KARACHI:
Empowerment refers to increasing the spiritual, political, social and economic strength of individuals and communities. Empowering women is key for social and economic development. Unfortunately, the world is yet to fully integrate women, without discrimination, into the overall framework of systems and institutions — majorly because of the prevalent patriarchal system that puts men in control.
Regrettably, the plight of women in Pakistan remains far more deplorable. Apart from not being able to pave the path of their own lives, women are often forced into isolation while facing psychological and physical torture inside their own houses. Furthermore, being subjected to constant sexual harassment, a simple stroll outside for them becomes mentally draining, with eyes peering from every corner. This is no way for a human being to live. The current pandemic should evoke some empathy into the minds of men and parents alike of what it feels like living in isolation, cut off from the rest of society.
It is important for men to realise that without the participation of women Pakistan cannot achieve this target. It is high time for us to rid ourselves of our conservative mindset. Despite the difficulties that Pakistani women face, they still make enormous contributions to Pakistan’s economic growth. We must be proud of them and respect them. We must empower them.
Mehlab Bakhtiyar
Kech
Published in The Express Tribune, October 15th, 2020.
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