Pakistan’s Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated that creating a secure and accessible digital environment for women and girls remains a national priority. The statement was shared on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, underscoring the need to make technology a space where women feel protected and supported. She noted that technology offers meaningful progress only when women have confidence that the online world is open and safe for them to learn, communicate and participate. The message draws attention to the growing importance of digital access in everyday life and the responsibility to make that access equitable for all.
In her remarks, Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted that Pakistan is taking steps to ensure women across the country can use digital platforms without fear. This includes efforts aimed at enabling women and girls to fully engage in online spaces and benefit from emerging opportunities linked to the digital ecosystem. She pointed out that violence against women remains a serious social challenge that demands continued focus, especially as digital interactions become more common. The minister stressed that the safety and dignity of women are connected to Pakistan’s development goals, and creating an environment where women feel secure online supports wider national progress. According to her, improving digital participation is not solely a technology matter but also a social commitment to equality, confidence and respect.
She further stated that genuine empowerment is linked to access to education, digital skills and economic opportunities. By strengthening these areas, women are better positioned to contribute to national growth and to protect themselves both online and offline. The growing digital economy in Pakistan creates space for women to learn new skills, explore entrepreneurial paths and seek employment opportunities. The minister emphasized that when women are equipped with knowledge and technological competence, they gain the ability to participate more effectively in the country’s digital transformation. This broader inclusion supports families, communities and long-term economic objectives by encouraging more diverse contributions to the technology sector.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja also emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to address gender-based violence and promote women’s rights. She noted that opening pathways for women in technology forms an essential part of Pakistan’s digital future, as higher participation leads to stronger and more inclusive development outcomes. The focus on bringing more women into the digital space reinforces the importance of creating safe online environments, building skills and ensuring equal access to tools and platforms. With digital connectivity expanding across Pakistan, the minister reiterated that women must be able to take part in this transformation confidently and without barriers. Her message aligns the country’s digital vision with social inclusion, underscoring that a connected Pakistan depends on equal access and safety for every woman and girl.
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