By: Zara Amoon
International Women’s Day (IWD) is observed worldwide on March 8, celebrating women’s achievements and advocating for gender equality. In Pakistan, the occasion has gained momentum over the past decade, igniting discussions on women’s rights and highlighting both progress and persistent challenges. While the country has taken steps to improve women’s legal protections, deep-rooted societal norms, gender-based violence, and economic and political barriers continue to hinder their full participation in society.
Historically, Pakistani women have played a significant role in shaping the nation’s trajectory, from Fatima Jinnah’s contributions to the independence movement to Benazir Bhutto’s landmark election as the first female Prime Minister of a Muslim-majority country. However, progress has been inconsistent, often influenced by political regimes. The 1980s, under General Zia-ul-Haq’s military rule, saw the introduction of laws that curtailed women’s rights, while later governments introduced reforms addressing issues such as honor killings, workplace harassment, and domestic violence. Despite these legislative advances, gender disparities persist, necessitating continued efforts toward equality.
In recent years, International Women’s Day in Pakistan has become a powerful platform for advocacy. The Aurat March, launched in 2018, has emerged as a focal point of the movement, drawing thousands to the streets of major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar. Participants call for bodily autonomy, economic justice, and protection from gender-based violence. However, the march has also faced backlash from conservative factions, with opponents arguing that it challenges traditional cultural and religious values.
Pakistan has introduced several laws aimed at improving women’s rights. The Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act (2010) established mechanisms to address workplace misconduct, while the Acid Control and Acid Crime Prevention Act (2011) imposed stricter penalties for acid attacks. More recently, the Anti-Rape (Investigation and Trial) Act (2021) aimed to improve the prosecution of sexual violence cases. Additionally, the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, enacted in various provinces, seeks to protect women from abuse within households.
Beyond legal reforms, Pakistan has taken steps to increase women’s participation in politics, reserving 17% of parliamentary seats for female representatives. The country has also seen gradual improvements in female literacy and workforce participation, with women making inroads into medicine, engineering, journalism, and entrepreneurship. Social media and grassroots movements have further amplified awareness, with campaigns such as #MeToo encouraging survivors of harassment and abuse to speak out.
Despite these advancements, significant challenges remain. Gender-based violence continues to be a pressing issue, with cases of domestic abuse, honor killings, forced marriages, and sexual violence frequently reported. Many incidents go unpunished due to social stigma and weak law enforcement. Economically, women’s labor force participation remains one of the lowest in South Asia, with cultural barriers, mobility restrictions, and workplace harassment further limiting opportunities. Rural women, in particular, face obstacles in education, with poverty, early marriages, and lack of school infrastructure contributing to a persistent gender gap. Meanwhile, digital harassment and cyberstalking have emerged as growing concerns in an increasingly online world.
To address these challenges, activists and experts advocate for stronger enforcement of existing laws, faster legal proceedings in cases of violence, and expanded awareness campaigns. Economic empowerment initiatives, such as microfinance programs and vocational training, could help increase women’s financial independence. Ensuring safe workplaces, increasing female political representation, and improving access to education—particularly in rural areas—are also seen as critical steps toward gender equality. Additionally, calls for stricter cyber laws and digital literacy programs aim to protect women from online harassment.
International Women’s Day in Pakistan is not just a celebration but a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality. While progress has been made, the fight for women’s rights continues, requiring sustained efforts from the government, civil society, and individuals. Advocates emphasize that every step toward equality contributes to a more just and inclusive society, where women can live with dignity, freedom, and opportunity.