Pakistan actress Ayesha Omar contemplates departing from the country due to prevailing economic conditions and concerns regarding women’s safety in the nation.
Expressing her sentiments during a podcast, she articulated, “I don’t feel secure here. It’s a basic human need to step outside for fresh air, to walk or cycle freely. But why can’t I?”
She emphasized that during the COVID-19 lockdown, it was the only time when women felt relatively safe outside.
However, in Karachi, she experiences stress and apprehension, a sentiment shared by many women.
Omar highlighted the unique fears women face in Pakistan, expressing the belief that men can’t fully comprehend these experiences.
She recounted feeling safer during her college days in Lahore, where she used to travel by bus. In contrast, she revealed having been mugged twice in Karachi.
The actress lamented the absence of freedom and safety for women in Pakistan, expressing concerns about the constant fear of abduction, assault, or robbery while simply walking. She stressed the need for these fundamental human needs in the country.
Adding to her concerns, Omar noted that even within the confines of one’s home, safety feels compromised. While acknowledging that crime exists globally, she expressed frustration that harassment prevents her from freely visiting parks in Pakistan.
Despite these challenges, she affirmed her love for Pakistan, acknowledging that the country has given her everything.
However, she disclosed that her brother has already moved abroad to Denmark, and her mother intends to follow suit, indicating a growing trend within her own family of considering relocation.
