In Pakistan, despite strong laws and policies to combat Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), there is still a significant gap in support for survivors. While many initiatives have been launched, the relief, rehabilitation, and reintegration of these survivors remain challenging. State-run shelters, which are supposed to provide a safe haven, face numerous issues that affect their ability to serve those in need effectively.

To address these challenges, the National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR) and UN Women collaborated on a crucial needs assessment. This study, conducted in partnership with the Aurat Foundation during 2018-2019 and updated in 2023, aimed to understand the difficulties faced by state-run shelters, their staff, and the survivors they support. The assessment covered seven Dar-ul-Amans (DUAs) and two Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women’s Crisis Centres (SBBWCC) across Pakistan’s four provinces and Islamabad Capital Territory.

The research utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods to gather insights from a variety of sources, including government officials, shelter staff, service providers, civil society organizations, and the residents themselves. The findings were clear: many state-run shelters are under-resourced and lack the capacity to meet the diverse needs of survivors. Critical services like legal aid, counseling, and vocational training are often missing or insufficient. Additionally, poor infrastructure, lack of proper equipment, and a restrictive, prison-like atmosphere further hinder the effectiveness of these shelters.

However, the study also identified some good practices that could be expanded or replicated to improve the situation. These insights will be vital in planning future interventions, filling the existing gaps, and ultimately strengthening the capacity of state-run shelters to better serve survivors of violence.

At Trust in Jesus Foundation, we believe that every survivor deserves not only safety but also the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and support. By addressing these challenges and enhancing the capacity of state-run shelters, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.