20 September 2006

On Friday, 22 September, US President Bush will meet Pakistan’s President Musharraf. High on the agenda for the meeting will be women’s rights and the Pakistan government’s decision to back down on its attempt to repeal the Hudood Ordinances, a form of sharia law that penalises rape victims.

Last week the Pakistan government announced that it would no longer seek to repeal the Ordinances, instead suggesting a number of amendments. Along with other women’s rights groups, ActionAid dismissed such proposals, saying only a total repeal of the laws would be satisfactory.

Alongside other campaigners and women’s rights groups, ActionAid is taking part in a protest in Islamabad today (Wednesday, 20 September).

Dr Rubina Saigol, head of ActionAid Pakistan said:

"We demand justice for the women who have suffered and been falsely imprisoned over the 27 years the Hudood Ordinances have been in place. These laws are responsible for violating the rights of thousands of poor women.  

"Women’s rights are non-negotiable - we want the laws repealed without further delay. It is within President Musharraf’s power to take action. It is up to the international community to make it clear that half measures are not acceptable."

The Hudood Ordinances were introduced to Pakistan by General Zia in 1979. Under these laws many women have been falsely imprisoned for adultery and face the possible punishment of death by stoning. In cases of rape, women must produce four Muslim male witnesses who are willing to testify on their behalf. Pregnancy is considered proof of consensual sex even when it is the result of rape.

Women have been jailed after going to the police and naming their rapists. Most of the women who fall foul of these laws are too poor to afford lawyers or bail. ActionAid Pakistan provides legal advice and support to women who are charged with violating the laws.