EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PROTECTION AGAINST HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE ACT, 2016: EVIDENCE FROM HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS OF QUETTA

Abstract

This study, using a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, evaluates the experience of Higher Education Institutions of Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan's Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act 2016 (PAHWWA Act). Data were collected through a structured questionnaire for the quantitative component of study with 94 academic staff and administrative staff from seven public and private HEIs; qualitative data were elicited through open-ended survey questions to 32 purposively selected participants. Chi-square tests, Mann–Whitney U analyses, and binary logistic regression were performed for descriptive and quantitative data, and systematic thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke (2006) was employed on qualitative questionnaire items. The results point to a real theoretical and documented discrepancy between the formal existence of the Act and its substantial implementation. While 93.6% are nominally aware, reporting of harassment cases is only 9.8%, piles inquiry committees function/ are known to exist in only 29.8% and proper enforcement of penalties as per respondents was only 5.3%. Almost universally culture and social barriers operate: 100.0% say that fear of damaging reputation inhibits reporting, 97.9% report that cultural norms result in not reporting whilst 89.4% report that patriarchal dominance is a major influencing factor. The experience of harassment more than once was a powerful predictor of more negative perceptions overall on every dimension measure of Act efficacy (Mann-Whitney U, all p <. 01). Binary logistic regression indicated that perceived adequacy of protection was the only statistically significant predictor of perceived workplace safety (OR = 6.565, 95% CI [2.021, 21.327], p =. 002). Six qualitative themes shed light on the structural, cultural and institution mechanisms underpinning these figures. The paper argues for multi-layered reform agenda including mandatory sensitization, independent committee of inquiry, and institutional accountability with periodic audits of their driving the act, easily accessible reporting mechanism and a culturally sensitive and contextually specific policy initiative to turn the PAHWWA Act into lived experience for women in the higher education sector of Quetta so that the legislative intent may be enforced in letter and spirit.