Ever since the creation of Pakistan, women have played a considerable role in the development of the society. Broadly categorized, women in Pakistan can be classified as housewives and working women. The role of women in general varies with class, rural-urban divide and region. Despite rising awareness, women in Pakistan in general have been subject to sexism and misogyny at some point in their life: Pakistan being a patriarchal society.
As per 2011 census, 49.9 of the total population represent women of working age; it is therefore essential for Pakistan to assure equal job opportunities to women, so as to assure the speedy development of Pakistan. For a progressive, prosperous Pakistan, it is essential to change the general perception of the society about women being subordinates to men. From Fatima Jinnah to Benazir Bhutto to Malala Yousafzai, women in Pakistan represent change in the socio-political dynamics of Pakistan. Let us not forget what Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, said: “No nation can rise to the height of glory unless your women are side by side with you” It is therefore time the State takes all the necessary steps to assure gender parity and women empowerment.
ANEELA AHMED
Lahore