The status of woman in Pakistan is a source of enormous domestic and international interest, as well as a Social & Political controversy. The fact that women’s status is low by all social, economic, and political indicators has made it a subject of a great concern. The status of women in Pakistan varies considerably across classes, regions and rural urban divide due to uneven socio-economic development and the significant impact of tribal, feudal and capitalist social formation on woman’s life. Although there have been attempts by the government and enlighten groups to elevate the status of women in our society but on average situation is not well in Pakistan. There a woman is born to obey, not question. Her achievement lies in practicing an “exemplary life.” She is submissive to men, custom, and integrity. Women in Pakistan are fortified to pursue domestic roles. Reproduction and submissiveness are the basic qualities of any “good woman.” The family regulates the course of her life, eventually her destiny. Therefore matters of education, marriage and even reproductive rights are often determined on her part by those around her—parents, husband, etc. Those who object to these statutes are considered rebellious, disruptive and often morally wrong. A streak of independence stimulates chastisement and punishment from the family or system. This involves violence, ban from society and at times, murder. The disciplinary action is aimed at teaching women a lesson and discouraging the future generation from challenging traditionalism.
Income gap: 21%
Labor force participation (m/f): 86%/23%
Literacy rate (m/f): 69%/40%
Pct. women in parliament: 20%
Women in Pakistan are not considered part of the body-politick. Talking about their grievances can bring many private matters in public and shame to the family. They are discouraged from contributing in any decision-making exercise. The future generation of literate Pakistani urban women may contradict this claim and state that they are outnumbering men in grabbing better positions in college and school education. In large cities they are creating more competition for their male peers. This is true of a strong female class emerging in the urban societies, which is challenging the male-controlled agenda and voicing its aversion for unfair actions against women. But the fight is long and their number is still far from the right critical mass. Lack of education is still a big hurdle in the way of women‘s freedom. Illiteracy among women is prevalent in rural areas, whereas the situation in urban areas of Pakistan could hardly be termed encouraging.
Income gap: 21%
Labor force participation (m/f): 86%/23%
Literacy rate (m/f): 69%/40%
Pct. women in parliament: 20%
Women in Pakistan are not considered part of the body-politick. Talking about their grievances can bring many private matters in public and shame to the family. They are discouraged from contributing in any decision-making exercise. The future generation of literate Pakistani urban women may contradict this claim and state that they are outnumbering men in grabbing better positions in college and school education. In large cities they are creating more competition for their male peers. This is true of a strong female class emerging in the urban societies, which is challenging the male-controlled agenda and voicing its aversion for unfair actions against women. But the fight is long and their number is still far from the right critical mass. Lack of education is still a big hurdle in the way of women‘s freedom. Illiteracy among women is prevalent in rural areas, whereas the situation in urban areas of Pakistan could hardly be termed encouraging.