How to leave an exploitative situation in Pakistan: a practical step-by-step guide.

This page is written for women in situations they didn't choose — controlled relationships, exploitative work, trafficked situations, or abusive homes — who want to leave but don't know how. Everything here is practical. No judgment.

Safety planning before you leave

Leaving is the most dangerous moment. Planning before leaving saves lives.

• Do not tell the person you're leaving until you are already gone or have protection in place
• Choose a safe time — when they are asleep, out, or distracted
• Have a bag ready — CNIC, any cash you can access, phone charger, any medications
• Know where you're going — a shelter address, a trusted family member, a friend they don't know
• Have a code with someone — a message that means "I need help now" to someone who knows to call police

What to take

• Your CNIC — if they've taken it, NADRA can reissue at any regional office with a police report
• Any cash or valuables you can safely take
• Your phone — but be aware it may be tracked. Buy a new SIM if possible.
• Medications
• Any documents (nikah nama, children's documents, property documents)

Where to go

• Dastak Foundation Lahore: 042-35761999 — will shelter you immediately, no questions, no fee
• Panah Shelter Karachi: 021-35362937
• Rozan Islamabad: 051-2890505
• Edhi Foundation: 115 — nationwide, 24/7, no questions
• Police Shelter Homes: available in all major cities via the Women's Protection Authority

Your legal rights in Pakistan

• You have the right to leave any relationship — marriage does not remove this right
• Shelters cannot turn you away or return you to someone without your consent
• Police are legally required to assist women seeking protection
• The Domestic Violence Act protects you with legal orders that prohibit contact
• If you were trafficked: you are the victim. You cannot be prosecuted for your own exploitation.