Call for increased women's role in political process.

QUETTA -- The representatives of civil society, female activists and political leaders have called for increased participation of women in the political process and said it was the need of the hour to stop their exploitation in a male-dominated society.

They expressed these views at a seminar organised by the Aurat Foundation in collaboration with the South Asia Partnership Pakistan and Balochistan Commission on the Status of Women on Sunday.

The session was presided over by Fauzia Shaheen, the chairperson of the Balochistan Commission on Status of Women. The event was attended by National Commission for Human Rights Member Farkhanda Aurangzeb, Director Women Rights Shazia Riaz, Deputy Director Election Commission of Pakistan Syed Ehsan Shah, Balochistan CM's Coordinator and BAP leader Shaina Khan, Aurat Foundation's Alauddin Khilji and leaders of political parties, including Fatima Mengal, Abida Baloch and Shumaila Ismail.

They spoke at length about the issues faced by women and said their exploitation will continue until society's behaviour and attitude were changed.

This change would only be possible if women are given equal rights, opportunities and representation in the political process at all levels and their meaningful participation is ensured in decision-making, the speakers said.

'Pakistani women have proved their ability whenever they are given a chance,' Ms Shaheen said, adding that women have performed in all national institutions, including assemblies, the Senate and cabinets.

She said without the participation of women, Pakistan will...