UN Women Pakistan’s ‘Inkvisible’ campaign uses henna art to expose domestic violence scars

In a visual protest against domestic violence, UN Women Pakistan has reimagined traditional bridal henna to depict the hidden bruises of abused wives, launching its #Inkvisible campaign.

The campaign that began last month features bridal portraits where delicate henna patterns trace violent injuries instead of decorating hands – a black eye rendered in mehndi, finger marks circling a neck in intricate designs, and split lips adorned with floral motifs. This jarring juxtaposition of celebration and suffering forces viewers to confront what usually remains concealed behind closed doors.

The initiative comes as UN Women’s latest report reveals alarming statistics: 37 percent of married Pakistani women experience physical spousal abuse, while over 70 percent never seek help due to social stigma. This translates to approximately 1 in 3 women enduring violence during their lifetime.

Beyond awareness-raising, the campaign trains henna artists as community ambassadors. These artists now distribute special cones printed with domestic violence hotline numbers (0800-39393) and conduct pre-wedding sessions educating brides about their legal rights under Pakistan’s 2016 Anti-Domestic Violence laws.