Rethinking the glass ceiling

Women in the province of Balochistan continue to be exposed to certain tribal customs and traditions that inhibit the development of their talents and careers. For decades, reflecting just in modern times, there has been a vast disconnect between women’s education and their career growth, pertaining not only to Balochistan but inclusive of customs and traditions ubiquitously in the entire country. In the field of print journalism, an effective medium for advocating for women’s rights and discussing women’s issues, there is a dearth of women in Quetta and generally in all of Pakistan. One can find a similar pattern in other careers, such as medicine or banking. As we cross this century, an important marker of Pakistan’s progress will be the advancement of its women and their role in the greater fabric of society. The statistical pointers and research are there, advising that the participation of women in a country’s economy boosts the economy’s gross domestic product. We must take heed of this finding in order to achieve better growth.

To promote the participation of women in journalism and other fields more equally with their male counterparts, the factors that inhibit women from taking part must be eliminated. These include applying legal measures when it comes to harassment in the workplace to create safer environments for females. Fair contracts and salaries for women have long been advocated for globally with the world only now beginning to catch on, though still in a nascent stage. The most controllable factor in Pakistan, though a painstakingly difficult one, is changing people’s own mindsets that allow for cultural taboos and dogmas. The participation of women in journalism is particularly crucial to disseminate information and awareness about women’s issues. Considering these factors, there needs to be greater facilitation and incentivisation for women’s participation in journalism and families who choose to engage in medieval and primitive treatment towards their daughters should be dealt with through the prism of human rights.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 2^nd, 2017.

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