in the Islamabad Capital Territory. The goal is to ensure that women can claim what is rightfully theirs without facing threats, pressure, or denial.
Mission & Vision
Vision
A Pakistan where every workplace and community is safe, inclusive, and just, that is free from harassment, fear, discrimination, and the systemic denial of women's property and inheritance rights.
Mission
To safeguard individuals from workplace harassment and gender-based discrimination, and to ensure women's rightful access to property by raising awareness, empowering action, ensuring redress, and promoting legal literacy through effective implementation of the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, and the Enforcement of Women's Property Rights Act, 2020.