Public spaces should be safe for everyone, yet countless women continue to face daily threats to their safety and dignity. As we celebrate Women’s Day, it is imperative to shine a light on the persistent challenges women encounter in the real world. From public harassment and workplace discrimination to online abuse, these issues are not only widespread but often deeply embedded in societal structures, making the fight for safety and equality an ongoing struggle. The reality is that women’s safety is not just a women’s issue—it is a societal issue that requires collective action, systemic change, and a commitment to dismantling the structures that perpetuate inequality and violence.
For many women, leaving their homes is an act of courage. Street harassment, ranging from catcalling to physical intimidation, remains one of the most common forms of gender-based violence. A staggering majority of women worldwide report experiencing some form of harassment in public spaces. Whether it’s on public transportation, in parks, or simply walking down the street, women are often subjected to unwanted attention, comments, or even physical contact. Despite its prevalence, legal frameworks to address these issues remain inadequate, leaving many women to navigate these threats alone.
Prerna Shakya, a 22-year-old professional, shared a harrowing experience: “Once, while on a bus, an elderly man tried to inappropriately touch me. I froze, unsure how to react, but a brave woman intervened. She pushed him away and stayed with me until I felt safe.” Shakya expressed her initial helplessness, adding, “It felt like some elderly people, lacking awareness, tried to exploit you. I realized that women need to take action in such situations—something I couldn’t do then but am prepared to do now.”
This incident highlights the importance of bystander intervention and community support. However, it also underscores the need for systemic change, including better enforcement of laws and public awareness campaigns to educate people about the impact of harassment. Women should not have to rely on the bravery of strangers to feel safe in public spaces.
While progress has been made in promoting gender inclusivity, the workplace remains a battleground for many women. Pay inequities, the glass ceiling, and rampant sexual harassment continue to hinder women’s career advancement. Fear of retaliation often silences those who wish to report misconduct, perpetuating a culture of impunity. Many women are forced to endure hostile work environments because they cannot afford to lose their jobs or fear the social stigma associated with speaking out.
Natasha Shrestha (a pseudonym), a student working at a small tile shop, recounted her ordeal: “When I started working here three months ago, the shop owner asked me out for coffee. When I declined, his behavior turned hostile.” She added, “I can’t afford to leave this job due to financial instability, and I fear that complaining would cost me my job. That’s why I don’t want to reveal my name.” Her story is a stark reminder of the countless untold experiences of workplace harassment faced by women.
To address these issues, companies must adopt stricter anti-harassment policies, provide safe channels for reporting misconduct, and foster a culture of accountability. Leadership opportunities for women should be prioritized, and pay equity must be enforced to ensure that women are not disadvantaged in their careers. Legal frameworks that hold companies accountable for gender discrimination and harassment are critical to creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Even in the digital age, the internet, while a platform for empowerment, has become a breeding ground for online harassment. Cyberstalking, non-consensual image sharing, and explicit messages disproportionately target women, undermining their sense of security in virtual spaces. An undergraduate student shared her experience: “I once received explicit images and inappropriate messages from a stranger using a celebrity’s profile picture. It was deeply disturbing and made me realize how vulnerable we are online. I now advise others to be cautious—avoid sharing personal information and be wary of adding strangers on social media.”
Her experience is echoed by countless women who face similar threats in digital spaces. Online harassment not only affects women’s mental health but also restricts their freedom to express themselves and participate fully in the digital world. Experts emphasize the need for stronger penalties for digital harassment and better enforcement of existing laws to protect women’s rights online. Social media platforms must also take responsibility by implementing stricter policies and tools to combat abuse.
Countries around the world have taken steps to address these issues, offering models for reform. In Japan, women-only train cars during peak hours have been introduced to protect women from harassment in crowded trains. Similarly, South Korea has implemented women-only taxis and designated floors in public places like parks to ensure women’s safety. Mexico and India have also introduced women-only transportation options and emergency helplines to provide immediate assistance to those in need.
Technological innovations are also playing a crucial role in enhancing women’s safety. Panic buttons, GPS-tracking safety apps, and AI-driven threat detection systems are empowering women to navigate public spaces with greater confidence. These tools, combined with educational initiatives aimed at shifting societal perceptions of gender equality, are essential in the fight to ensure women’s safety in both physical and digital spaces.
Education is a powerful tool in the fight for gender equality and women’s safety. Laxmi Sharma, Under-secretary of the Law Section at the National Women’s Commission, emphasized the importance of education and community involvement. “Women often hesitate to report harassment, which is why reported cases appear low. Educating parents and communities is essential to raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment for women.”
In rural areas, where girls are often denied access to education, the lack of awareness about women’s rights and safety is particularly concerning. By ensuring that girls receive an education and are informed about their rights, we can empower them to stand up against harassment and discrimination. Parents and community leaders also play a crucial role in challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting gender equality from an early age.
Dinesh Kumar Acharya, Deputy Inspector General of Nepal Police (DIG), noted a decline in reported cases of public harassment, attributing it to the efforts of NGOs and awareness campaigns. “We are working with organizations to raise awareness, including teaching students about ‘good touch’ and ‘bad touch.’ In the 2023/2024 fiscal year, only two cases were reported, which is a positive sign,” he said. However, experts stress the need for stronger penalties for digital harassment and more robust corporate policies to combat workplace discrimination and harassment.
Gita Neupane, a counselor at The Women’s Foundation Nepal, emphasized the importance of legal support. “Many girls experience harassment but are too scared to speak up, which only perpetuates the problem. While we don’t directly handle such cases, we provide legal support to those who seek our help. Every woman has the right to feel safe in public spaces, and authorities must take stricter actions to address this issue.”
