Aga Khan University's research shows that 70% of female surgeons in Pakistan have faced some form of workplace harassment or discrimination at the workplace. 

Federal Ombudsperson, Ms. Fauzia Viqar, led a crucial meeting with representatives from the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination Islamabad, Pakistan Medical and Dental Council, Poly Clinic, National Institutes of Health Pakistan (NIH) and Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, (PIMS), Islamabad to address the challenges faced by female healthcare workers in Pakistan.

The discussion zeroed in on the urgent need for Anti-Harassment Committees, stronger staff training on harassment laws, and safe, supportive facilities for female healthcare workers.

The Ministry of Health pledged to establish Anti-Harassment Committees across all healthcare institutions, display codes of conduct in every facility, and launch targeted trainings and awareness sessions to ensure every healthcare professional feels safe, respected, and empowered.