Part 9/12:

The region most affected is the North-West Frontier areas of Pakistan, home to the Pashtun community, where cultural norms sometimes normalize or overlook the underlying abuse. These regions are marked by a combination of tribal laws, weak state institutions, and widespread poverty.

The façade of tradition, combined with social taboos, leaves victims without recourse or justice. Many are silenced by shame, fear, or lack of awareness. The problem is compounded by the fact that law enforcement often participates in or turns a blind eye toward these crimes.