Advocacy

The work for helping the victims of this heinous crime and also
creating social awareness continues through social, electronic and
print media, educational institutes, public and private forums
locally and internationally. Appeals are regularly made to
philanthropists, supporters and corporate heads to come forward
and help in reviving the lives of oppressed victims. Masarrat Misbah
is regularly invited by leading educational institutions, TV channels
and webinars, to project the women’s rights and issues relating to
violence against women. Many a times she is accompanied by
the survivors to narrate the sad incidents of violence leading to
acid burning.

During Ramazan special campaigns are launched for collection of
ration bags and donations for the welfare of the survivors.

In order to document and project the efforts of DSF,
documentaries have been produced locally and internationally.
BBC, National Geographic, Voice of America, Al Jazeera, Spanish
News Agency and NHK Japanese Broadcast are amongst the
leading international producers. (Details available in the links)

DSF Volunteers and Supporters

DSF Volunteers and supporters are a major asset to the
organization. By contributing time, energy and talents, volunteers
generate enthusiasm, increase public engagement, augment
fundraising efforts and complement the work of paid staff. DSF
volunteers belong to various professions including law, marketing,
media and public relations.

Milestone Achievements

Response to COVID-19

During the Spread of COVID-19, DSF Followed proper SOPs and maintained social distancing while implementing regular activities. Medical Treatment, psycho-social support workshops, vocational trainings and small business set ups continued along with participation in webinars as part of the advocacy campaign.

Most importantly burnt victims were educated about the precautionary measures that everyone must take during the pandemic. As an additional economic support DSF collected and provided rashan bags to the burnt victims and their families.

DSF also arranged vaccination of the burnt victims and its support staff. DSF regularly support and encourage students from educational institutes to write thesis on the issues highlighting violence against women.

The Acid Crime Prevention
Bill Passed

DSF has continuously highlighted the need for formulating a stronger law in support of domestic violence victims, suggesting speedy trials and severe punishment for criminals.

Along with other leading civil society partners, DSF was able to pursue the Government to make amendments in the existing laws especially acid and kerosene oil attacks. As a result of this hard work a bill was passed in December 2011 by the Senate. The Acid Control and Acid Crime Prevention Bill is an amendment in Pakistan Penal Code 1860.

Efforts in Formulation of Bill to control sale and purchase of acid and any other corrosive substance: 2020-2021

DSF in collaboration with Punjab Women Protection Authority (PWPA), Regional Directorate, Punjab: Ministry of Human Rights and Initiatives for Sustainable Development (IFSD) helped in formulating Legislation on Acid Control Bill to End Gender Based Violence and develop action plan to improve legislative framework and strengthen inclusive protection measures to promote gender equality and prevent acid violence against women.

Sindh Regulation for Storage, Sale and Purchase of Acid Rules, 2022

Masarrat Misbah as a representative of DSF; with an acid attack survivor filed a petition in Sindh High Court to regulate the storage and sale of acid to prevent acid crime. The counsel and the DSF team worked tirelessly towards this case and the petition was approved in November 2022. As this petition makes its way to other provinces, this win in Sindh is a first step towards an acid crime free Pakistan.

Together, we are reshaping narratives around acid attack survivors, fostering inclusivity, and advocating for social change. At Depilex Smileagain Foundation, we envision a world where every survivor is embraced by society and celebrated for their strength, resilience, and potential.

Media Gallery

We take immense pride in the incredible media coverage our
work has received, both locally and internationally. From powerful
documentaries to impactful interviews, our story has been shared
on leading platforms, amplifying the voices of survivors and raising
awareness about acid violence. This ongoing coverage reflects
the strength of our advocacy efforts and the importance of our
mission. Our media gallery stands as a testament to the
unwavering resilience of survivors and the collective power of
storytelling to inspire change.

We remain committed to keeping the conversation alive, reaching
more audiences, and driving impactful action for a safer, more
compassionate world.