I am writing this letter to bring everyone’s attention to an issue that has long plagued our society but often goes unnoticed or unaddressed: the persistence of patriarchy in Pakistani society.
While modest progress has been made in various aspects of social development, the patriarchal mindset in society continues to hinder the growth and empowerment of women in our nation.
Patriarchy, a system of social organization characterized by male dominance, continues to influence and affect the lives of individuals as well as the communities in Pakistan.
Its impact is felt across various domains, including politics, education, employment, and even within the boundaries of households.
The patriarchal norms and values perpetuated by this system undermine the potential and contributions of women, hindering our collective progress as a nation.
In the politics of the country, women’s representation remains woefully low, with only a fraction of seats occupied by female parliamentarians. This under-representation not only limits diverse perspectives in decision-making but also sends a disheartening message to women aspiring to participate in power.
Despite constitutional guarantees and affirmative action measures, gender disparities persist in political representation, perpetuating the patriarchal status quo.
Education, often considered the bedrock of progress for a nation, also suffers under the negative influence of patriarchy. While efforts have been made to increase girls’ access to education, disparities in enrolment and alarming dropout rates still persist.
Societal expectations and stereotypes often limit educational opportunities for girls, reinforcing traditional gender roles. The gendered division of labor within households further exacerbates this disparity, as girls are expected to assume domestic responsibilities at the expense of their education.
Women, in the realm of work, face several challenges, including gender discrimination, unequal pay, limited opportunities for career advancement, and workplace harassment.
Patriarchal attitudes reinforce these injustices, stifling the full potential of women’s contributions to the economy and society at large. The burden of balancing professional and domestic responsibilities falls disproportionately on women, leading to limited opportunities for career advancement and hindering the economic growth of the nation at large.
Addressing the patriarchal underpinnings of our society requires a multifaceted approach involving legislative reforms, educational initiatives, and changes in cultural attitudes.
Policymakers must enact and enforce laws that protect women’s rights, promote gender equality, and eradicate gender-based injustices.
Furthermore, educational institutions and media outlets must play an active role in challenging gender stereotypes and promoting inclusive values for women from an early age.
By promoting awareness, advocating for women’s rights, and providing support services, we can collectively challenge the patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender inequality.
It is through the collective effort of individuals and institutions that we can pave the way for a more equitable and just society.
In conclusion, we must recognize and confront the persisting patriarchal mindset that hampers the progress of women in our society.
By: Laiba Mahmood (Lahore)