KARACHI:
Despite the clear benefits of female participation in the workforce, the state of Pakistan has reduced its women to be child bearers and house makers. It seems that our culture has no room for self-critique. Those who have spoken out against female subjugation have been reprimanded by certain religious figures, but facts do not lie as facts are absolute.
It has been 70 years since independence and we have failed to uplift our female population in a true and meaningful way — the effects of which are harshest on the lower class. Despite constituting around 50% of the population, women form only 20% of the workforce in Pakistan. As observed in other countries, an increase in the total workforce is strongly correlated to an increase in the GDP. Wealth begets wealth and with an additional income stream, consumer spending will go up as well. Pakistan’s over reliance on child labour can also be addressed if more women are allowed to freely participate in the work force. This will go a long way in attracting foreign investors as well.
The state must actively promulgate laws that promote gender equality and ensure a respectful work culture for women. This can also be done through targeted subsidies, media awareness and by addressing security concerns. Most importantly, we, the people, must rid ourselves from our misogynistic mindset. Let our children grow up in a more inclusive Pakistan.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 18th, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
