Anti-Harassment Committees Mandated Across Pakistan’s Medical Institutions

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has issued a directive requiring all medical and dental colleges across Pakistan to establish dedicated anti-harassment committees. The announcement, reported by The News International, marks a substantial step forward in addressing workplace misconduct within medical institutions.

Swift Investigation Protocol

According to the new mandate, these specialized committees will be tasked with conducting thorough investigations into harassment complaints, with a requirement to complete their findings within a 10-day timeframe. This streamlined approach demonstrates a commitment to prompt resolution of reported incidents.

Comprehensive Definition of Workplace Harassment

PMDC President Prof Rizwan Taj provided an extensive definition of workplace harassment, emphasizing its broad scope. “Workplace harassment goes beyond sexual harassment and demands for favours; it encompasses a wide range of discrimination and mistreatment,” he explained. The definition includes gender-based discrimination, verbal harassment, physical intimidation, psychological harassment, ethnic and disability-based discrimination, age-related and religious harassment, and abuse of authority.

Leadership Perspective

Speaking about the initiative’s significance, Prof Taj stated, “This initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen anti-harassment policies and protect individuals in educational and professional settings.” He expressed optimism about the impact of these committees, noting that they would “play an essential role in promoting accountability and strengthening preventive measures, and encourage individuals to report harassment without fear.”

Creating a Supportive Environment

The initiative aims to establish a more supportive and respectful atmosphere within medical and dental institutions. According to the PMDC, these committees will not only investigate complaints but also focus on raising awareness about respectful conduct and implementing preventive measures. The comprehensive approach reflects a recognition of the need to address harassment at both reactive and preventive levels.

The implementation of these committees represents a significant step forward in addressing workplace harassment within Pakistan’s medical education sector, with potential implications for institutional culture and student welfare.