KARACHI, PK: The Global Gender Gap Index Report 2022 presents a concerning view of the
current status of women’s rights and empowerment in Pakistan. According to the report,
Pakistan ranked 145th in women’s economic participation and opportunity, 135th in women’s educational attainment, 143rd in women’s health and survival, and 95th in political empowerment out of 156 countries. Although women’s access to employment, education, property, and other opportunities is still lower than that of men, there are various areas of progress and strategic pathways to explore and accelerate momentum toward a more inclusive society.
One program that has contributed significantly to Pakistani women’s socio-economic
empowerment is the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). Since its launch in 2008, BISP
has become a leading program, providing financial aid to millions of vulnerable women. By
providing cash incentives and training programs, BISP has not only reduced poverty but has
also empowered women’s financial independence and decision-making ability in their
households.
Furthermore, investments in education have yielded promising outcomes. According to a
research article, Why invest in girls’ education? Evidence from the girl stipend program in
Pakistan, the Girls’ Stipend Programme (GSP), launched by the government in 2004, directly
impacted enrolment rates for girls. Initiatives like the Girls’ Education Initiative (GEI) and the
provision of stipends to girls from marginalized communities have played a pivotal role in
narrowing the gender gap in education. Moreover, skill development programs targeted towards women, such as vocational training and entrepreneurship courses, are equipping them with the necessary tools to thrive in diverse fields and contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth.
Pakistan has also taken significant steps to strengthen its legal and policy frameworks to promote gender equality and women’s rights. The passage of landmark legislation, including the Protection of Women Against Violence Act (2016) and the Criminal Law Amendment Act (2017), demonstrates the government’s commitment to combating gender-based violence and discrimination. However, effective implementation and enforcement remain critical challenges, requiring sustained efforts and collaboration between stakeholders.
Despite progress, Pakistan continues to grapple with persistent challenges hindering gender equality and women’s empowerment. Gender-based violence, limited access to healthcare, and discriminatory social norms pose formidable barriers to women’s full participation in society.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. By leveraging technology, fostering public-private partnerships, and promoting grassroots initiatives, Pakistan can address systemic inequalities and unlock the untapped potential of its women.
As Pakistan charts its course toward a more equitable future, it must harness the collective efforts of government, civil society, and the private sector to realize the vision of gender equality and women’s empowerment. By building on existing progress, addressing systemic challenges, and fostering an enabling environment, Pakistan can create a society where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to national development.
